Lead Veterinarian

About the organization

A nonprofit organization dedicated to animal welfare and the protection of animals in the Peninsula area of the San Francisco Bay Area in California that offers various services and programs focused on animal care, adoption, education, and advocacy.

Position Overview

The role is responsible for ensuring the highest quality of veterinary and humane care for all animals, in line with the organization's policies, California Veterinary Medical Board standards, and state laws. This includes establishing and overseeing veterinary medical policies, performing services, and facilitating communication and education for staff, volunteers, and the public on veterinary issues such as zoonotic diseases. The primary focus is on the health and welfare of the animals under the veterinarian's care.

Responsibilities:

• Recommend, develop and implement veterinary medical protocols and procedures for all departments and programs.

• Monitor health of the shelter population and work collaboratively with shelter managers to recognize, contain and treat contagious diseases, including zoonotic diseases.

• Mentor, guide, train and advise Veterinarians, staff and volunteers to promote better animal husbandry and excellence in veterinary medical care. Train Staff Veterinarians as needed and as appropriate.

• Regularly conduct rounds with Staff Veterinarians to discuss medical and surgical cases

• Ensure animal medical records are maintained as required by law.

• Ensure every animal has a clear and concise plan regarding any medical condition(s), diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.

• Act as a liaison for the public and staff regarding concerns, disputes or misconceptions of animal medical care.

• Act as the primary contact person for situations that may arise involving the public related to organization’s policies and procedures and veterinary medical care.

• Maintain California Veterinary License in good standing. Pursue adequate and appropriate continuing education to continue to provide the Standard of Care.

• Maintain current premise permits and DEA licenses for the organization facilities as appropriate and as required by law.

• Serve as the Supervising Veterinarian for all Veterinary Assistant Controlled Substance Permits.

• Be available to advise veterinary department managers on occasion regarding after hours emergencies.

• Examine, diagnose and prescribe treatment for animals in our care as needed and as appropriate.

• Provide emergency medical care as needed.

• Consult with specialists on specific medical cases when appropriate.

• Perform surgical sterilization of owned and shelter dogs, cats and rabbits. Perform other surgical procedures as indicated.

• Perform and assist as needed in the daily activities of the Department

• Euthanize and/or assist with euthanasia of animals as needed in accordance with our policies and procedures and California state law.

• Assist Animal Rescue & Control, Humane Investigations and/or the District Attorney in the investigation and prosecution of cases of animal cruelty or neglect. Perform and record necropsies as needed. Appear in court to substantiate findings as necessary.

• Work with Veterinary Services managers to ensure department equipment in good working order.

• Provide staff, volunteer and public educational lectures as needed.

• Participate in writing educational materials and articles for the organization.

• Participate in periodic vaccine clinics, educational programs and special events as needed.

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with at least 5 years of clinical experience (preferably in shelter medicine) or an equivalent combination of education and experience; supervisory experience preferred.

• Valid California Veterinary License in good standing and DEA license.

• Valid California Driver’s License with a satisfactory driving record.

• Must pass a background check upon hire.

• Proficiency in Chameleon database software within six months, and basic Microsoft Office skills.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively in stressful situations.

• Ability to remain calm, flexible, and open to new ideas.

• Basic math skills for unit, weight, and volume measurement.

• Compassionate care for all animals, regardless of species or temperament.

• Ability to work independently.

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