Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

River Veterinary Care is an independent practice founded three years ago with a mission to make veterinary medicine genuinely enjoyable. Based in Ponteland, near Newcastle, the practice has built a loyal client base and is known locally for excellent patient and client care. This is a full-time role across 4 days per week (8:30 am to 6 pm, with part-time also considered), plus 1 in 3 Saturday mornings—and importantly, no out-of-hours or overnight commitments.

You’ll be joining a small, close-knit team where collaboration and clinical curiosity are at the heart of everything. The practice is led by founder Alex (Certificate in Small Animal Surgery) and Sarah (nearing completion of her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine), supported by an experienced RVN team who are actively involved in case management, clinics, and advanced procedures. This is an environment where you’ll manage cases from initial consultation through diagnostics, treatment, and surgery, with genuine autonomy and a team genuinely keen to discuss and collaborate.

Whether you’re looking to build surgical confidence, develop a particular clinical interest, or pursue a certificate, your learning and professional development will be actively supported. The practice regularly undertakes advanced procedures including orthopaedics, BOAS surgery, and laparoscopic work, and accepts referrals from local practices.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage small animal consultations and clinical cases independently, from initial assessment through diagnostics and treatment planning
• Perform routine and advanced surgical procedures including orthopaedics, BOAS surgery, and laparoscopic techniques
• Work collaboratively with Alex and Sarah on case management, clinical decision-making, and procedure planning
• Contribute to the practice’s specialist referral work, accepting cases from local practitioners
• Conduct Saturday morning clinics on a 1 in 3 rotation (9 am to 12 pm)
• Engage with the nursing team to deliver integrated patient care, with RVNs running clinics, supporting procedures, and managing inpatient and wound care
• Participate in the collaborative, supportive practice culture through open communication and shared clinical discussion

Requirements

• Completed VetGDP (veterinary graduate development programme)
• Confident with routine consultations and surgical procedures
• Enthusiasm for clinical development and collaborative working
• Experience is preferred but flexibility considered for the right candidate

Benefits

• Salary: £55,000–£70,000 depending on experience
• 6.6 weeks annual leave
• Professional fees paid (RCVS & VDS)
• CPD funding and active support for certificate study
• Christmas bonus
• Pension scheme
• Staff discount
• Free parking
• Relocation package available
• Team socials and supportive workplace culture

About the Practice

River Veterinary Care was founded three years ago on the principle that veterinary medicine should be thoughtful, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable to practise. The practice operates from a purpose-built clinic designed to support excellent patient care and professional development. Facilities include digital and dental radiography with bucky table, advanced ultrasound (cardiac capable), full endoscopy and gastroscopy, a laparoscopic surgical tower, extensive orthopaedic equipment, in-house laboratory with blood gas analysis, heated kennels, and modern theatre facilities. The practice also benefits from visiting specialists in orthopaedics, ultrasonography, and cardiology, allowing the team to manage the majority of cases in-house while maintaining continuity of care.

The team—led by founder Alex, supported by Sarah, an experienced practice manager (Jo), and skilled RVNs—is genuinely supportive and collaborative. Team members are valued, professional development is embedded in everyday practice, and the practice culture celebrates success. Located in Ponteland just outside Newcastle, the area offers village community feel with quick access to city life, coastline, countryside, and Northumberland’s outdoor spaces.