Veterinary Orthopaedics & Spinal Surgery Externship
Duration: 1–3 Months | Free On-Site Accommodation Provided | Unpaid

Are you a veterinary surgeon looking to specialise in orthopaedics or deepen your expertise in complex musculoskeletal and spinal conditions?

Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics is offering exclusive externship opportunities for 1–3 months within our dedicated referral team. This placement is ideally suited to established vets seeking focused exposure to advanced orthopaedic and spinal surgery in a supportive, referral environment.

What We Offer:

• First-hand experience with cutting-edge procedures in orthopaedic and spinal surgery
• Direct mentorship from experienced surgeons in a collaborative and educational setting
• Opportunities to observe and assist with a wide variety of surgical cases
• Daily clinical discussions and tailored learning experiences
• On-site accommodation provided for the duration of your placement

Ideal Candidate:

• Qualified veterinary surgeon with at least 1–2 years of clinical experience
• Genuine interest in orthopaedic and/or spinal surgery
• Motivated to pursue further training or specialisation
• Comfortable in a dynamic and referral-based setting

Hear what one of our recent externs has to say:

“I participated in a two-month externship at Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics. During my stay, I gained insight on how a veterinary orthopaedic referral centre operates, and I was exposed to many interesting orthopaedic cases. I was involved with every referral case and follow-up appointment, from observing consultations with Dr. Phil to assisting the nurses with X-rays or CT scans and preparing patients for surgery, as well as closely observing every surgical procedure performed by Dr. Phil and Dr. Harry.

I found the environment professional and stimulating, with an amazingly skilled and friendly nursing team. I would recommend this programme to vets who are keen to expand their knowledge of orthopaedic cases”

Dr Milena Zanetti MRCVS

This externship offers a valuable stepping stone for those considering advanced certificates, residencies, or simply seeking to enhance their surgical confidence and decision-making in orthopaedic and spinal cases.

To apply, please send your CV and a brief statement of interest to: enquires@wessexvetortho.com
Positions available year-round – early applications encouraged.

Join us at Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics and take the next step in your surgical journey.

Wessex Veterinary Orthopaedics is a thriving, independent referral practice specialising in small animal orthopaedic and spinal surgery, based in Poole on the south coast of England.

We are seeking a full-time or part-time orthopaedic surgeon to join our busy and well-established practice. The successful applicant will work alongside two very experienced RCVS Diplomates, one of whom also holds ECVN and ECVSMR Diplomas. Applicants should ideally hold an RCVS or ECVS Diploma, or have completed an ECVS residency.

Our newly refurbished premises are fully equipped to support a comprehensive range of orthopaedic and spinal procedures, including THR, ESF, CUE, and PGR. Imaging facilities include a GE CT scanner, Fujifilm digital radiography, and arthroscopy (both standard and Nano).

The successful candidate will demonstrate excellent communication skills and a strong commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient care. We offer excellent working conditions and a generous, flexible remuneration package, tailored to qualifications, experience, and the number of days worked per week. You will be supported by an outstanding team of experienced, friendly, and dedicated support staff.

The practice is ideally located within easy reach of award-winning beaches and the New Forest National Park. Southampton and Bournemouth airports are nearby, and there are excellent road and rail links to London.

To apply, please email your CV, a covering letter, and contact details for two referees to Harry Scott at harry@wessexvetortho.com.

For an informal enquiry, please call or WhatsApp Philip Witte on 07775 091723.