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Current Vacancies at XLVet Practices

  • Exciting Opportunity for a Small Animal Vet - Bishopton Vets, North Yorkshire

    Join the team at Bishopton Vets
    Bishopton Vets is a friendly, supportive, independent practice in North Yorkshire where veterinary professionals can grow, have fun, and deliver exceptional care.
    About Bishopton Vets
    When Bishopton Vets first opened its doors in 1943, it was a small practice serving rural North Yorkshire. More than 80 years later, it has become one of the region’s largest independent practices yet its heart has not changed. The practice remains rooted in its community, guided by its values, and proudly independently owned and run.
    The RCVS‑accredited veterinary hospital in Ripon serves as the central hub for the farm and pig teams and provides 24/7 emergency care for pet owners. Supported by four welcoming branch surgeries in Thirsk, Northallerton, Easingwold, and Pateley Bridge, the hospital also offers advanced referral services, including orthopaedics, soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, cardiology, ophthalmology, and laparoscopy.
    The team brings together Advanced Practitioners, RVNs, student nurses, and support staff working collaboratively to deliver exceptional veterinary care while maintaining a down‑to‑earth Yorkshire spirit.
    Within the small animal department, Bishopton Vets holds ISFM Gold Cat Friendly Clinic status and Zero Pain accreditation, reflecting a commitment to excellence, comfort, and the highest standards of care for every patient.
    What makes Bishopton Vets special?
    The practice lives its values every day. Its CARES vision guides all activity: Clinical Excellence, Adaptability, Respect, Education, and Sustainability.
    Clinical excellence & support
    A 16‑strong FTE small animal vet team, including RCVS Advanced Practitioners and certificate holders in small animal surgery (soft tissue & orthopaedics), feline medicine, chronic pain management & acupuncture, and small animal practice.
    Strong support for ongoing professional development, with mentorship, training, and access to the latest techniques and best practices.
    Regular journal clubs, clinical governance meetings, case discussions, and clinical club sessions to share knowledge and continually improve outcomes.
    Excellent facilities and equipment, including upgraded ultrasound, laparoscopy, video endoscopy, an in‑house laboratory, and a fortnightly visiting CT service.
    Culture & community
    Life at Bishopton Vets isn’t all work; the team enjoys Bishy Bingo nights, quiz evenings, bowling trips, charity runs, and craft clubs. Each summer, the practice joins Ripon’s St Wilfrid’s Procession, choosing a theme, designing a float, and getting creative with costumes (past highlights include pirates and Oompa Loompas). Many team members stay for years because this is more than a workplace it’s a community.
    Bishopton Vets is a proud member of XLVets a nationwide community of independently owned, progressive practices that collaborate to share expertise, raise standards, and support their teams.
    Independence matters
    Independent ownership gives the practice the freedom to make decisions together as a team, shaping services to benefit patients, clients, and colleagues. When something tough arrives such as an emergency RTA with limited funds the team simply focuses on doing the right thing.
    Living in Ripon
    On the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and Moors, Ripon is surrounded by stunning countryside for walking, cycling, and exploring. Harrogate and York are within easy reach, and the local grammar school enjoys an excellent reputation.
    Testimonials
    The role
    This position suits someone seeking variety, teamwork, and the chance to grow clinically while enjoying an excellent quality of life outside work.
    Bishopton Vets is looking for a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join the team. Some post‑graduate experience is ideal, but the essentials are passion, motivation, and a desire to develop within a supportive, forward‑thinking practice.
    This is a day role, primarily based at the Ripon hospital with opportunities to spend time in the branches—combining the buzz of a hospital caseload with the quieter, community feel of smaller sites.
    Working pattern: 4‑day week
    Weekends: Currently 1:5 with a day off in lieu
    Flexible options: Part‑time applications are welcome
    Bishopton Vets runs its own out‑of‑hours service, ensuring true case continuity for patients and clients. A blended rota provides cover via dedicated night vets and members of the day team who value the experience of varied night‑time caseloads.
    What Bishopton Vets offers
    Salary of £35,000–£60,000 DOE
    31 days’ holiday including bank holidays (pro rata)
    CPD: Annual allowance of £2,000 (or £2,500 if AP) + 5 days (pro rata), with certificates encouraged and supported
    Professional fees paid for RCVS, VDS, BVA, plus one other membership
    Access to private medical insurance and a medical cash plan
    Pension scheme – the People’s Pension (5% employee and 3% employer contributions)
    Perkbox rewards, recognition, and discounts
    Wellbeing initiatives, including access to an Employee Assistance Programme
    Team pet discount scheme
    One paid volunteering day per year
    Cycle to Work scheme
    Above all, a truly supportive and social team
    Full or part-time applications welcome.
    If this sounds like the right fit for you then please apply with your CV and covering letter to Sam Milner at careers@bishoptonvets.co.uk
     

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  • Out of Hours Small Animal Vet Vacancy - Bishopton Vets, North Yorkshire

    Bishopton Vets is seeking an Out of Hours Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join its dedicated OOH team. The role is based at the practice’s RCVS-accredited hospital in Ripon, supported by four additional small animal branches located in Thirsk, Northallerton, Easingwold, and Pateley Bridge.
    About Bishopton Vets
    Bishopton Vets first opened its doors in 1943 as a small practice serving rural North Yorkshire. More than 80 years later, it has grown into one of the region’s largest independent veterinary practices, while remaining true to its roots. The practice continues to be guided by its core values and is proud to be independently owned and run.
    The RCVS-accredited veterinary hospital in Ripon serves as the central hub for the farm and pig teams and provides 24/7 emergency care for pet owners. This hospital is supported by four additional small animal branches located in Thirsk, Northallerton, Easingwold, and Pateley Bridge. The hospital also offers advanced referral services, including orthopaedics, soft tissue surgery, ultrasound, cardiology, ophthalmology, and laparoscopy.
    The team comprises Advanced Practitioners, Registered Veterinary Nurses (RVNs), student nurses, and support staff, all working together to deliver exceptional veterinary care while maintaining a friendly, down-to-earth Yorkshire approach. The small animal department is proud to hold ISFM Gold Cat Friendly Clinic status and Zero Pain accreditation, reflecting a commitment to excellence, comfort, and the highest standards of care for every patient.
    What makes Bishopton Vets special?
    The practice lives by its CARES vision: Clinical Excellence, Adaptability, Respect, Education, and Sustainability. These values underpin everything the team does.
    Clinical excellence and support
    A 16-strong FTE small animal vet team, including RCVS Advanced Practitioners and certificate holders in small animal surgery (soft tissue and orthopaedics), feline medicine, chronic pain management and acupuncture, and small animal practice.
    Full support for ongoing professional development, including mentorship, training, and access to the latest techniques and best practices.
    Regular journal clubs, clinical governance meetings, case discussions, and clinical club sessions to share knowledge and continually improve outcomes.
    Excellent facilities and equipment, including upgraded ultrasound, laparoscopy, video endoscopy, an in-house laboratory, and a fortnightly visiting CT service.
    Culture and community
    Life at Bishopton Vets is about more than work. The team enjoys social activities such as quiz nights, bowling trips, charity runs, and craft clubs. Each summer, the practice takes part in Ripon’s St Wilfrid’s Procession, creating themed floats and costumes. Many team members have been with the practice for years, thanks to its strong sense of community.
    Bishopton Vets is a proud member of XLVets, a nationwide network of independently owned practices that share expertise, improve standards, and support their teams.
    Independence matters
    Being independently owned allows Bishopton Vets to make decisions that benefit patients, clients, and colleagues. When emergencies arise, the team works together to do what is right for the animal, without hesitation.
    Living in Ripon
    Located on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales and Moors, Ripon offers stunning countryside for walking, cycling, and exploring. Harrogate and York are nearby, and the local grammar school has an excellent reputation.
    The Role
    Bishopton Vets is seeking a Small Animal Out of Hours Veterinary Surgeon to join its dedicated OOH team. This role is ideal for someone looking for variety, independence, and the opportunity to develop clinical skills while enjoying blocks of time off for a great work-life balance. The position is based at the RCVS-accredited hospital in Ripon.
    Working Pattern:
    7 nights on (6:00 pm–8:30 am), Monday to Sunday
    14 nights off
    Full-time or part-time applications welcome
    Support and Facilities:
    RVN on-site at all times, with twilight RVN and auxiliary support
    Morning and evening handovers at 8:00 am and 6:00 pm
    Fully equipped hospital with on-site lab, ultrasound, scopes, and complete surgical kit
    On-site accommodation available if required
    What Bishopton Vets offers:
    Salary of £40,000–£65,000 DOE
    CPD allowance of £2,000 (or £2,500 for Advanced Practitioners) plus 5 days (pro rata), with certificates encouraged and supported
    Professional fees paid for RCVS, VDS, BVA, plus one other membership
    Access to private medical insurance and medical cash plan
    Pension scheme (People’s Pension)
    Perkbox rewards and discounts
    Wellbeing initiatives, including Employee Assistance Programme
    Team pet discount scheme
    One paid volunteering day per year
    Cycle to Work scheme
    A supportive and social team environment
    If you’re ready to join a friendly, independent practice where you can develop your career while making a real difference in an OOH role, Bishopton Vets would love to hear from you.
    To apply please email a CV and covering letter to Sam Milner at careers@bishoptonvets.co.uk

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  • Small Animal Vet Opportunity - Hook Norton, Oxfordshire

    Small Animal Vet –  Permanent Role
    Location: Hook Norton Hospital and Branch sites, Oxfordshire.
    Hours: 4 days per week (8:00 am – 6.30 pm) – other working pattern options considered 
    OOH: currently 1:10 full weekends (day shifts) and occasional Saturday morning consult 
    Time off: Monday morning off after full weekend; full day off after occasional night shift 
    Come and join Hook Norton Veterinary Group - a large, reputable, independent practice with a dedicated night team, superb remuneration package, and structured career pathway for all. Offering both hospital and branch work, all sites are situated in stunning locations across Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.
    About the Role
    Small Animal Vets at Hook Norton Veterinary Group are typically based at the busy hospital in Hook Norton, with some sole charge at local branches. The role offers a fair share of consults, operations, hospital, and ambulatory shifts, all supported by extensive nursing and reception teams.
    Consults are 15 minutes, with consideration for complex cases and administration, all supported by a dedicated Small Animal Coordinator. Rotas are designed to be realistic and sustainable. Once the shift ends, vets hand over to the dedicated in-house night team, who look after inpatients and emergencies overnight.
    The practice has protocols for best practice but also respects and encourages clinical freedom to formulate and carry out individual clinical plans while working alongside a progressive and open-minded team. Hook Norton Veterinary Group takes pride in providing a high standard of care and enables and empowers its vets to do the same.
    With a large and loyal client base, the successful candidate will enjoy a full and varied caseload, allowing expansion of surgical and medical experience. The practice supports professional development and recognises special interest areas, along with mentoring from internal staff and a career pathway designed to support long-term goals.
    Clinical Team Includes:
    19 Small Animal Vets (including 4 Senior/Director level)
    17 Registered Veterinary Nurses, 5 Students, and several Assistants
    A fully staffed in-house laboratory, dedicated pharmacy, and dispensary team
    About the Candidate
    The ideal candidate is a genuine team player and a real ambassador for the practice. They take pride in doing their job to the best of their ability and are willing to step in to support colleagues when needed. They thrive in a busy environment, enjoy the satisfaction of a great day’s work, and value opportunities to learn and develop their skills.
    Equally, they appreciate the quieter moments to share interesting cases, catch up with colleagues, and further their CPD.
    The successful candidate will bring:
    Minimum 3 years of experience in a similar Small Animal vet role
    Full UK driving licence and own transport (the practice is in a beautiful rural setting)
    A collaborative, can-do attitude with high clinical aspirations
    A genuine passion for animals, farming, equine care, and country life
    What’s in It for the Successful Candidate
    Competitive salary, experience-dependent
    Funded RCVS membership and VDS cover
    7 weeks holiday (increasing with service)
    Private Medical Insurance, comprehensive wellbeing programme, and active social calendar
    Generous staff discount scheme
    Structured career pathway – from graduate to director level
    CPD: 1 week/£1,500 per year plus funding and support for Certificates
    Access to all XLVets resources and initiatives
    About Hook Norton Veterinary Group
    The practice is owned and managed by six practising Vet Directors who are fully immersed in daily operations, making quick decisions without red tape. Hook Norton Veterinary Group is a well-established, trusted independent practice with a great local reputation. It is also proud to be one of the founding members of XLVets, a nationwide community of independent practices working together to share knowledge and support.
    How to Apply
    If the Small Animal vet role sounds appealing, candidates should send their CV and a short covering letter (including preferred working hours/pattern, notice period, and salary expectations) to: careers@hooknortonvets.co.uk
    For an informal chat in the first instance, call 01608 730501
    Visit the website or follow Hook Norton Veterinary Group on social media (Facebook and Instagram) to see what life is really like at the practice.
    Location: Hook Norton Hospital

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  • Exciting Opportunity - Veterinary Surgeon - Portland Vets, Kent

    Portland Vets is looking for a new colleague.
    The practice is growing, with a new branch opening next month. The East Grinstead practice is a gold standard ISFM cat-friendly and PSS SA GP accredited site, and the team is seeking an enthusiastic, experienced individual to join them.
    Portland Vets is a unique independent group of practices that puts its staff first. A dedicated management team is always striving to find new ways to provide the best working environment. Times are changing, and the veterinary profession must adapt so that staff feel safe and heard. The team includes long-standing staff members who are committed to providing the best possible care for patients. When staff move on, it is typically to pursue non-clinical opportunities within the veterinary profession.
    Shifts are either 8 or 10 hours, with 15-minute consults as standard. Longer consults—30 minutes—can be booked for complex cases, and euthanasias are usually allocated 1 hour. Consults are booked mindfully, with protected time for admin. The practice uses Petsapp to facilitate easier communication with clients. The East Grinstead branch provides overnight inpatient care, supported by a dedicated night nurse, and the rota includes approximately 1 in 6 Saturdays.
    Role Details
    Salary: £50,000 – £65,000 FTE (depending on experience)
    8 or 10-hour shifts (vet’s choice), with built-in admin time
    1 in 6 Saturdays (average)
    Supported by a large team of experienced veterinary nurses
    Overtime and Saturday work compensated with time off
    RCVS and VDS fees paid by the practice
    Subscriptions to professional organisations (e.g. BSAVA) covered
    Generous CPD budget
    Support for certificates and further qualifications
    5 weeks’ holiday per year, plus bank holidays
    Option to purchase up to 5 extra days of holiday annually
    Additional holiday awarded with length of service
    Opportunity to receive private medical insurance via salary sacrifice
    Portland Vets is passionate about creating a space where staff feel valued, motivated, and empowered to make a real difference for the animals in their care.
    Qualified veterinary professionals seeking a better working life are encouraged to apply by contacting valerie@portlandvets.co.uk

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  • Maternity Cover Opportunity - Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) – Hook Norton Vets, Oxfordshire

    Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) – 6-9 Month Maternity Cover
    Location: Hook Norton, Oxfordshire
    Hours: Full-time (40 hours/week) – choose between 5 x 8-hour shifts or 4 x 10-hour shifts 
    Out of Hours Requirement: Weekend rota (1:6 days/nights, no mid-week nights) 
    Reports To: Head of Nursing Services 
    Salary Bracket: £28000
    Hook Norton Veterinary Group is proud to be an independent, well-established practice with a strong reputation for quality care and teamwork. The practice is currently seeking a passionate and dedicated Registered Veterinary Nurse (RVN) to join its Small Animal nursing team at the hospital, covering a maternity leave position. There is potential for the role to become permanent, subject to business needs.
    The successful candidate will join a supportive and collaborative team comprising 17 RVNs, 5 Student Nurses, and 6 Veterinary Care Assistants, working alongside experienced veterinary surgeons in a busy hospital setting. Applications are welcomed from both seasoned RVNs and those recently qualified with a minimum of one year’s experience. While prior hospital experience is desirable, full training will be provided for the right candidate.
    Although Hook Norton Veterinary Group also serves Farm and Equine clients, this role is dedicated exclusively to Small Animal care, allowing the RVN to focus on delivering outstanding clinical standards within a hospital environment.
    Role Overview
    The RVN will be actively involved in all aspects of nursing, including patient care, inpatient monitoring, surgical support, and emergency triage. The hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support high-quality veterinary care including:
    In-house lab and diagnostics suite 
    Class 4 laser therapy 
    Laparoscopic surgical kit 
    ECG machine, EPOC, multi-parameter and blood pressure monitors (including Doppler) 
    Separate cat, dog, and isolation wards 
    Two theatres and a dedicated dental suite
    A Day in the Life
    Nurses at Hook Norton Vets are clinical professionals, not just support staff. The role includes rotation through:
    Nurse consults and clinics
    Inpatient and emergency care
    Surgical and anaesthesia support
    Diagnostic procedures and lab work
    The RVN will be fully integrated into the care team, working in close partnership with vets and receptionists, sharing responsibility for cases from admission to discharge.
    What Hook Norton Vets Is Looking For
    RVN with a minimum of 1 year post-qualification experience in the UK
    Confident, compassionate, and calm under pressure
    Skilled at prioritising, multi-tasking, and using initiative
    A team player with a passion for high-quality care
    Strong communication and interpersonal skills
    Full driving licence and access to own vehicle
    Competent with IT and quick to learn new systems
    What’s in It for the Successful Candidate?
    Salary starting from £28,000 per annum, depending on experience
    5.6 weeks’ holiday, increasing with service
    RCVS fees paid
    £600 CPD allowance + 2 days (additional sponsorship available)
    Free health cash plan and annual flu jab
    Enhanced sick pay and family policies
    Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
    Generous staff discount on veterinary services and products
    Why Join Hook Norton Vets?
    Hook Norton Vets is more than just a workplace; it’s a community. Team members are supported in their professional development, valued for their contributions, and surrounded by colleagues who genuinely care. This is a role for someone ready to make a meaningful impact, grow, learn, and thrive.
    How to Apply
    Interested candidates should send a CV and short covering letter (including preferred working hours/pattern and salary expectations) to: careers@hooknortonvets.co.uk
    For an informal chat, call 01608 730501.
    Visit the website and follow Hook Norton Vets on Facebook and Instagram to explore life at the practice.

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  • Opportunity for an Animal Nursing Assistant - Hook Norton Vets, Oxfordshire

    Animal Nursing Assistant (ANA) – Permanent 
    Location: Hook Norton, OX15 5DG
    Hours: Full-time, 40 hours/week 4×10 hr day shifts with flexibility to work other shifts as required
    Reporting to: Head of Nursing Services
    Hook Norton Veterinary Group is seeking an experienced, enthusiastic, caring, and conscientious individual to join its Small Animal Veterinary Nursing Team as an Animal Nursing Assistant. The ideal candidate will bring at least one year of experience in a similar veterinary environment and will benefit from a structured training and development programme from day one.
    About Hook Norton Vets
    Hook Norton Vets is a large, independent veterinary practice with a longstanding reputation in the local community. Located just outside the village of Hook Norton, the practice has been caring for pets, farm animals, and horses across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas for over 40 years.
    The Small Animal Hospital operates 24/7, offering services ranging from routine check-ups and vaccinations to surgery and emergency care. In addition to the hospital, the practice includes three branch surgeries and dedicated teams for farm and equine care, supported by a fully equipped equine clinic.
    Role Overview
    The Animal Nursing Assistant will work closely with the Small Animal Team in a varied and dynamic role. Responsibilities include:
    Assisting with animal handling and patient care.
    Preparing surgical areas and supporting procedures in theatre.
    Providing support in hospital wards, consult rooms, pharmacy, and laboratory settings.
    Accompanying mobile vets in the community.
    Maintaining cleanliness and stock levels in clinical areas.
    Supporting administrative tasks, infection control, and other operational duties.
    Given the nature of the role, candidates must be comfortable managing a range of emotions, as the caseload includes emergencies and end-of-life care. The position is physically active and requires being on one’s feet for most of the day.
    Candidate Profile
    While formal animal care qualifications are beneficial, prior veterinary experience and a positive, proactive attitude are considered more important. The successful candidate will demonstrate:
    Strong communication skills - clear, calm, and compassionate.
    Quick learning ability and adaptability.
    Attention to detail and a collaborative spirit.
    A willingness to contribute to a hardworking and friendly team.
    Practical Requirements
    Residence within 30–40 minutes of Hook Norton (OX15 5DG).
    Own transport is essential due to the rural location.
    Shifts may start as early as 7:00 am and finish as late as 2:00 am, including some weekends.
    Benefits
    £12.21/hr, rising to £12.60/hr after probation.
    Branded uniform provided.
    5.6 weeks holiday (including bank holidays), increasing with service.
    Generous staff discounts for personal pets.
    Free healthcare cash plan and Employee Assistance Programme.
    Enhanced sick pay and family-friendly policies.
    Regular team socials and internal recognition.
    Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
    Why Join Hook Norton Vets?
    Hook Norton Vets is more than a veterinary practice, it is a community. The team is proud to be independent, inclusive, and passionate about animal care. The practice is committed to nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for growth and development within the veterinary profession.
    Whether the successful candidate chooses to pursue nursing qualifications or build a long-term support career, this role offers a meaningful and rewarding start.
    Ready to Apply?
    1. Send Hook Norton your CV to:  careers@hooknortonvets.co.uk
    2. With a short covering letter or send us a video explaining why you’d love to join the team: Text/WhatsApp: 07943 313176
    3. Complete the online questionnaire.
    Got questions? Call us for an informal chat: 01608 730501
    Location: Hook Norton
    Salary Bracket: £12.21

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