
Join a proudly independent practice where continuity of care, clinical freedom and genuine teamwork matter most. A lovely team of six vets, brilliant RVNs and supportive staff have built a culture worth being part of.
Currently 1:6 duty weekends (maximum 1:4). Own clients only. Saturday consults separate from duty weekends. Time off in lieu given for Saturdays worked. On-site accommodation available. Clinical director available for backup.
Riverside Veterinary Surgery is seeking a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join their tight-knit team in Bishopstoke, Hampshire. This is a full-time position on a four-day week (averaging around 36 hours), offering a genuine work-life balance with plenty of countryside and coast within easy reach, plus London just over an hour away by train.
You'll deliver a mix of consulting and surgery work, with at least one dedicated ops day per week. Consultations run to a comfortable 20-minute standard, and shifts vary between 8 to 4, 9 to 5, 9 to 7 and 11 to 7, with no more than two 7pm finishes per week. Out-of-hours commitments are manageable: currently 1 in 6 duty weekends (maximum 1:4), with Saturday consults separate from duty weekends and time off in lieu given for Saturdays worked. On-site accommodation is available if preferred, and a clinical director is on hand for backup.
The practice runs its own out-of-hours service for clients only and has deliberately built a culture around teamwork, case sharing, and supporting each other through busy days. The team even closes every Wednesday lunchtime for an hour and a half to eat together, run CPD sessions, or simply catch up with tea. It's protected time and one of their favourite traditions.
Riverside Veterinary Surgery has been established since 1976, operating as a proudly independent, privately owned practice in Bishopstoke. They provide an excellent standard of veterinary care in a relaxed and friendly environment, tailoring individual protocols and treatments for clients and their pets. The practice offers 24-hour care via their own out-of-hours service and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for rapid diagnosis and treatment.
The team comprises five veterinary surgeons (with this hire), each supported by highly trained nurses. While primarily small animal focused, they also provide equine services to the wider area. The practice is located on the main road between Eastleigh and Fair Oak, with easy access from Botley, Hedge End, Southampton and Winchester. Preventative care is central to their philosophy, and the practice is known for building strong, lasting relationships with its clients.