Equine Veterinary Surgeon

About the Role

Rufford Veterinary Group is expanding its ambulatory equine practice and seeking an enthusiastic Equine Veterinary Surgeon to join a supportive 4-vet team based in West Lancashire. You’ll serve a diverse client base ranging from competition and racehorses to pleasure horses, working across the Northwest region. This flexible role is available full-time or part-time, and participation in the OOH rota is expected.

The practice operates a well-equipped yard clinic facility for in-depth examinations, procedures, and treatment, and is actively introducing nurse-led clinics to expand service offerings. Three of the vets hold certificates, and you’ll be supported by a dedicated equine veterinary nurse and yard assistant.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide first-opinion equine veterinary care across all disciplines
• Conduct ambulatory visits to clients throughout the Northwest region
• Perform procedures and treatments at the yard clinic facility, including digital radiography, ultrasonography, gastroscopy, laser surgery, ESWT, acupuncture, and reproductive services
• Contribute to the shared OOH rota alongside the 4-vet team
• Support the development of nurse-led clinic services
• Engage in continued learning and CPD opportunities

Requirements

• Qualified veterinary surgeon registered with the RCVS
• Experience in equine first-opinion practice
• Motivated, compassionate approach to equine medicine
• Willingness to participate in the shared OOH rota
• Professional registration and good standing

Benefits

• Salary: Up to £65,000 depending on experience, plus £5,000 welcome bonus and £5,000 relocation allowance
• Leave: 6.6 weeks annual leave (pro rata), inclusive of bank holidays, plus additional holiday for your birthday
• CPD & Development: £1,250 annual CPD allowance with 40 hours paid CPD leave (pro rata); certificate support; access to IVC Evidensia Academy and Vetlexicon online resource; research funding opportunities
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Insurance; 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme; enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity/paternity/adoption/shared parental/surrogacy pay)
• Professional Support: BVA membership, VDS cover, and RCVS fees covered
• Pension: Company pension scheme with employer contribution
• Additional Perks: Cycle to Work scheme and Green Cars Scheme; voluntary benefits package; discounts/cashback with retailers; discounted pet treatment at IVC Evidensia practices; £1,250 annual Care Fund allocation

About the Practice

Rufford Veterinary Group, located at Oak Villa in Ormskirk, North West, is an established ambulatory equine practice serving West Lancashire and the broader Northwest region. The practice combines traditional first-opinion care with modern clinical facilities, supporting everything from competition horses to racehorses and pleasure animals. With three certificate-holding vets, strong nursing support, and a commitment to professional development, the team fosters a progressive, supportive environment.

The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, a leading veterinary healthcare group committed to diversity, equality, inclusion, and supporting colleagues’ wellbeing. As a Disability Confident Employer, they actively welcome applications from candidates with disabilities and long-term health conditions and offer reasonable adjustments during recruitment.