Lead Veterinarian

Position Summary:

C.A.R.E.4Paws is looking for a full-time lead veterinarian for our Mobile Community Medicine & Spay/Neuter Outreach program, which provides free and low-cost spays/neuters, veterinary care and vaccine clinics for families in need in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties.

We have two mobile units and typically work out of one or two units during most clinic events.

• The lead veterinarian provides a range of surgical procedures and medical services, including high-quality spays/neuters, mass removals, hernia repairs, medical exams, and treatment of wounds, infections and minor injuries.
• Tasks include interpreting blood work results, pain management and overseeing anesthesia recovery. 
• The lead veterinarian works closely with C.A.R.E.4Paws’ Deputy Director, lead Clinic Veterinary Technician and Clinic Services Coordinator.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform spays/neuters and other surgeries scheduled for the day.
• Provide medical exams to diagnose and treat patients scheduled inside the mobile clinic(s).
• Answer questions the Pet Wellness Clinic Coordinator may have during the walk-in Pet Wellness Clinic, which takes place outside the mobile units from 10am to 1pm. 
• Follow all protocols and procedures as set forth by C.A.R.E.4Paws.
• Work with the Deputy Director and lead Clinic Veterinary Technician to ensure compliance with all regulating bodies.
• Partner with the Deputy Director and Clinic Services Coordinator to determine the appropriate surgical load and schedule.
• Ensure that appropriate vaccination recommendations are made.
• Oversee all aspects of assigned patients, including, but not limited to, physical examination, surgery, pre- and post-operative care, anesthetic protocols, patient monitoring and emergency response.
• Partner with the lead clinic technician to ensure that the clinic is appropriately stocked.
• Work with the lead clinic technician to ensure smooth patient flow.
• Respond to medical issues involving patients as necessary.
• Communicate any issues concerning staff or patients to the Deputy Director.
• Communicate any issues regarding the clinic’s disease control protocols, surgical protocols, or other medical items with the lead clinic technician and Deputy Director.
• Attend monthly staff meetings and other meetings as scheduled.
• Occasionally, work will be done in physically challenging conditions, as it is completed in a confined space where loud noises, disease and exposure to hazards may be possible.
• Have reliable transportation to and from mobile clinic locations.
• Work with the lead clinic technician and Deputy Director to continuously evaluate and strengthen protocols and procedures.

Requirements: 

• DVM degree from an accredited university 
• California veterinary license or ability to obtain a California license within 30 days
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to foster a positive work environment and promote a caring attitude toward all animals and pet families
• Willingness to provide training and guidance to staff as needed

Preferred Qualifications: 

• Experience working in shelter medicine 
• Experience working in high-volume spay/neuter clinics and/or mobile clinic setting

Work Schedule:

• We operate our clinics Tuesday through Friday and every other Sunday. We alternate locations throughout Santa Barbara County daily and work about twice monthly in San Luis Obispo County. 
• Large events may require Saturday and Sunday clinics a few times a year.
• Hours are typically 9am-3pm.

Salary: 

$180,000-$190,000 per year for full-time (32-40 hours per week)

Benefits:

Employer paid health insurance

California Veterinary License annual renewal

Veterinary Liability Insurance

DEA License renewal

Mileage reimbursement for travel to clinic locations more than 45 minutes from your home address

Premises License: 

Option to hold C.A.R.E.4Paws’ premises license for a monthly stipend.