Small Animal Surgeon - Companion Animal Specialty and Emergency

Small Animal Surgeon - Companion Animal Specialty and Emergency

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.

We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

You care for pets. We care for you.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager. Candidates with an interest in leadership positions are encouraged to ask about our Specialty Medical Director opportunity at this location!

Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital (CASE)

In Crystal Lake, IL, CASE is an advanced facility committed to providing outstanding care to companion animals in the greater McHenry County region. It offers Emergency, Internal Medicine, and Rehabilitation services with a comprehensive collaborative approach to both inpatients and outpatients.

Why Join Us

• Only 24/7 specialty, referral, and emergency center in the area, offering diverse cases and ongoing professional development.
• State-of-the-art diagnostic modalities and therapeutic procedures, including on-site CT imaging.
• Convenient location ~50 miles northwest of Chicago, with a vibrant community.

What We Offer

We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include:

• Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team Member Pet Discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups
• Client communication and education
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
• Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
• Evaluate and monitor protocols for daily hospital operations from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases and attend daily rounds to uphold high standards
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
• Performs other duties as assigned by Management

Qualifications (Required)

• Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
• 1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice)
• Completed a 3‑year, AVMA approved residency program
• Current State Veterinary License
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
• Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to providing compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
• Client communication skills: elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations to pet owners
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain
• May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
• Some tasks involve moderately physically demanding work
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Board Certification
• 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency
• Clinical knowledge and skills: demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals; perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations; diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment
• Problem‑Solving: develop solutions to challenges related to the management of a high‑quality veterinary hospital
• Communication Skills: demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients; communicate with internal medical and hospital staff
• Professionalism: work as part of a high‑quality professional veterinary team; provide and receive constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback
• Business Acumen: understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice
• Ethics: knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients
• Commitment to Continuing Education: utilize available resources and facilitate learning of others

Pay Range

$180,000 — $250,000 USD

Equal Opportunity Employer

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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