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