Veterinary Surgeon

We are looking for a Veterinary Surgeon to provide a high standard of cost-effective clinical care and customer service, treating Battersea inpatients and outpatients across all Battersea sites where required.

Battersea is here for every dog and cat and has been since 1860. We are a leading animal welfare charity and over the last 160 years we’ve grown from one home in London to three rescuing and rehoming centres across the South East. With c600 staff and 1000 volunteers, we have cared for over three million vulnerable animals We also campaign tirelessly to make things better for dogs and cats; sharing our expertise and educating the public and policymakers about responsible pet ownership. Join us and make a difference for every dog and cat.

Main Purpose of the Role

Provide a high standard of cost-effective clinical care and customer service, treating Battersea inpatients. 

Responsible for medical and surgical procedures for BDCH inpatients and outpatients at all Battersea sites, including disease prevention and promotion of animal health and welfare. 

Tasks to include:

• Ensure accurate recording of veterinary records, reports and certificates in compliance with current legislation
• Understand and comply with legal obligations in relation to the prescription, safe-keeping and supply of veterinary medicinal products
• Responsible for security and control of all drugs, vaccines, veterinary supplies and equipment
• Manage cases cost-effectively, ensuring BDCH resources are used appropriately
• Provide emergency cover on a roster basis

Communicate effectively with the public, clients and colleagues

• Foster and endeavour to maintain good relationships with members of the clinic team and your professional colleagues
• Share knowledge and experience with others
• Liaise effectively with other departments. This may include contributions to Communications and Fundraising teams where appropriate
• Complete regular CPD as appropriate for use within the Charity’s environment
• Assist in the supervision and training of nursing staff in the performance of their duties
• Keep abreast of legislation relating to the welfare of animals and medicines

The above job description is intended to be an outline of the duties and responsibilities for this role. This is not an exhaustive list, and it is likely to change over time. You may be expected to undertake other duties that are commensurate with this role and grade.

Decision Making and Accountabilities

Decision Making

• Veterinary Surgeons have professional responsibilities with regards the animals under the Home’s care, the organisation, the clinic team, the profession and the public.

Outpatients across all Battersea sites where required

Accountability

• Veterinary Surgeons are accountable for their conduct and standards, as defined in the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.

Essential

• Member of the Royal College of Veterinary surgeons (MRCVS)
• Extensive small animal knowledge and experience with diagnostic, medical and surgical (routine and emergency) caseloads (minimum one year post qualification).
• Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure and to meet deadlines, including the ability to prioritise and manage conflicting demands.
• Flexibility in work commitment; work extra hours if required and participate in an out of hours rota to provide emergency cover (with time off in lieu).
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to adapt your communication style.
• Proven experience of delivering high quality work with minimum supervision.
• Proven experience of good organisational skills to successfully manage high workloads.
• Proven experience of working constructively and collaboratively with colleagues from different teams.
• Good customer service skills, including the ability to use tact and diplomacy when necessary.
• IT literate with good experience of MS Office and other relevant IT systems as appropriate for the role.
• Understanding of, and a commitment to the vision, mission and values of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

Desirable

• Experience of working in a rescue environment

The Package:

• 28 days annual leave per year (not including 8 days paid public holidays per year)
• Generous pension contributions – up to 10% employer contribution
• Professional membership fees
• 5 days per year pro-rata CPD training/conference attendance
• Cost-price veterinary care for your own dog(s) and cat(s)
• Annual interest-free season ticket loans and cycle to work scheme
• Free healthcare cash plan where you can claim for a range of treatments including dental (£100), optical (£100), physiotherapy, chiropody and acupuncture (£325) every year.
• Discounted gym memberships and access to Battersea’s many social clubs and activities.
• Subsidised meals through Battersea’s brand new onsite café facilities

 For more information and to submit your application, click the apply button.