Senior Veterinary Surgeon
Independent Small Animal Practice – Tyne and Wear
Salary: £60,000–£75,000 DOE

Is it time for the next step? An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Senior Veterinary Surgeon to join a proudly independent small animal practice in Tyne and Wear.

Perfectly positioned a short distance from the stunning Northumberland countryside, the coast, and vibrant city life in Newcastle, with Durham’s historic cathedral city also close by, this location truly offers something for everyone—whatever the occasion.

The Practice

This is a Vet GPD-registered independent practice, actively working towards the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme and operating as a nurse training practice. Professional development is genuinely supported at every level, with real scope for progression—and even succession opportunities for those looking to put down roots.

The practice is exceptionally well equipped, with “every toy you could think of (and more on the way)” including a fully comprehensive in-house IDEXX laboratory for inpatients.

The Role

The Senior Veterinary Surgeon will enjoy a varied and interesting caseload, ranging from shoestring budgets to gold-standard care. The role is primarily companion animal, with some exotics for those who enjoy variety.

• 15-minute consultations
• Average 34-hour working week
• No late nights, no out-of-hours, no bank holidays
• 1 in 4 Saturday mornings (2.5-hour consult-only shift)
• Protected admin time, generous breaks, and free lunches provided

The Team

This is not an “ordinary” practice—and it doesn’t pretend to be. The team describes itself as weird, and proudly so. The ethos is simple: work hard, be excellent, then go home and enjoy life outside of work.

The veterinary team includes four vets, with experience ranging from recent graduate to Surgery Certificate holder, alongside support from a sister practice and a close relationship with a nearby referral hospital.

Collaboration is key:

• Weekly vet meetings
• Dedicated Vet Slack group for real-time clinical discussion
• A monthly Microsoft Teams journal club, forming the backbone of the practice’s commitment to evidence-based veterinary medicine, enjoyed by both clinical and non-clinical staff

The Candidate

An interest in leading a clinical team is preferred. For the right person, a fully funded 12-month leadership training programme is available.

The practice values attitude and work ethic above all else—skills can be taught, the right mindset cannot. A healthy sense of humour is essential, and an aptitude for expressive language will not go unnoticed.

The Perks

• Excellent salary: £60,000–£75,000 depending on capability
• Unlimited CPD budget
• Certificates fully funded, supported, and encouraged
• RCVS and VDS fees paid
• 6 weeks holiday, plus birthday off
• Pension scheme
• Free professional mental health support
• Cycle to work scheme
• Staff loyalty bonuses
• Staff discount
• Flexible working patterns
• Outstanding support staff, including designated receptionists so nurses remain clinically focused
• Comprehensive facilities and equipment
• Relocation package: up to £800 per month for the first 3 months

This role offers the chance to be part of a genuinely supportive, forward-thinking, and refreshingly honest practice—where excellent veterinary care and a real work–life balance go hand in hand.

How to Apply

For more information or for a confidential chat, please contact Lily on 01904 570056 or email l.thorpe@purovets.com

To view all our vacancies, please visit https://purovets.com/veterinary-jobs/

And don't forget, if this position is of no interest to you but you know someone who may be interested, please pass on our details. We offer £250* for every successful candidate referral. *Terms and conditions apply.

Ref no: JOB-57005