Employer of Choice Spotlight: A Chat with Head Veterinarian - Dr Dave Rankin - Wanganui Vet Services and Vets on Carlton

Discover the heart and soul of rural veterinary practice through Dr Dave Rankin's eyes as he celebrates 30 years with Wanganui Vet Services - sister clinic to Vets on Carlton.  Dr Dave's journey shows what makes a veterinary workplace truly special – the deep bonds formed with farming families across generations, the satisfaction of mentoring young professionals, and the joy of practicing diverse medicine from pregnancy testing cattle to performing emergency small animal surgeries.What stands out in this conversation is Dr Dave's people-first approach to veterinary medicine. "My team's always stronger than the individual," he explains, describing how everyone from receptionists to nurses plays a vital role in clinic success. This philosophy extends to professional development, where staff members are encouraged to pursue their passions – even when it means sending a primarily large animal vet like Dr Dave, to a small animal dental course!The clinic's thoughtful approach to after-hours work demonstrates their commitment to staff wellbeing. New veterinarians receive approximately six months lead-in before joining the on-call roster, and when they do, a tiered support system ensures they're never alone. This structure, combined with extra annual leave, helps address one of the profession's most challenging aspects.Beyond the clinic, Whanganui itself offers an enviable lifestyle. "Everyone forgets we're a seaside city," Dr Dave shares, describing how he can be fishing, skiing, or hiking within minutes of home. With good schools, a pleasant climate, and a central location, it's the perfect setting for veterinary professionals seeking work-life balance.Want to join a veterinary team where you're truly valued? Visit vetclinicjobs.com/vets-on-carlton to learn more about opportunities at this Veterinary Clinic Employer of Choice, where you can apply directly with no recruitment agency involved.   As Dr Dave puts it, "Our clinics allow people to be themselves and to grow in an environment that is fully supported."Could Your Kind of People recognise Their Kind of Clinic?A job ad may catch a vet’s or nurse’s eye. But it’s their own due diligence that determines whether they apply—or keep in touch.Culture Story Centres turn real experiences from inside your team into credible, discoverable recruitment evidence, giving vets and nurses meaningful reasons to choose your clinic.Explore Culture Story Centres for veterinary clinics