Veterinary Care Assistant

At inspiring vet care, our people are at the heart of everything we do. As the UK's number one vet care provider, we're trusted with the care of over 2 million animals, delivering our purpose of healthier animals and happier owners.

We are seeking an enthusiastic, team-orientated Veterinary Care Assistant to join our team at St Mary's Vets on a full-time basis.

St Mary's Veterinary Clinic is a friendly small animal practice based in Dorset, with easy access to the Jurassic Coast and the New Forest, alongside excellent rail and road connections from nearby Bournemouth and Poole. As part of the inspiring vet care Graduate Academy and a recognised nurse training practice, we're passionate about supporting the development of future veterinary professionals. You'll be joining a welcoming team with a great sense of humour and a collaborative approach to patient care.

As a Veterinary Care Assistant, you will play an important role in supporting the clinical team to deliver high standards of patient and client care, while helping to ensure the practice environment runs smoothly and safely.

Working under the direction of a Veterinary Surgeon or Registered Veterinary Nurse, you'll support inpatient care, assist with patient handling and restraint, help maintain clinical areas and equipment, and contribute to a positive and compassionate experience for both patients and clients.

This is a full-time role working 40 hours per week, including some late shifts until 6:45pm and 1 in 3 Saturdays from 8:30am to 12:30pm.

* Support reception and provide cover during periods of annual leave when required

* Assist the nursing team with the care and monitoring of patients

* Help with patient handling and restraint under supervision

* Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the practice

* Prepare and maintain clinical areas and equipment

* Contribute to a welcoming environment for clients, patients and colleagues

You are a reliable and motivated individual who enjoys working as part of a team and is keen to develop within a veterinary environment. You'll bring:

* A caring, professional approach with a genuine interest in animal welfare

* Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively with colleagues and clients

* Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage tasks effectively in a busy environment

* A proactive attitude to learning, with openness to feedback and development

* Experience of working with animals in either a clinical or non-clinical setting would be advantageous

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

* Structured development opportunities, including access to VCA development programmes and apprenticeships

* Clear career pathways with progression opportunities into Student Veterinary Nurse roles and beyond

* Supportive, collaborative teams focused on delivering high-quality patient and client care

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

* 6.6 weeks' annual leave plus your birthday off

* Increasing holiday allowance based on length of service

* Enhanced family-friendly policies, including maternity, paternity, adoption, shared parental and surrogacy pay

* Employee wellbeing initiatives including Healthcare Cash Plan and Cycle to Work scheme

* Learning and development opportunities via the inspiring vet care Academy

* Pension scheme

* Discounted veterinary care

* Voluntary benefits including Green Cars salary sacrifice scheme and access to discounts and cashback with hundreds of participating retailers

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.