Veterinarian-Thaw Animal Clinic-Part Time at Santa Fe Animal Shelter Inc – Santa Fe, New Mexico

Position Summary

The Veterinarian provides high-quality medical, surgical, and preventive care to animal patients while delivering exceptional client service. This role supports the hospital’s mission by promoting animal health, strengthening the human–animal bond, and contributing to a collaborative and compassionate team environment. At Thaw Animal Hospital all of the revenue made is used to save animals at the shelter as we are one organization.

Key Responsibilities

Medical Care

• Perform comprehensive physical examinations and diagnostic evaluations
• Diagnose and treat medical conditions and injuries
• Develop and implement treatment plans
• Prescribe medications and therapies
• Perform routine and advanced surgical procedures (spay/neuter, soft tissue surgery, dentistry, etc.)
• Interpret diagnostic tests (bloodwork, cytology, radiographs, etc.)
• Provide emergency care as needed

Preventive Medicine

• Administer vaccinations and parasite prevention
• Educate clients on wellness, nutrition, behavior, and preventative care
• Promote heartworm prevention and routine wellness screening

Client Communication

• Communicate diagnoses, treatment options, and prognoses clearly and compassionately
• Obtain informed consent for procedures
• Provide follow-up care instructions
• Handle sensitive conversations, including quality-of-life discussions and euthanasia

Record Keeping & Compliance

• Maintain accurate and timely medical records
• Follow hospital SOPs and medical standards
• Ensure compliance with state veterinary practice regulations
• Adhere to DEA and controlled substance protocols

Team Collaboration

• Supervise and support veterinary technicians and assistants
• Provide medical leadership and mentorship
• Participate in staff meetings and training
• Foster a positive, respectful workplace culture

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree from an accredited institution
• Active veterinary license in the state of employment
• DEA license (or ability to obtain)
• Strong diagnostic and surgical skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to continuing education

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in high-volume practice or shelter medicine (if applicable)
• Interest in dentistry, surgery, behavior, or another specialty area
• Fear-Free or Low-Stress Handling certification (preferred but not required)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and restrain animals up to 50+ pounds with assistance
• Prolonged periods of standing and performing surgery
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment