About Company
St. Giles Veterinary Centre has been a trusted name in veterinary care for the Oxford community for decades. Established on the principles of compassion, excellence, and dedicated service, we provide comprehensive veterinary services, including preventative care, advanced diagnostics, surgical procedures, and emergency services. As part of the wider VetPartners family, we combine the strength of a national network with the personalised, local approach our clients cherish. Our state-of-the-art facilities and experienced team are committed to fostering a healthy, happy life for every pet that walks through our doors. We believe in continuous learning, professional development, and creating a supportive work environment where every team member feels valued and empowered to provide the best possible care.
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Job Description
Are you a compassionate, dedicated, and energetic individual with a profound love for animals? St. Giles Veterinary Centre, a long-standing pillar of veterinary care in Oxford, is seeking a passionate Animal Care Assistant to join our thriving team. This is a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the well-being of countless pets and support our veterinary professionals in a dynamic and rewarding environment. As an Animal Care Assistant, you will be an indispensable part of our clinic, ensuring the highest standards of hygiene, comfort, and emotional support for all animals under our care, from routine check-ups to post-operative recovery.
At St. Giles Veterinary Centre, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional, personalised care that treats every animal as a cherished member of the family. Our team is a close-knit group of experienced vets, nurses, and support staff who share a common goal: to deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients and their owners. You will be instrumental in maintaining the smooth operation of our busy practice, working closely with clinical staff to prepare consultation rooms, assist with patient handling, and ensure a sterile and welcoming environment. Your role will go beyond just cleaning; it involves keen observation of animal behaviour, recognising signs of distress or improvement, and communicating these effectively to the veterinary team. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a tangible difference in the lives of animals, offering comfort, reassurance, and diligent care.
We are looking for someone who is not only meticulous and organised but also possesses genuine empathy and patience. The ideal candidate will be comfortable with a variety of tasks, from rigorous cleaning protocols to gentle animal restraint, and will be eager to learn and grow within our supportive team. This role is physically demanding and requires a strong work ethic, but the rewards of seeing animals recover and return home happy and healthy are immense. If you are ready to embark on a fulfilling career where your passion for animals can truly shine and contribute to a legacy of compassionate care in the heart of Oxford, we encourage you to apply. Join St. Giles Veterinary Centre and become a vital part of our commitment to animal welfare.
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Key Responsibilities
- Provide daily care for inpatients, including feeding, watering, exercising, and administering oral medications under veterinary supervision.
- Maintain the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the clinic, including kennels, catteries, consultation rooms, and surgical areas.
- Assist veterinarians and veterinary nurses with animal restraint during examinations, treatments, and procedures.
- Monitor the well-being and behaviour of hospitalised animals, reporting any changes or concerns promptly to the veterinary team.
- Prepare and sterilise surgical instruments and equipment.
- Restock supplies, manage laundry, and ensure the overall tidiness of the practice.
- Support clients with compassion and professionalism, answering basic queries and assisting with check-ins/check-outs as needed.
- Assist with waste disposal and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
Required Skills
- A genuine passion for animal welfare and a strong empathetic approach.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong attention to detail and a proactive attitude.
- Physical stamina to handle demanding tasks, including lifting and prolonged standing.
- Reliability, punctuality, and a strong work ethic.
- Basic understanding of animal behaviour and handling techniques (training provided).
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience (at least 6 months) in an animal care environment, such as a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or boarding facility.
- Relevant animal care qualification (e.g., Level 2 Animal Care Assistant, Diploma in Animal Management).
- Basic knowledge of veterinary terminology.
- First aid certification for animals (desirable).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and pension scheme.
- Generous holiday allowance.
- Comprehensive training and professional development opportunities.
- Uniform provided.
- Employee discount on veterinary services for your own pets.
- Supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of animals.
How to Apply
If you are ready to contribute your passion and skills to a leading veterinary practice in Oxford, please click on the application link below. You will be directed to our careers portal where you can search for this role or similar opportunities at St. Giles Veterinary Centre within the VetPartners network. We look forward to receiving your application!
