Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal (GP Focus)

Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal (GP Focus) Vetcare Athy, Co. Kildare
Full-time, Fixed Term Contract (Part-time considered)
Salary up to €70,000 DOE (FTE)
Start date from May 2026 (flexible) A Solid GP Role in a Well-Run, Supportive Practice

Vetcare Athy is seeking a confident, well-rounded small animal Veterinary Surgeon to join the team on a maternity cover contract. This role is ideal for an experienced GP vet who enjoys the rhythm of first opinion practice, is comfortable managing a varied caseload, and takes pride in delivering consistent, high-quality care.

You'll be joining a busy but well-organised clinic where the focus is on doing the fundamentals well. This is a role for someone who values good clinical standards, enjoys building client relationships, and is confident across routine consults, surgery and day-to-day case management.

The Role - Confident First Opinion Practice

This is a full-time position working 42 hours per week, Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 6:00pm, with a 1 in 4 Saturday rota from 9:00am to 3:00pm.

You'll be managing a broad and steady caseload, including consultations, routine surgeries, dentistry and medical work ups. The role will suit someone who is comfortable with the pace of general practice and capable of working independently when needed, including periods of sole charge.

There are no out-of-hours requirements, no Sundays and no bank holiday work, giving you a predictable schedule and a good balance outside of work.

A Practice That Supports Good Clinical Work

Vetcare Athy is the flagship clinic within the Vetcare group, offering a well equipped and professionally run environment. While the focus remains on first opinion care, the practice also supports more complex case work ups and procedures, giving you the option to expand your clinical exposure if that's of interest.

Facilities include digital and dental X ray, ultrasound and a fully equipped in house laboratory, allowing you to work cases to a high standard. The team is experienced, approachable and collaborative, creating an environment where you can focus on doing your job well without unnecessary pressure.

Flexible Options to Suit You

While this is advertised as a full time position, we are very open to hearing from experienced vets seeking part time or alternative working patterns. If you're looking for something that better fits around other commitments, let us know what works for you and we'll do our best to accommodate where possible.

Who This Role Will Suit

This position is best suited to an experienced Veterinary Surgeon who is confident in routine small animal practice. You'll be comfortable with consultations, diagnostics, routine soft tissue surgery and dentistry, and happy managing cases from start to finish.

You'll also be someone who works well within a team, communicates clearly, and takes a practical, steady approach to clinical work.

This is not a role for a new graduate, but it is ideal for a GP vet who enjoys the variety and consistency of first opinion practice and wants to work in a well supported setting.

Part of a Wider, Supportive Network

As part of the Vetcare group and IVC Evidensia, you'll have access to a wider clinical network, resources and potential future opportunities. While this is a fixed term contract, it can be a great way to build relationships within the group and explore longer term options if they arise.

A Package That Reflects Your Experience

Alongside a competitive salary, you'll receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and professional development. This includes generous annual leave, paid CPD, professional memberships, wellbeing supports, pension contributions and a range of additional benefits.

A Straightforward, High Quality GP Role

If you're looking for a role where you can step in, feel confident in your work, and be part of a supportive, well run practice, this could be an excellent fit.

At IVC Evidensia we are committed to Diversity, Equality, Inclusion and Belonging, we are keen to hear from candidates from all minority and diverse groups. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are keen to hear from candidates with disabilities and long term health conditions and would be happy to discuss any reasonable adjustments needed during the recruitment process.

Any questions before applying?

Speak to Shonagh Dawson from our recruitment team who would be happy to help you with any questions you have before applying for this role.