Animal Care Assistant

About the Role

You'll be at the heart of Wilton House Vets' clinical operations, providing hands-on support to the team as they deliver specialist surgical care to small animals. This is a part-time role working 32 hours over 5 days, including Saturday mornings on a 1-in-4 rota. The practice is conveniently located near Guisborough town centre and offers a modern, well-equipped environment where high standards of patient care are the priority. The practice provides a full range of services to dogs, cats, small pets, and exotic animals, underpinned by modern treatments and equipment. You'll work within a collaborative team culture where both initiative and teamwork are equally valued.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the clinical team in delivering specialist surgical procedures
• Assist in the operating theatre and with in-patient care
• Handle and assist animals safely during procedures and treatments
• Maintain sterile supplies—cleaning, packaging, and sterilising surgical instruments and implants
• Keep the practice environment clean, hygienic, and safe for patients, staff, and clients
• Work alongside Registered Veterinary Nurses and Veterinary Surgeons
• Demonstrate initiative while contributing positively to team goals

Requirements

• A reliable, motivated approach to work with a genuine interest in animal welfare
• Caring and professional manner with clients and colleagues
• Good communication skills and ability to collaborate in a busy environment
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• Proactive attitude to learning, with openness to feedback and development

Benefits

• 6.6 weeks' annual leave (full-time equivalent), plus additional birthday leave
• Leave increases with length of service
• Enhanced family-friendly policies (maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental, and surrogacy pay)
• Healthcare Cash Plan
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Structured development opportunities and apprenticeships via IVC Evidensia Academy
• Pension scheme
• Discounted staff pet care
• Voluntary benefits and access to hundreds of participating retailer discounts

About the Practice

Wilton House Veterinary Clinic is a full-service small animal practice in Guisborough, North East England, providing comprehensive veterinary care with a focus on modern treatments and specialist surgical procedures. The practice is part of IVC Evidensia, the UK and Europe's leading veterinary care group, comprising over 900 practices and referral hospitals united by a shared commitment to happier animals and happier owners. IVC Evidensia invests significantly in supporting team development, wellbeing, and career progression without limits. The culture emphasises learning, innovation, and creating environments where teams can grow in confidence and capability at every career stage.