Associate Veterinarian

VCA Animal Hospitals • Des Moines, IA

11d • Onsite

About The Position

Join us as an Associate Veterinarian, DVM, at VCA Avondale Veterinary Hospital in Des Moines, IA and you’ll quickly discover that you’re well supported by world-class medicine, technology, facilities, and a talented team. You’ll be empowered to do your best work with a team you can count on. At VCA, the future of veterinary medicine is in our hands. At VCA Avondale Animal Hospital, you can truly practice medicine your way. We’re an AAHA-accredited, Fear Free Certified, and Gold-Level Cat Friendly practice located in Des Moines, IA. Our hospital is home to a dedicated, close-knit team of patient advocates who care deeply about great medicine and client communication. When fully staffed, we’re a 5–6 doctor hospital supported by a caring team that’s actively growing. While we primarily serve dogs and cats, we welcome veterinarians with interest in exotics or pocket pets. You’ll also enjoy access to special services and equipment including a full rehab room, echocardiogram and ultrasound, laparoscopic surgery, orthopedic capabilities, and a separate cat hospital. Our culture blends the personal, relationship-driven feel of a community practice with the resources and professional network of VCA. Whether you’re a seasoned veterinarian or a recent graduate, you’ll benefit from mentorship, CE opportunities through WOOF University, and a network of over 4,500 VCA doctors—including 600+ specialists. Beyond the hospital, you’ll be part of the South Des Moines community, where we build lasting client relationships and partner closely with the Animal Lifeline of Iowa, a rescue for special needs animals. Located just minutes from downtown, Altoona, and Indianola, you’ll have easy access to all that Des Moines has to offer.

Requirements

• A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, from an accredited university or equivalent
• Licensure in good standing to practice in (IA), or the ability to obtain
• A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine and upholding the veterinary code of ethics

Nice To Haves

• Interest in exotics or pocket pets.
• Recent graduates or seasoned veterinarians.
• Experience with AAHA-accredited, Fear Free Certified, and Gold-Level Cat Friendly practices.

Responsibilities

• See a wide variety of cases, from routine wellness and preventive care to advanced diagnostics and procedures.
• Focus on areas such as Dentistry, Ultrasound and echocardiography, Orthopedics and laparoscopic surgery, Rehabilitation medicine.
• Potential to expand into exotics or pocket pets.
• Explain conditions and treatment plans to clients.
• Provide feline patients with a calm, dedicated space in the separate cat hospital.

Benefits

• Innovative Associate health and well-being resources (Headspace app, Fidelity financial wellness tool, and access to additional mental health resources including Lyra Health)
• 401k retirement savings plan with company match
• Health/dental/vision insurance
• Infertility and gender affirmation benefits
• Paid parental, vacation and sick leave
• Continuing Education Allowance and paid Continuing Education Days
• WOOF University – offering abundant CE for Doctors and the care team
• Opportunities to participate in a robust Clinical Studies program
• Generous employee pet discounts

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree