Job Description

Equine Veterinary Surgeon (Experienced) – South Devon

Independent Practice | Up to £65,000 DOE | Flexible (Permanent or Maternity Cover)

An established, independently owned equine veterinary practice in beautiful South Devon is seeking an experienced Equine Veterinary Surgeon to join its dynamic and supportive team. This opportunity is available as either a permanent role or maternity cover, offering flexibility for the right candidate.

With a rich heritage dating back to the days when vets travelled by horse and cart, the practice has evolved into a forward-thinking, modern equine service while maintaining its strong community roots and personal approach.

Why Join This Practice?

This is a rare opportunity to be part of a dedicated equine team within a much larger, collaborative veterinary group. The equine department consists of five vets (full-time and part-time), including certificate holders in Equine Medicine, Equine Practice, and Equine Reproduction, with additional team members working towards further qualifications.

Unlike smaller ambulatory-only teams, this role benefits from being part of a wider network of 47 vets and 130 staff, creating a vibrant, supportive, and social working environment.

The practice is currently fully ambulatory, with ambitions to expand into its own clinic in the future. It is well-equipped with advanced diagnostic tools including:

• Video endoscopy
• Digital radiography
• Ultrasound
• Surgical laser

Set in South Devon, the location offers an exceptional lifestyle, with access to coastline, countryside, and moorland. The team regularly enjoys social activities such as surfing, horse riding, and swimming, making the most of the area.

The Role

The successful candidate will:

• Work as part of a collaborative equine veterinary team
• Deliver high-quality care to patients and clients
• Contribute to the continued growth and development of the equine service
• Participate in a shared out-of-hours rota (1:5) with strong support

Candidate Requirements

• Experienced Equine Veterinary Surgeon
• Strong team player with a proactive approach
• Passion for delivering excellent clinical care
• Certificate holder or currently working towards one
• An interest in equine lameness would be advantageous (but not essential)
• Enthusiasm for helping to grow and shape the practice

What’s on Offer

• Salary up to £65,000 DOE
• 4-day working week (typically 9:00am – 6:00pm with rolling lieu day)
• 1:5 out-of-hours rota, with vet and nurse support
• Company vehicle available if required
• Enhanced maternity, paternity, and sick pay
• Generous CPD allowance
• Private health insurance
• Paid RCVS and VDS fees
• Birthday off as an extra holiday
• Cycle to Work and Electric Car schemes
• Paid time off for charity work
• Generous staff discount
• A wide range of additional workplace perks
• Proud recipient of the BVA Good Workplace Silver Award

Work-Life Balance & Culture

The rota is designed with work-life balance in mind, allowing time to enjoy everything South Devon has to offer. The wider team culture is friendly, inclusive, and highly supportive, with regular social events and a genuine focus on wellbeing.

Apply Now

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced equine vet looking to join a progressive, independent practice with strong values, excellent facilities, and an enviable lifestyle location.

Applications are welcomed from candidates seeking either a long-term position or fixed-term maternity cover.

For more information or for a confidential chat, please contact Megan on 01904 570056 or email m.pinder@purovets.com

You can also WhatsApp us at WhatsApp - Purovets and we are always happy to answer any questions you may have about our great opportunities.  

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-58098