Staff Veterinarian

About the role

We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Staff Veterinarian to join a dedicated veterinary team serving animals in a shelter environment. This role provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact by delivering high-quality medical care and supporting the health and welfare of animals in need.

The ideal candidate will collaborate with an experienced veterinary team to support a well-established shelter medical program focused on providing excellent care, improving outcomes, and helping animals find loving homes.

Position Summary

The Staff Veterinarian ensures the highest quality veterinary medical care and humane treatment for animals in the organization’s care, in accordance with established policies, the California Veterinary Medical Board, and applicable state laws.

This role includes performing medical evaluations, surgical procedures, spay and neuter surgeries, and ongoing treatment plans while maintaining animal health and welfare as the top priority.

Veterinarians in this role contribute to improving animal welfare, relieving suffering, protecting public health, and advancing veterinary medical knowledge.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Examine, diagnose, and prescribe treatment for animals in care.
• Provide emergency medical care when needed.
• Perform surgical sterilization procedures (spay/neuter) for dogs, cats, and rabbits.
• Perform additional surgical procedures as indicated.

Monitor the health of the shelter population and collaborate with staff to identify, manage, and treat contagious diseases, including zoonotic diseases.

• Participate in medical and surgical case discussions with veterinary staff.
• Maintain accurate and legally compliant medical records.
• Develop clear medical treatment plans and document diagnoses, treatment, and prognosis.
• Provide staff with clear communication regarding medical conditions and treatment plans.
• Consult with veterinary specialists when appropriate.
• Participate in community vaccination clinics.
• Conduct diagnostic procedures such as x-rays, bloodwork, cytology, and fecal testing.
• Perform necropsies and prepare reports when required.
• Occasionally serve as an after-hours contact for emergencies and provide guidance to animal care staff.
• Induce and maintain anesthesia and monitor animals during surgical procedures.
• Ensure surgical and medical equipment is maintained and functioning properly.
• Assist with educational materials and outreach when needed.
• Provide humane care and treatment to all animals.
• Perform or assist with euthanasia procedures when necessary and in accordance with applicable regulations.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and sanitary work environment.
• Supervisory Responsibilities

Provides leadership and guidance to Registered Veterinary Technicians, Veterinary Assistants, and department volunteers.

Qualifications

To perform this role successfully, candidates must be able to perform essential duties effectively. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Must be able to pass a background check upon hire
• Part-time candidates must be available at least 2 weekdays per week (Monday–Friday)

Education & Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree required
• Minimum 1 year of clinical experience preferred
• Experience working in a fast-paced veterinary or clinical environment
• Shelter medicine experience is highly desirable but not required