Priory Lodge Vets is a small animal practice in the heart of Tonbridge, caring for dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small pets for the local community. We’re well-equipped — digital X-ray, ultrasound, a dedicated sterile theatre, and in-house diagnostics — and we’re part of the wider Pennard Vets group, which means the resources and support of a larger organisation, without losing the close-knit feel of a local practice.

We’re independent and under clinical leadership, which means the people making decisions about how we care for animals are the same people doing the caring. Clinical standards matter here at every level — including how patients are housed, handled, and monitored, not just what happens in theatre. If you want to learn properly and be trusted to do things right, you’ll find that here.

The Role

Behind every great consultation is a team that made it possible

We’re looking for a brilliant Animal Care Assistant to join our Priory Lodge practice. You’ll be working closely with our nursing and vet teams — helping to care for inpatients, preparing animals for procedures, keeping our clinical environment running to the highest standard, and making sure every patient in our care feels as calm and comfortable as possible.

This is a 40-hour-per-week role and includes every Saturday as a standard part of your working week. If weekends are a dealbreaker, this probably isn’t the right fit — but if you’re happy to be part of a team that keeps going when pets need us most, you’ll be very welcome here.

At Pennard Vets, we believe every pet deserves the right care, in the right way, at the right time. As an Animal Care Assistant, you’re not just supporting the clinical team — you’re a vital part of delivering that.

What your days will look like

 Caring for inpatients — monitoring their comfort, welfare, and recovery, and flagging anything that doesn’t look right to the nursing team.

 Preparing animals and treatment areas ahead of procedures, and assisting nurses and vets during consultations and ward rounds.

 Maintaining a clean, safe, and well-stocked clinical environment — because good care depends on good foundations.

 Handling animals with patience and confidence, putting nervous patients (and their owners) at ease throughout their visit.

 Being part of a busy, energetic practice team where no two days are the same — and where what you do makes a genuine difference to the animals in your care.

You’ll Fit Right In If You…

What we really need is someone with a genuine passion for animal welfare, the confidence to handle patients of all temperaments, and the focus to work well in a fast-paced clinical environment. You’ll thrive here if you take ownership of your work, notice the details, and care about getting things right — even when it’s busy.

No formal veterinary experience is required. We’ll give you full training, a brilliant team around you, and all the support you need to grow in the role. The rest is down to you bringing your commitment and care for animals.

What We Bring to the Table

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Pennard Vets is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.

If you need any adjustments to the application or interview process, just let us know.