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Associate Veterinarian - Small Animal
Career Insights for Veterinarian
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Scorecard
Based on Pennsylvania data
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What they do
A Veterinarian provides medical care to animals. Diagnoses and treats illnesses and injuries. Specializes in treating either pets and small domesticated animals, or large animals and livestock, or wild animals. May work on farms, in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, in animal shelters, or in hospitals or clinics that specialize in caring for animals. May inspect livestock used for food and check compliance with food safety regulations, or work in laboratories doing clinical research on animal and human diseases.
$114,372 / year median in Pennsylvania
+11% projected growth
Job Description
- Full-Time or Part-Time
- In-person Key Responsibilities Medical & Clinical Care
- Perform thorough physical examinations and diagnostic workups on small companion animals.
- Diagnose and treat acute illnesses, injuries, and chronic medical conditions.
- Develop tailored treatment, pain management, and nutritional plans for patients.
- Prescribe medications, vaccines, and therapeutic treatments in accordance with state and federal regulations. Surgery & Dentistry
- Perform routine soft-tissue surgical procedures (e.g., spays, neuters, mass removals, laceration repairs) as well as the opportunity to perform more complex surgeries including but not limited to: splenectomies, cystotomies, amputations, PU, etc.
- Conduct dental assessments, cleanings, extractions, and minor oral surgeries.
- Monitor anesthesia and post-operative recovery alongside veterinary technician. Client Communication & Education
- Communicate diagnostic findings, treatment options, and prognoses clearly and compassionately to pet owners.
- Educate clients on preventative care, nutrition, parasite control, and behavior modification.
- Support clients during sensitive moments, including end-of-life decision-making and humane euthanasia. Team Leadership & Operations
- Collaborate effectively with veterinary technicians, assistants, and client service representatives.
- Maintain accurate, up-to-date, and detailed electronic medical records (EMR).
- Ensure compliance with
OSHA, DEA
regulations, and local veterinary board standards. Qualifications & RequirementsEducation:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or VMD from an accredited university.Licensure:
Active license to practice veterinary medicine in Pennsylvania (or eligible to obtain).Certifications:
Active DEA license for prescribing controlled substances (or ability to acquire).Experience:
Open to both experienced practitioners and new graduates. (Mentorship program available for new grads).Skills:
○ Strong diagnostic reasoning and clinical judgment. ○ Proficiency in routine soft-tissue surgery and dentistry. ○ Excellent interpersonal and empathetic communication skills. ○ Ability to thrive in a fast-paced clinical environment. Benefits & Compensation- Salary (base): $115,000-$150,000 / year (depending on experience level) + [Bonus / Production-based Commission]