Veterinary Ward Assistant

Location: Swayne & Partners Long Melford
Job Type: Full-time, 40 hours per week (possibly including some weekends on a rota basis)

Clinical Directors: Tom Berry 
Head Nurse: Joy Fortis 

About Us:

Long Melford is a wonderful community practice that is part of the Swayne and Partners group. Swayne and Partners is a highly respected group of four veterinary clinics including a fully equipped hospital based in Bury St Edmunds.  

Long Melford is a beautiful clinic that has all the mod cons you could need to work to a high standard serving a highly engaged and loyal local client base. It also benefits from the support of Bury that operates 24/7, offers advanced surgical and medical procedures and even has a CT scanner.  

About the Role:

We are looking for a dedicated Veterinary Ward Assistant to join our team in Long Melfors. This is a hands-on role supporting our veterinary surgeons and registered veterinary nurses in delivering exceptional patient care. You will assist with the day-to-day care of animals, maintain cleanliness and hygiene within the wards and theatre areas, and ensure our patients receive the highest standard of welfare during their stay.

This role is ideal for someone who is passionate about animal care, thrives in a busy clinical environment, and is keen to develop their skills within a supportive veterinary team.

Please note: All tasks are to be completed under the supervision of a Veterinary Surgeon or Registered Veterinary Nurse in accordance with the RCVS Code of Professional Conduct.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist the veterinary and nursing teams in caring for hospitalised patients, including feeding, walking, cleaning, and monitoring their condition
• Support with patient preparation, handling, and post-operative care
• Maintain cleanliness, hygiene, and infection control standards across all clinical areas
• Help prepare, clean, and restock surgical equipment and theatre areas (training provided)
• Update patient records and assist with administrative tasks
• Handle animals safely, calmly, and compassionately, prioritising their welfare at all times
• Assist with general hospital duties such as laundry, waste management, and cleaning
• Provide support to reception as needed, including answering phones and greeting clients
• Take part in the weekend rota alongside the nursing team
  

What We're Looking For:

• Previous experience working in a veterinary or animal care environment is desirable but not essential — full training will be provided
• Compassionate, reliable, and proactive approach to animal care
• Strong team player with excellent communication and organisation skills
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and patient welfare
• Enthusiastic and eager to learn within a clinical setting

What We're Offering:

• Competitive salary (dependent on experience)
• 5 weeks annual leave plus bank holidays (pro rata for part-time roles)
• Private Healthcare with Vitality
• Free eye test vouchers and contribution towards glasses for VDU users
• 3 weeks occupational sickness pay
• Generous colleague discount scheme for up to 5 registered pets
• Ongoing in-house training and career development opportunities within the Kin Vet Community

How to Apply:

For a confidential chat, please contact Hayley at the clinic on , or send your CV to