
Join a bright, supportive small animal practice in Bedford where excellent work-life balance is genuine, not a promise. Full-time role with no OOH shifts, 1-in-4 Saturdays, and genuine flexibility.
1-in-4 Saturday shifts (9am to 5pm); no overnight on-call or out-of-hours duties
This is a full-time veterinary surgeon position based at Companion Care's purpose-built Bedford practice. You'll work three days per week (Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 9.5 hours each) plus one Saturday in four (9am to 5pm), with no overnight on-call duties. Average hours work out to 30.4 per week over a four-week cycle.
The practice specialises in small animal medicine and surgery, with particular interest in advanced techniques. You'll see a diverse caseload including dogs, cats, rabbits and exotic animals across medical and surgical presentations. Fifteen-minute standard consultation slots give you proper time with clients. The team has recently introduced laparoscopic spays as part of their commitment to advanced surgical techniques, and visiting specialists provide ophthalmology and orthopaedic/advanced soft tissue surgery support. A keen interest in surgery or imaging would be welcomed but isn't essential.
Bedford itself benefits from excellent transport links to London, nearby countryside, Woburn Safari Park and Milton Keynes, plus the practice offers free parking. The location is ideal for balancing career ambitions with genuine lifestyle quality.
Companion Care's Bedford location is an RCVS-accredited small animal practice offering comprehensive surgical and medical services. The practice holds Silver Feline Friendly and Rabbit Friendly accreditations and is equipped with digital X-ray, ultrasound, in-house laboratory and haematology/biochemistry facilities, plus isolation provision. The team has won Customer Service and Sustainability Practice Standard Awards and holds Bronze accreditation in Sustainability with Investors in the Environment.
The practice is part of Vets for Pets, a group that provides clinical freedom alongside corporate support and benefits. The team is diverse in clinical interests, ranging from preventive wellness to exotic medicine, and actively encourages staff development and CPD.