Shelter Veterinarian

Position Purpose/Summary

Primary function is to provide high-quality veterinary care to animals in the care and custody of the Thomas J. O'Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center (TJO). Assists in developing, advancing, and implementing shelter medicine protocols and delivers and ensures humane medical treatment of all animals. This position also works with the District Attorney and law enforcement on cases of animal cruelty. This position reports to the Executive Director. Supervision is exercised over a team that includes veterinary technicians and clinic volunteers.

Essential Functions

• Examines, diagnoses, and performs routine and emergency medical treatment on all adoption center animals.

• Vaccinate animals against diseases common to species of animals found in shelters, and according to applicable law.

• Prepares quarantine reports for City and State which require veterinary title; report reportable diseases to City and State as required.

• Performs surgical sterilizations; emergency or reparative surgeries, including dentals on all species.

• Maintain patient medical/surgical records.

• Provides consultation to staff regarding euthanasia based on animal's physical and behavioral condition. Performs humane euthanasia.

• Oversees drug and medical supplies inventory ensuring DEA requirements are met.

• Establish and maintain relationships with community and relief veterinarians.

• Oversees that appropriate personnel have been trained to administer vaccines, perform tests, euthanasia, and other medical procedures.

• Work alongside animal care team to prevent and control disease in the shelter animal population.

• Reports suspected cruelty as required by law. Prepares reports for suspected cruelty and builds relationships with MSPCA, police, DAs. Testifies in court when needed.

• Provides after-hours communication with TJO staff or emergency veterinary staff for guidance or recommendations on injured animals.

• When designated, acts as a media spokesperson for TJO on topics relevant to veterinary medicine and animal care.

• Attends community vaccination clinics and other programs offered by TJO.

• Performs other duties as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• The ability to make decisions and communicate clearly and effectively with fellow team members.

• Respect for and willingness to work with animals and owners from a variety of backgrounds.

• Background in small animal medicine and surgery; experience with small animal dental procedures and radiographs.

• Vast knowledge of shelter veterinary medicine.

• Knowledge of health law and regulations.

• A commitment to practicing the highest standard of medicine, upholding the veterinary code of ethics.

• A high level of professionalism and strong interpersonal skills.

• Able to deal effectively and politely with people from various backgrounds and experience and in all types of difficult situations. This person must have definite abilities to evaluate problems accurately and display sound judgment when working under stressful conditions.

Education and Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD) or equivalent degree.

• Two (2) years of experience working in a shelter environment.

• Current Massachusetts Veterinary License in good standing.

• Must maintain mal-practice insurance.