Registered Veterinary Nurse

About the Role

Dogs Trust is seeking a Registered Veterinary Nurse to join the veterinary team at its Salisbury rehoming centre. This is a part-time fixed-term position working 15 hours per week, providing excellent work-life balance while supporting vital animal welfare work. You'll be part of a rehoming centre caring for around 14,000 dogs across the UK's network of 21 centres, all guided by Dogs Trust's non-destruction policy.

This family leave cover contract runs until January 2027. You'll work closely with the centre team to deliver exceptional veterinary care and help ensure dogs in our care receive the support they need before finding their forever homes.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide routine veterinary care and maintain clinical protocols within the rehoming centre
• Assist with the transfer of dogs to and from local veterinary surgeries
• Deliver post-surgery care and monitor patient recovery
• Act as a point of contact for veterinary assistance enquiries from centre staff
• Provide informal training to centre team members to ensure veterinary protocols are followed
• Handle dogs according to Dogs Trust guidelines using positive reinforcement techniques

Requirements

• Current Registered Veterinary Nurse qualification
• Experience of working in a rehoming or charity establishment (desirable but not essential)
• Ability to handle dogs with empathy and use positive reinforcement techniques
• Commitment to high standards of patient care and customer service
• Full, clean UK driving licence
• Understanding of and appreciation for dog welfare principles

Benefits

• Part-time hours (15 hours per week) offering excellent work-life balance
• Fixed-term contract until January 2027 (family leave cover)
• Work for the UK's leading dog charity with a non-destruction policy
• Full induction provided
• Supportive, inclusive workplace culture with colleague networks and diversity initiatives

About the Practice

Dogs Trust is the UK's largest dog welfare charity, operating 21 rehoming centres across the UK plus one in Dublin. The organisation cares for around 14,000 dogs and has maintained a strict non-destruction policy since its founding in 1891, ensuring no healthy dog is put to sleep. The charity combines direct animal care with education and support for dog owners to prevent problem behaviours and unnecessary relinquishment.

Dogs Trust is committed to fostering an inclusive culture and actively welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, abilities, and cultures. The organisation values diversity and provides support throughout the recruitment process.