Sanctuary Veterinarian - CA

Farm Sanctuary's Acton sanctuary is home to approximately 150 farm animals rescued from abuse and neglect, including many from agricultural operations. At Farm Sanctuary they are given refuge, rehabilitation, and a lifetime of personalized care. The Sanctuary Veterinarian (SV) is responsible for providing and supporting high-quality medical care to multiple species in collaboration with a team of dedicated and experienced caregivers. The SV reports to the Director of Shelter Operations and serves on the Acton Shelter Management team-a multidisciplinary team focused on excellence in all aspects of animal care.

Responsibilities

• Participates in Shelter rounds, performs physical examinations (as needed), and advises on appropriate treatment
• Collaborates with Director of Shelter Operations to assess and implement standard care protocols
• Works with Animal Care Managers to train caregiving staff in performing treatments
• Works with Management team to support caregiving staff professional development opportunities
• Advises and consults with Shelter Management team on the necessity of diagnostic work; conducts tests and assesses results as needed
• Maintains medical recordkeeping standards
• Oversees controlled substances and orders; manages prescriptions and accounts for medications onsite
• Contributes to discussions on the disposition of difficult and complex cases
• Interacts effectively with veterinary specialists and referral institutions as necessary
• Conducts telephone conversations as needed with adopters re: hospitalized patients, test results and general medical information
• Consults with Shelter Management team on rescue and placement issues as needed
• Participates in continuing education and remains current on veterinary literature
• Participates in and represents Farm Sanctuary in DVM Meetings and discussions of current disease trends, perceptions of efficacy of treatments and protocols
• Serves as a representative of Farm Sanctuary to donors and members of the public
• Assists with budget preparation and reports as assigned
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Shelter Operations

Qualifications

• A California Veterinary License in good standing
• Previous experience working with farm animals as a large animal, small animal, or avian specialist
• Comfort with and ability to develop expertise working with all species in Farm Sanctuary's care, including cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, alpacas, llamas, donkeys, chickens, turkeys, ducks and geese
• Strong skills in conventional medicine and diagnostics
• Excellent interpersonal skills, positive attitude, team-oriented and committed to promoting animal welfare
• Commitment to providing the highest quality of care to Farm Sanctuary's residents in accordance with animal care policies and veterinary best practices
• Commitment to Farm Sanctuary's organizational programs and goals
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment while effectively managing multiple projects with creativity and flexibility
• Confidence and ability to work independently, while maintaining consistent and relevant communication with supervisor, Shelter Management team, and others
• Resourcefulness, poise and fluent adaptability to unexpected situations and developments
• Collaborative and motivated to work well as part of a diverse, multidisciplinary team, keeping others informed, managing expectations across the team, and highlighting opportunities and risks associated with projects.
• Knowledge of animal protection movement, factory farming, and vegan issues preferred
• Able to work in all weather conditions

Job Specifications

• Full-time or Part-time position
• Requires schedule flexibility, including weekend, evening and holiday availability as well as on-call responsibilities. Some travel may be required.
• Position is based in Acton, CA
• Salary commensurate with experience
• Competitive benefits package, including paid holidays; personal days; vacation and sick leave; health, dental, vision, and life insurance; 403(b) plan; flexible spending accounts; and long-term disability insurance