Small Animal Vet with Exotics interest | To start in January 2026

Veterinary Surgeon – Small Animal & Exotics (Full-Time) – Cardiff, South Wales

A rare and exciting opportunity has arisen!

GVC is assisting a friendly, RCVS-accredited small animal practice near Cardiff to recruit a full-time Veterinary Surgeon for a hybrid small animal and exotics role, starting in 2026. Extensive exotics experience is not required, as full support will be provided.

This is a fantastic role for a GP vet with an interest in exotics, particularly for those looking to develop toward a certificate in exotics over time.

The Role

• Salary: up to £50,000

• Hours: 5-day (40 hr) week, Monday-Friday

• No night shifts – permanent night vets cover these

• Work across small animal 1st opinion service and the dedicated exotics service

• Likely exotics bias in rota, with weekly exotics days

• Provide support during exotics lead leave, with guidance from boarded specialists

The clinic’s exotics service is led by a full-time boarded specialist, supported by a second boarded specialist for two days every fortnight. You’ll be the exotics co-pilot, helping manage first opinion exotics cases and supporting the team in a collaborative environment.

Exotics Department Features

• Dedicated exotics waiting area and consulting rooms

• Separate wards for small mammals and avian/reptile species

• Heated vivaria and isolation ward

• Exotics prep area and post-mortem room with biological safety cabinet

• Imaging and diagnostics: X-ray, ultrasound, CT, endoscopy, plus in-house blood testing

About the Practice

The practice is a busy, modern RCVS-accredited veterinary hospital with:

• Large, collaborative vet team

• 24/7 inpatient care

• CT Scanner and advanced ultrasonography

• Endosurgery facilities

• Extensive in-house blood analysis (including TEG, blood gases)

• Dedicated orthopaedic, soft tissue, and exotic theatres

• ECC wards and dental suite

• In-house rehabilitation services including physiotherapy and hydrotherapy

The practice prides itself on investing in team development and clinical equipment, providing an excellent platform to pursue personal clinical interests.

Local Area

Situated just outside Cardiff, the area combines city convenience with easy access to nature.

• Vibrant Cardiff city centre

• Coastal towns of the Vale of Glamorgan

• Mountains of the Valleys and Brecon Beacons National Park

• Extensive sports and outdoor activities, including mountain biking, coastal walks, and the Welsh Coastal Path

Salary & Benefits

• 6.6 weeks paid holiday
• £1,750 CPD allowance + 5 days CPD (certificate study support)

• RCVS membership and two other professional subscriptions

• VDS cover

• Enhanced family leave

• Cycle to Work scheme

If you’re ready to develop your exotics skills in a supportive, collaborative environment,
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Contact Stephanie Hellier for more details – [email protected] / 01392 793069