Registered Veterinary Nurse – 24-Hour Hospital
Location: Dorchester, Dorset
Permanent | Full-time (Part-time considered)
Confidential Opportunity
The Vet Office is recruiting on behalf of a recently refurbished, multi-disciplinary 24-hour small animal hospital in Dorchester, Dorset, located just a short drive from the stunning Jurassic Coast.
This is an excellent opportunity for a Registered Veterinary Nurse who is looking to develop their skills in a busy hospital environment with a varied caseload and strong clinical support.
The Role
* Full-time position (up to 40 hours per week)
* Rotating early and late shifts
* Weekend work included on a rota basis (essential to support 24-hour services)
* Part-time applications considered (weekend availability required)
* Opportunity to work across theatre, diagnostics, emergency and inpatient nursing
The Hospital
* Established 24-hour, multi-disciplinary hospital with strong regional presence
* Provides OOH cover for multiple surrounding practices
* Highly skilled and supportive clinical team including:
o Certificate holders in Diagnostic Imaging, Internal Medicine, Dermatology and ECC
o Vets currently undertaking further qualifications in Surgery and Dentistry
* RCVS-accredited training practice with 24-hour vet and nurse cover
* Strong nurse-led culture with genuine support for professional development
Facilities include:
* CT scanner (internal and referral cases)
* Digital X-ray and ultrasound
* Dental X-ray
* Endoscopy
* Two sterile operating theatres
* Dedicated in-house laboratory
* Hydrotherapy unit
* Peripatetic physiotherapist
* Isolation facilities
* Separate dog and cat wards
* ISFM Silver Cat Friendly status
* 24/7 ECC support with experienced night team
Key Responsibilities
* Deliver exceptional patient and client care at all times
* Support surgical and diagnostic procedures, including all pre- and post-operative care
* Run nurse-led clinics and undertake Schedule 3 procedures
* Monitor hospitalised and critical patients
* Manage patient admissions, discharges and transfers
* Dispense and check medications accurately
* Maintain high standards of clinical, regulatory and operational compliance
* Participate in team briefings to support efficient hospital workflows
Candidate Requirements
* RCVS-registered Veterinary Nurse
* Minimum 1 year post-qualification experience in small animal practice
* Confident working in a fast-paced hospital environment
* Strong team player with excellent communication skills
* Interest in nurse-led clinics and developing clinical skills
* Positive, proactive approach with a focus on high-quality care
Whats on Offer
* Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
* Health cash plan from day one (dental, physio, optical & 24/7 GP access)
* Life assurance (3x salary)
* 5–6 weeks annual leave + bank holidays
* Additional paid personal day (Day for You)
* CPD allowance: £750 per year + 2 paid CPD days
* Funded certificate opportunities
* RCVS & VDS fees paid
* Interest-free travel loan
* Cycle to work scheme
* Staff discounts on veterinary products and services
Why This Role?
* Exposure to a diverse hospital caseload
* Supportive, learning-focused clinical environment
* Strong nurse-led culture with development opportunities
* Excellent location near the Dorset coast
How to Apply
This vacancy is being managed confidentially by The Vet Office.
To apply or request further information, please contact:
info@thevetoffice.com