Freedom to Be the Vet You Trained to Be - Small Animal Vet with Life Balance in Coastal Devon Town
Veterinary Surgeon – Independent Small Animal Practice – Devon
This independent, vet-owned small animal practice takes pride in doing things differently. Free from corporate targets and upselling pressures, the focus is on delivering compassionate, high-quality veterinary care within a supportive, close-knit team. It's a workplace where clinical integrity matters and colleagues genuinely enjoy working together. GVC are proud to be assisting with the recruitment for this exceptional opportunity.
The practice is seeking a kind, capable, and collaborative veterinary surgeon to join their growing six-vet team. With clinical freedom, 20-minute consults, no out-of-hours, and strong support for CPD and personal development, this is an environment designed to help vets thrive – both professionally and personally.
About
100% independently owned by the Head Vet
Accredited RCVS Small Animal General Practice
2 welcoming branches in Devon
Team of 6 vets, 20 staff total – including RVNs, support team, and a CertAVP holder
Equipment includes:
Laparoscopic spay facilities
Digital radiography
High-end doppler ultrasound
Capnography
Digital tonometry
Dedicated surgical theatres
The practice has particular strengths in soft tissue surgery and imaging, with team members who are especially passionate about internal medicine and laparoscopic procedures. While orthopaedics and exotics are not core areas, thanks to well-established referral relationships, including external ortho specialists - there is a strong interest in developing the dental side of the practice. A vet with a passion for dentistry would be a valuable addition, and further interest in medicine would also be highly welcomed
What the Practice Offers
Salary: Up to £65,000, depending on experience and working pattern
Working Hours: Full-time or part-time (1–4 days per week) – flexibility to suit the individual
Out-of-Hours: None – no nights or weekends required
CPD Support: Generous annual budget of £1,500+
Professional Fees: RCVS, VDS, and one additional subscription fully covered
Clinical Freedom: Encouragement to pursue areas of personal interest
Development Opportunities: Funding and support available for further training in areas such as laparoscopic surgery, dentistry, or internal medicine
Collaborative Environment: Every team member is encouraged to contribute ideas and help shape the future direction of the practice
Who They’re Looking For
The practice is seeking a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon with a minimum of 4 years' experience in first-opinion practice.
The ideal candidate will be:
Competent and confident in routine surgery and diagnostics
A clear, compassionate communicator who builds trust with clients
A genuine team player who values collaboration over competition
Curious, proactive, and committed to ongoing development – both personal and professional
Someone who wants to contribute to the practice’s growth and evolution
Why You’ll Love Devon
Devon offers the kind of quality of life you just can’t fake. Beautiful beaches, rolling hills, friendly towns, great food and the peaceful, outdoor lifestyle to match. You’ll find kayaking, hiking, climbing, sea-swimming, and dog-walking paradise right on your doorstep.
You'll join a practice that’s small enough to feel like family, but big enough to keep things interesting. Laughter is frequent, support is real, and wellbeing is prioritised.
Please feel free to contact Stephanie.Hellier@gvcvets.com for further information or to make an application!
The Devon Dream starts here!