Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

British Veterinary Association; Norwich; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading veterinary practice in Norwich is seeking a Veterinary Surgeon to join their well-equipped hospital. This role offers a balanced caseload of consulting and surgery, with opportunities for professional development and a supportive team environment. The position includes a competitive salary and relocation allowance, with flexible working patterns to promote work-life balance.

Benefits

6.6 weeks annual leave

Extra holiday for your birthday

Private Medical Insurance

24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

£1250 CPD allowance

Company pension scheme

Cycle to Work scheme

Pet treatment discounts

Qualifications

• Qualified Veterinary Surgeon with a degree.
• Experience in surgery and consulting required.
• Interest in emergency and critical care preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform surgical procedures and consultations for small animals.
• Manage emergency and critical care cases.
• Collaborate with a large nursing team for high-quality care.

Skills

Surgery

Consulting

Emergency and Critical Care (ECC)

Education

Veterinary Degree

Job description

Salary up to £65,000 DOE and up to £3,000 relocation allowance

Are you a Veterinary Surgeon seeking a new opportunity in a thriving, well-equipped hospital that supports your professional development and values your individuality? At Taverham Veterinary Hospital in Norfolk, we offer just that. Our large, purpose-built hospital is located just outside Norwich and is dedicated to small animal care. As a busy and well-established site, we provide a stimulating and supportive environment for your clinical skills to flourish.

Modern Facilities, Purpose-Built for Quality Care

Our hospital features seven consultation rooms, two dental suites, two operating theatres, a procedures room, and an advanced imaging suite with digital x-ray and a CT scanner. We have separate wards for inpatients and day patients, an isolation unit, ISFM Gold cat kennels, and dedicated waiting areas and kennels for dogs and cats. Diagnostic capabilities include endoscopy (flexible and rigid), ultrasound with Doppler, dental x-ray, tonometry, a slit lamp, and a comprehensive in-house lab with IDEXX machines and EPOC for out-of-hours diagnostics. Our dispensary is supported by a skilled pharmacy team, and staff facilities include a break area and meeting space.

A Varied and Rewarding Caseload

We mainly treat dogs and cats but also see rabbits and small furries. The role offers a balanced split between consulting and surgery, with a weekly structure designed for continuity of care and follow-up. We encourage high standards in case work and support tailoring caseloads to your interests and specialisms. Surgical duties range from routine procedures like laparoscopic spays and neutering to complex soft tissue surgeries, lump removals, and enterectomies. As the out-of-hours provider for 24 local practices, we handle emergency and critical care cases, making this an excellent role for those interested in ECC.

While primarily based at our main hospital in Taverham, occasional support at our branches in Longwater (with a hydrotherapy treadmill and cat hotel) and Aylsham may be required. These branches are well integrated, and teamwork ensures consistent, collaborative care.

Supportive Team Environment

You will be supported by an exceptional nursing team of 42 RVNs, 4 SVNs, 6 ANAs, and 2 HVNs, working collaboratively to provide high-quality inpatient care and support. Our nurses undertake responsibilities such as blood sampling, x-rays, pre- and post-op care, discharges, and nurse-led consults. The wider team includes a practice manager, office staff, receptionists, and 35 support staff, all working to ensure smooth practice operations.

A Practice That Gives Back

We have strong relationships with local and national charities, including Street Vet, Greyhound Home Finders, RSPCA, and Cats Protection. Supporting our community is a core value.

Career Development and Team Culture

We prioritize professional development, with many team members holding certificates in areas such as cardiology, diagnostic imaging, small animal medicine, feline medicine, surgery, ECC, and dentistry. We support those pursuing certificates or transferring programs. Our team of 32 vets benefits from a wide range of in-house expertise, allowing us to manage complex cases internally, ensuring continuity and learning opportunities.

We believe a happy, connected team delivers the best outcomes. We hold monthly communication days and enjoy social events, marathons, and other activities to foster team spirit and professional growth.

Work-Life Balance

We offer flexible working patterns, including four-day weeks, late shifts, and weekend rotas with days off. Participation in out-of-hours rotations can be discussed, and accommodations can be made based on individual circumstances.

About Our Local Area

Norwich is a vibrant, historic city blending culture, countryside, and coast, with charming streets, markets, and rich heritage. The surrounding Norfolk countryside, including the Broads and beaches, offers excellent leisure opportunities. Norwich provides a high quality of life with good transport links and a welcoming community.

Our Commitment to Our People

We value our team and offer competitive benefits, including:

Work-life balance

• 6.6 weeks annual leave, including bank holidays
• Extra holiday for your birthday

Wellbeing

• Private Medical Insurance
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Wellbeing initiatives

Development

• £1250 CPD allowance with paid CPD leave
• Support for certificates and training via the IVC Evidensia Academy
• Access to Vetlexicon
• Research funding opportunities
• Care Fund for vets
• Infection Control and Quality Improvement programs

Professional Memberships

• BVA membership
• VDS cover
• RCVS fees

Colleague Benefits

• Company pension scheme with contributions from IVC Evidensia
• Cycle to Work and Green Cars schemes
• Voluntary benefits and retail discounts
• Pet treatment discounts at our practices