Associate Veterinarian

Essential Job Functions

• Provide excellent patient care by performing physical examinations, diagnosing and treating diseases, and providing preventive care.
• Utilize a problem‑based approach including developing a complete problem list, differential diagnoses, a diagnostic plan, and appropriate treatments based on test results.
• Document all patient observations, findings, treatments, medications, client interactions, and diagnoses in the medical record concisely.
• Perform routine and complex surgical procedures such as spays/neuters, abdominal explorations, and mass removals.
• Perform routine and complex dental procedures including full examinations, evaluation of dental radiographs, extractions, and oral surgical procedures.
• Develop treatment plans for patients undergoing day hospitalization, transition patients to overnight care as needed, and communicate effectively with referral hospitals.

Other Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in rounds as an incoming or exiting doctor at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Disseminate knowledge throughout staff to improve the level of care and communication with patients and clients.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Nature of Supervision

Veterinarians receive direct supervision from the Hospital Medical Leader or Area Medical Director. They provide patient‑care decisions but must follow Petco Veterinary SOPs and accept feedback to elevate patient care.

Planning and Problem Solving

Strong problem‑solving skills are required for expeditious diagnosis of patient problems.

Impact

The position contributes to the growth of a productive practice while maintaining a high‑quality standard of care, supporting employee retention, patient well‑being, and customer satisfaction.

Supervisory Responsibility

The veterinarian has no direct supervisory responsibilities, but serves as a de facto leader within the hospital.

Education and Experience

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree or equivalent from an AVMA‑accredited veterinary school.
• Active licensure as a veterinarian without contingencies in the state of the hospital or ability to obtain by start date.
• Current DEA license.
• Current Controlled Substance License, if applicable, in the state of the hospital or ability to obtain by start date.
• USDA Category I (minimum) accreditation or completion within two months of hire.
• Comfortable performing anesthesia and routine surgeries, including canine and feline spays, neuters, mass removals, and dental procedures.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Compassionate and able to maintain a professional attitude in emotional and stressful situations.
• Proficient with telephone and computer use.
• Team player willing to learn new techniques, offer creative ideas, and accept change.

Work Environment

The majority of duties are conducted in the Veterinary Hospital. The position requires bending, kneeling, lifting (up to 30 pounds), and standing for long periods. A large portion of time is spent in direct contact with clients and pets.

Contacts

Regular communication with clients, veterinary specialists, and product or service providers.

EEO Statement

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or any other protected classification.