Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

This small animal Veterinary Surgeon role at Christopher Carter Vets in Southampton combines a varied GP caseload with a rota built around a four-day week. Salary is up to £75,000 DOE, with a welcome bonus of up to £5,000 and relocation allowance up to £5,000.

The caseload is mostly cats and dogs, with rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and the occasional chicken also seen. There is a slight bias towards consultations, a number of emergency cases, and some dental work, so this could suit a vet who enjoys relationships, continuity of care and consult work. Consult-only vets are also being considered.

The practice is based just outside Shirley and includes an in-house lab, X-ray with dental X-ray, ultrasound, ECG, multiparameters and diathermy. There are also links to two nearby referral hospitals for additional support when needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out first opinion small animal work across a mainly consult-led GP caseload.
• Manage routine consultations, emergency cases and dental work.
• Work with a team that includes vets, RVNs, SVNs, receptionists and the Director of Practice/RVN.
• Provide care for cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, rats and occasional chickens.
• Take part in 1:4 Saturday morning cover from 9am to 12pm on a sole-charge basis.

Requirements

• Veterinary Surgeon for a small animal practice.
• Interest in dentistry is beneficial but not essential.
• Consult-only vets will be considered.

Benefits

• Salary up to £75,000 per annum, depending on experience.
• Welcome bonus of up to £5,000.
• Relocation allowance of up to £5,000.
• Full-time role over four days, with part-time applicants working 30+ hours per week also considered.
• 1:4 Saturday mornings, 9am to 12pm, on a sole-charge basis.
• £1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet.
• CPD allowance and access to IVC Academy training centres and role-relevant courses.
• Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches and peer networks.
• 6.6 weeks' holiday including bank holidays.
• Private medical insurance.
• Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy.
• BVA membership, VDS cover and RCVS fees.
• Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes, subject to eligibility.
• Retail discounts and cashback offers.
• Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets.

About the Practice

Christopher Carter Vets is part of IVC Evidensia and has been established for over 45 years. The team says it values continuity of care, long-standing client relationships and a supportive, close-knit culture.

The practice is located at 224 Winchester Road, Shirley, Southampton, SO16 6TL. It treats dogs, cats and small pets, and is described as exotic friendly.