Relief Veterinarian

Humane Society of Sarasota County•Sarasota, FL

113d

About The Position

The Humane Society of Sarasota County is seeking a compassionate, skilled Relief Veterinarian to support its Veterinary Services team on an as-needed basis. The role offers an $800 daily rate and a flexible schedule of relief shifts. The veterinarian provides medical and surgical care to shelter dogs and cats, helping prepare animals for adoption, foster placement, transfer, or other positive outcomes. The position works collaboratively with veterinary technicians, assistants, animal care staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers, while taking ownership of patient care and handling challenging situations with professionalism, empathy, and resilience.

Requirements

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent.
Active, unrestricted Florida veterinary license.
Strong surgical and clinical skills, with confidence working independently.
Ability to communicate effectively with veterinary teams, shelter staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers.
Ability to work collaboratively while taking ownership of patient care.
Professionalism, empathy, and resilience when handling challenging and emotional situations.
Experience with diagnostics, preventive medicine, and electronic medical records.
Ability to safely handle animals of varying sizes and temperaments.
Availability to work scheduled relief shifts as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience in shelter medicine or high-volume spay/neuter surgery is strongly preferred.
Fear Free Shelter Certification.
Familiarity with Association of Shelter Veterinarians (ASV) Guidelines.

Responsibilities

Perform high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter surgeries for shelter dogs and cats.
Examine, diagnose, and treat a variety of medical conditions.
Develop treatment plans and prescribe medications.
Provide preventive care, including vaccinations, parasite prevention, and routine wellness services.
Perform additional surgical procedures or dental services based on experience and scheduled needs.
Monitor surgical patients and provide post-operative care.
Collaborate with veterinary technicians, assistants, and animal care staff to deliver patient care.
Maintain accurate medical records using the electronic shelter management system.
Help ensure animals are medically ready for adoption, foster placement, transfer, or other positive outcomes.
Provide compassionate, humane euthanasia when necessary, in accordance with accepted veterinary standards and organizational policies.