Veterinary Receptionist

About the Role

This part-time receptionist position offers 24.5 hours per week across a two-site mixed animal practice. You’ll work primarily at the main Fordingbridge surgery (Monday and Tuesday 8:30 am–6:30 pm, Friday 8:30 am–2 pm), with occasional shifts at the Cranborne branch. The role includes occasional Saturday morning cover on a shared basis within the team.

Pilgrims Vets is based in the beautiful New Forest—a location rich with scenic walks and countryside—and just 30 minutes from the stunning south coast beaches. The practice handles a genuine mix of species: dogs, cats, small furries, chickens, goats, alpacas, lambs, and horses, with vets also attending visits outside the practice.

Key Responsibilities

• Greet clients and their pets warmly on arrival
• Manage appointment diaries efficiently: booking, cancelling, rearranging appointments, and processing online bookings
• Maintain accurate client records and handle repeat prescription requests
• Process payments and cash up at the end of each shift
• Support general administration as needed
• Work collaboratively with a team of 7 vets, 4 registered veterinary nurses, and 2 trainee nurses

Requirements

• Enthusiasm and self-motivation with a genuine passion for client care
• Calm, compassionate, and professional approach—essential for emotionally sensitive situations
• Prior reception experience (ideally veterinary, but not essential—training will be provided)
• Excellent communication skills and ability to build strong client relationships
• Pride in delivering a high standard of service

Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £17,000 DOE
• 6.6 weeks annual leave
• Additional leave on your birthday
• Enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and surrogacy pay)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Employee wellbeing initiatives
• Non-accidental injury support
• Learning and development via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pawsome Benefits—reward gateway with discounts and cashback from hundreds of retailers
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care

About the Practice

Pilgrims Vets operates two complementary sites in the New Forest area. The main Fordingbridge branch is equipped with digital X-ray, dental radiography, ultrasound, IDEXX blood analyser, the newly invested VETSCAN IMAGYST laboratory equipment, digital endoscope, and new equine dental equipment. The Cranborne branch houses comprehensive surgical facilities. Together, the practices serve a close-knit community and are part of the IVC Evidensia group.

The team describes itself as close-knit and social, enjoying both professional collaboration and social outings. The client base is characterised as very friendly, and the practice is accredited as Rabbit Friendly and Chicken Friendly.