RELIEF VETERINARIAN

FOOTHILLS ANIMAL SHELTER • Golden, CO

6d • $90 - $90 • Onsite

About The Position

The Relief Veterinarian works on an as-needed basis to cover staff vacations and other planned time off. The role primarily performs surgical procedures, including spay/neuter, dentistry, and general surgeries, and may also conduct medical rounds for shelter patients. The veterinarian oversees shelter-animal treatment, provides emergency care, advises staff on veterinary practices and herd health, and makes medical recommendations related to adoption candidacy and euthanasia.

Requirements

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) degree from an AVMA-accredited school of veterinary medicine.
• Three years of experience practicing veterinary medicine in a private practice or shelter setting with a heavy surgical load.
• Veterinary license in good standing.
• Current veterinary malpractice insurance policy.
• Fear Free Shelter certification, or ability to become certified within 60 days of employment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to analyze and solve problems effectively.
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment and effectively with volunteers.
• Ability to provide constructive feedback positively and facilitate difficult conversations.
• Ability to remain calm in emergency situations.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Shelter medicine experience.

Responsibilities

• Perform sterilization surgeries, dentistry, and other surgical procedures.
• Oversee treatment of shelter animals, conduct medical rounds, and maintain accurate medical records in the shelter database.
• Provide emergency care to injured animals brought to the Shelter.
• Recommend adoption candidacy based on animals’ medical conditions and determine when euthanasia is the most appropriate outcome based on available resources and ability to maintain quality of life.
• Model Fear Free veterinary practices and support staff in implementing Fear Free techniques.
• Advise staff on veterinary topics and procedures to ensure herd health, including vaccination, deworming, medication, and quarantine or isolation procedures.
• Promote and follow safety guidelines, and take immediate action to address safety concerns or noncompliance that could put staff, volunteers, patrons, animals, or the organization at risk.

What This Job Offers

• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree