Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon

J oin a modern independent practice where clinical freedom really means something.

River Veterinary Care was founded three years ago with a clear vision — to create a practice where veterinary medicine is thoughtful, collaborative, and genuinely enjoyable to practise.

Led by founder Alex, River Vets has grown into a thriving independent small animal practice serving Ponteland and the wider Northumberland community. Built from the ground up, the practice combines modern facilities with a close-knit team and a working environment shaped by collaboration, clinical curiosity, and continuity of care.

Today, River Vets has developed a loyal client base and is known locally for excellent patient and client care. As the practice continues to grow, we are now looking for an experienced Veterinary Surgeon to join us and help shape the next stage of our journey.

Our Team & Culture

We have a genuinely supportive culture where communication is open, ideas are shared freely, and everyone contributes to shaping how the practice continues to evolve. We celebrate successes, organise team socials (from Christmas gatherings to occasionally competitive inflatable obstacle courses!), and people stay because they enjoy both the work and the team around them.

Alex holds a Certificate in Small Animal Surgery, and Sarah is nearing completion of her Certificate in Small Animal Medicine, allowing us to manage a varied and rewarding caseload. Alongside GP consultations, we regularly undertake advanced procedures, including orthopaedics, BOAS surgery, and laparoscopic procedures. The majority of our spays are performed laparoscopically, and we also accept referrals from local practices.

Our experienced nursing team plays a central role in practice life. RVNs are actively involved in patient care — running clinics, supporting procedures, and managing inpatient and wound care — creating a collaborative environment where everyone works together to achieve the best outcomes for patients.

Learning and professional development are embedded in everyday practice. Clinical interests, certificates, and postgraduate study are actively supported, helping both individual growth and the practice’s ongoing development.

Above all, River Veterinary Care aims to be a place where people feel supported, valued, and able to practise veterinary medicine to the very best of their ability.

What Our Team Says About Working at River Vets

“River Vets is a fantastic place to work, with a friendly and supportive team who genuinely look out for one another. There is a strong focus on collaboration and maintaining high standards of patient care, while also ensuring that clients feel welcome and well-supported. It’s a positive environment where both staff and patients are valued.” Katie RVN

“A truly fabulous vet practice to work for! The supportive and friendly team, along with such lovely clients and their wonderful pets, make every day enjoyable and rewarding. I feel incredibly grateful to be part of such a dedicated and amazing team.” Jo, Practice Manager

The Practice

Our purpose-built clinic is designed to support both excellent patient care and professional development. Equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic and surgical facilities and supported by visiting specialists in orthopaedics, ultrasonography, and cardiology, we can manage the majority of cases in-house while ensuring continuity of care for our patients and clients.

Facilities include:

• Digital & dental radiography (with bucky table)
• Advanced ultrasound (cardiac capable)
• Full endoscopy & gastroscopy
• Laparoscopic surgical tower
• Extensive orthopaedic kit
• In-house laboratory with blood gas analysis
• Heated Casco kennels & modern theatre facilities

About The Role

We are looking for an enthusiastic, experienced Veterinary Surgeon who has completed their VetGDP and is confident with routine consultations and surgery.

This role offers genuine clinical autonomy, managing cases from initial consultation through diagnostics, treatment, and surgery, supported by experienced vets and a highly skilled nursing team.

You will benefit from:

• 20-minute consultations as standard
• Clinical freedom to work cases up thoroughly
• Supportive colleagues keen to discuss and collaborate on cases
• A nursing team empowered to use their skills fully
• A focus on excellent patient care rather than production targets

Whether you are looking to build surgical confidence, develop a particular clinical interest, or pursue a certificate, your learning and professional development will be actively supported.

Rota & Working Pattern

We aim to provide a working pattern that supports both clinical fulfilment and life outside of work.

• Full-time role across 4 days per week (8.30 am to 6 pm) – part-time also considered
• 1 in 3 Saturday morning consults (9 am to 12 pm)
• No out-of-hours commitments
• No overnight inpatient responsibility
• Protected lunch breaks and time for administration and case follow-up
• Flexible working patterns considered for the right candidate

We Offer:

• Salary from £55,000 to £70,000, depending on experience
• 6.6 weeks annual leave
• Certificates and CPD are actively encouraged and funded
• Relocation package available if required
• Professional fees paid for RCVS & VDS
• Christmas bonus & team socials
• Company pension
• Staff discount
• Free parking

Life in Ponteland

Located just outside Newcastle upon Tyne, Ponteland offers the best of both worlds — a welcoming village community with quick access to city life, coastline and countryside. Northumberland’s beaches, walking routes and outdoor spaces are all within easy reach, making it an ideal place to settle, whether relocating or already local to the area.

Join River Veterinary Care

River Vets is still young enough for new team members to shape its future, yet established enough to offer stability, excellent facilities and a loyal client base.

If you’re looking for an independent practice where you can develop your interests and feel part of something genuinely collaborative, we’d love to hear from you.

Call us for an informal chat or apply now.