After graduating from the University of Liverpool, Peter Dickson built a career rooted in clinical excellence, exotic animal care, and team leadership. Now a Clinical Director at White Cross Vets Kings Heath, he shares what makes the role rewarding, how he’s developing his skills, and why no two days in practice are ever the same.
I graduated from the University of Liverpool in 2016, having always known that I wanted to work in small animal practice. My first role was at a practice in Warwickshire, which I started later that same year. After gaining a solid foundation during that first year, I moved to the Kings Heath branch of White Cross Vets, where I’ve continued to grow both personally and professionally.
Since joining White Cross Vets, I’ve taken on several roles, starting as a veterinary surgeon and then progressing to senior veterinary surgeon. I’m now proud to be working as a clinical director, leading a dedicated and compassionate team. Each step of the journey has been incredibly rewarding and has helped shape the vet and leader I am today.
I genuinely can't remember a time when I wasn’t fascinated by animals and the natural world. That sense of wonder has always been a part of who I am. From a young age, I knew I wanted to help animals - and just as importantly, support the people who care for them. Working in the veterinary sector allows me to do both, and that continues to inspire me every day.
My day varies depending on whether I’m on a consulting or operating shift. Consulting days typically involve around six hours of appointments, covering everything from routine preventative care like vaccinations to diagnosing and treating pets who are unwell. These consults often involve further diagnostic testing and treatment planning within the appointment.
Operating shifts are a little different. We usually begin with a shorter consult period - about two hours - and then spend the rest of the day carrying out surgeries and procedures. These can range from routine operations to more complex diagnostics like ultrasound scans. Every day brings something new, which keeps the job fresh and engaging.
Spending my day around animals is a joy in itself, but there’s something especially rewarding about seeing an unwell pet make a full recovery. I have a particular interest in exotic species, and getting the chance to treat a wide variety of animals keeps the work exciting and fulfilling. No two days are the same, and I can honestly say I’ve never found this job boring - it’s always interesting and often incredibly rewarding.
One of the most satisfying aspects of the job is being able to reassure worried clients and help their pets return to full health. It feels good when we’re able to identify an issue quickly and resolve it with veterinary care. That sense of trust and relief from the client - and the improvement in the pet - is what makes the work so meaningful.
We’re fortunate to have a large and skilled team at the Kings Heath branch. There are 8 vets, 10 nurses, 3 Veterinary Care Assistants (VCAs), and 5 Client Care Coordinators (CCCs). It’s a diverse group with a wide range of clinical interests and expertise, and we work collaboratively to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. There’s a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support within the team, and that really enhances the working environment.
The people. White Cross Vets is full of kind, driven individuals who treat every animal as if it were their own. There’s a real sense of community, and that extends to how we work with our clients as well. Our wellness plan is a fantastic initiative that helps remove some of the financial barriers clients might face when seeking care for their pets, which means we can offer more preventative and proactive healthcare. That’s something I’m really proud to be part of.
If you have a passion for animal welfare, you’ll fit right in. Our team works closely together, and there’s a strong culture of support, learning, and shared purpose. It’s a great place to grow your skills while working in a positive, inclusive environment.
I’m currently completing a General Practitioner’s Certificate in Exotic Animal Practice. This is an area I’ve always had a strong personal and professional interest in. I have several exotic pets at home, many of whom I’ve rescued over the years. Being able to offer high-quality care to exotic species, who can often struggle to access appropriate veterinary support, is very important to me. It’s a deeply rewarding area of practice.
I have quite a few! Over the years, I’ve rescued and cared for many animals, and they’re a huge part of my life. I have a cat named Francis, a lovebird named Stevie, a parrotlet named Oscar, and a tortoise named Sheldon. I also share my home with two lizards - Giles and Pascal - six snakes (Patsy, Dave, Tim, Eddie, Klaus, and Diego), two tree frogs (Cecil and Celia), five fish tanks, and a collection of tarantulas.
One day, I’d love to have a parrot - but they’re a significant, lifelong commitment, and with my current crew, I’ve got plenty to keep me busy!
Spending time with my pets is a great way to decompress. It’s a calming and grounding part of my routine. I also enjoy reading, gardening, and playing video games - activities that help me switch off and recharge after a busy day.
I’m a big fan of squash and snow sports, and I love getting out into the countryside for long walks. I also enjoy video games and reading - they’re a great balance to the more active parts of my lifestyle.