Veterinary Practitioner - Small Animal

Join a Practice Where You Can Grow, Thrive and Make a Difference

Rathgael Garden Lodge Vets is excited to welcome a dedicated and enthusiastic Veterinary Surgeon to our growing team from November 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a well-established group of busy, first-opinion small animal clinics across Bangor, Holywood and Dundonald, supported by an experienced team that is passionate about delivering exceptional patient care and creating an environment where colleagues can flourish.

Whether you're looking to build on your existing experience or take the next step in your veterinary career, you'll find plenty of opportunities to develop your skills, pursue your interests and become part of a genuinely supportive practice culture.

Modern Facilities, Diverse Caseloads

Across our three sites, you'll have access to the facilities, equipment and clinical support needed to provide outstanding care every day. Our practices are fully equipped with digital radiography, ultrasound, dental suites with dental radiography, in-house laboratory facilities, laser therapy and diathermy, allowing us to work up a broad range of medical and surgical cases in-house.

We are proud to have certificate holders in General Practice and Small Animal Medicine within the team, and we also welcome dental referrals, providing excellent opportunities to further develop your clinical knowledge and confidence. You'll enjoy a varied caseload with a rewarding mix of consultations, surgery and case continuity, enabling you to build lasting relationships with clients and their pets.

A Team That Invests In Your Future

Learning and development are at the heart of what we do. We actively encourage colleagues to pursue their clinical interests and support further education, including postgraduate certificates. As an accredited training practice, we are equally passionate about mentoring the next generation of veterinary professionals and fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge sharing is part of everyday life.

You'll be joining a friendly and experienced team that values teamwork, clinical excellence and continuous improvement. We believe the best patient outcomes come from working together, supporting one another and creating a workplace where everyone can contribute and succeed.

Build Your Career Around You

This is a full-time position working 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with shifts scheduled between 8:30am and 7:30pm. The role also includes participation in a 1 in 4 Saturday morning rota, working 8:30am to 12:30pm.

We understand that flexibility matters and are committed to supporting a healthy work-life balance wherever possible.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking a Veterinary Surgeon who is passionate about small animal practice and committed to delivering high standards of clinical care. The successful candidate will be a strong communicator who enjoys working collaboratively while also feeling confident managing cases independently.

You must be RCVS registered, or eligible to register, to be considered for this position. Above all, we're looking for someone who shares our values, embraces learning and is keen to contribute to a positive and supportive team culture.

Bangor: Coastal Living with City Convenience

Located on the beautiful shores of Belfast Lough, Bangor offers an exceptional quality of life. Combining stunning coastal scenery with excellent amenities, vibrant cafés, restaurants and leisure facilities, it provides the perfect balance between work and lifestyle. With Belfast just a short commute away, you'll enjoy all the benefits of coastal living without sacrificing access to city life.

How We’ll Support You

At inspiring vet care, we’re committed to supporting your ongoing development and wellbeing. When you join us, you’ll benefit from:

*Clear career pathways with progression opportunities across primary care, referral, leadership, and specialist roles

*Funded learning and development including CPD allowance and access to IVC academy training centres & role-relevant courses

*£1,250 annual Care Fund for every vet

*Access to mentors, regional clinical coaches, and peer networks

*Support to develop clinical interests and expand your capabilities

*A collaborative, values-led culture focused on care, community, and continuous improvement

What We Offer Our Team

* 7 weeks’ holiday including bank holidays

* Private medical insurance

* Enhanced family leave and pay across maternity, paternity, adoption and surrogacy

* BVA membership, VDS cover & RCVS fees

* Cycle to Work and Green Car schemes (eligibility applies)

* Retail discounts and cashback offers

* Reduced-cost veterinary care for your own pets

We’re committed to supporting our people through career development opportunities, wellbeing initiatives and access to world-class learning resources.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, inspiring vet care offers the support, opportunity and community to help you grow.

Ready to Find Your Place With Us?

If you're looking for a supportive practice where you can develop your skills, work alongside experienced colleagues and enjoy a varied and rewarding caseload, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply today and discover what a rewarding veterinary career at Rathgael Garden Lodge Vets can look like.