Associate Veterinarian - Small Animal

Sheldon Veterinary Medical Center is looking for a full-time companion animal-focused Associate Veterinarian to join our growing, well-established practice — new graduates are welcome! Beyond our own team, you’ll have mentorship and case collaboration access across two additional Animal Medical Centers locations, giving you more support than a typical small-town practice offers.

Highlights

• Join a collaborative 2.5-doctor team with mentorship access across two additional Animal Medical Centers locations (Hartley and Spencer)
• Practice quality medicine backed by advanced equipment — in-house blood analyzers, digital X-ray, therapeutic laser, gas anesthesia, and full surgical monitoring
• Charming downtown Northwest Iowa, just an hour from the Iowa Great Lakes for outdoor recreation, with favorable on-call and weekend expectations

About Us

Sheldon Veterinary Medical Center is a well-established companion animal practice in Northwest Iowa, currently staffed by a 2.5-doctor team that values quality medicine, teamwork, and strong community relationships.

Associates also benefit from mentorship and case collaboration with veterinarians at two additional Animal Medical Centers locations — Hartley and Spencer — expanding your support network well beyond our own clinic.

You’ll be working alongside:

• Dr. Sandra Schmith (Iowa State ‘87)
• Dr. Rebecca Cuperus (Minnesota ‘03)
• Dr. Megan Klein (Iowa State ‘24)
• Dr. Jeremy Stuart (Kansas State ‘06) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Aaron Nystrom (Minnesota ‘10) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Katie Paulus (Iowa State ‘11) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Lisa Yeske-Livermore (Iowa State ‘15) – Hartley, IA
• Dr. Mark Rees (Iowa State ‘95) – Spencer, IA
• Dr. Jeremy Bedford (Iowa State ‘01) – Spencer, IA
• Dr. Janessa Mechler (Iowa State ‘09) – Spencer, IA
• Dr. Victoria Foerster (Iowa State ‘11) – Spencer, IA
• Dr. Katie Kiepe (Iowa State ‘22) – Spencer, IA

About This Role

• Provide comprehensive medical, surgical, and preventive care for small animal patients
• Develop accurate treatment plans using in-house diagnostics and digital radiography
• Collaborate closely with a well-trained, experienced support staff
• Maintain strong communication and build lasting relationships with a loyal client base
• DVM or VMD degree required; active Iowa veterinary license, or eligibility to obtain one prior to start date

About You

• Open to experienced veterinarians and new graduates alike who are seeking strong mentorship
• Dedicated to team collaboration and high-quality patient care
• Comfortable building lasting relationships with clients and colleagues
• Motivated by mentorship and continuous learning across a broader network of practices

Our Location

Sheldon is located in Northwest Iowa, offering a charming downtown shopping atmosphere and genuine hometown hospitality. The Iowa Great Lakes area is about an hour away, offering excellent outdoor recreation opportunities.

Our Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Competitive PTO plan
• CE Allowance, including paid time off for training
• Professional liability insurance and association dues covered
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401K with employer match
• Full Benefits Package (STD, LTD, Life, Accident, + more!)
• Up to eight weeks PAID parental leave* (after 6 months)
• Accelerated ownership opportunity with our Associate Equity Program!

*6 weeks paid medical recovery time for birth mothers + 2 weeks paid bonding time for all parents

Powered by Partnership

Sheldon Veterinary Medical Center has partnered with Heritage Vet Partners (HVP), the nation’s leading veterinary partnership for mixed and large animal practices. HVP values the legacy and customer relationships that practices have built and aims to enhance that foundation with exceptional support.

Together, we can better meet the changing needs of our customers and the industry. Partner practices and veterinarians share in HVP’s success through stock ownership while maintaining existing leadership and culture.

HVP currently has multiple locations throughout the US with a vast offering of practice types and specialties! Visit us at to learn more!