Veterinarian

Welcome and thank you for your interest in employment with Loudoun County Government!

ALL SECTIONS OF THE APPLICATION MUST BE COMPLETED IN ITS ENTIRETY. THE RESUME IS CONSIDERED SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ONLY. APPLICATIONS THAT ARE INCOMPLETE OR INDICATE 'SEE RESUME' WILL NOT BE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION.

Loudoun County Animal Services is the first public animal shelter in the United States to meet 100% of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians' Animal Shelter Guidelines, and we are looking for a veterinarian to join our team at our state-of-the-art facility in Leesburg, Virginia, which opened in 2021. This position is eligible for a $10,000 sign-on bonus and a relocation incentive of up to $10,000. Additional compensation for Spanish language proficiency is also available.

Our mission places an emphasis on the Five Freedoms for the animals in our custody and we seek a veterinarian who recognizes the importance of enrichment and mental health care in addition to physical wellness for approximately 2,300 animals each year. Our veterinarian will also work alongside another DVM to provide supervision to four veterinary technicians and promote a community-based approach to animal welfare, at low-cost public clinics in the field and at the animal shelter. Additionally, we frequently partner with shelters in under-resourced communities to bring pets to Loudoun County for adoption, and our veterinarian is a key stakeholder in that life-saving process.

General responsibilities will include:

- Spay/neuter of shelter pets, approximately 1,500-2,000 surgeries annually (51% cats, 38% dogs, 11% rabbits/guinea pigs).
- Performance of dental procedures as well as common surgical procedures such as amputations, enucleations, cystotomy, wound repair, extractions, etc.
- Oversight and execution of medical protocols and licenses.
- Management of population health using progressive, research-based shelter medicine methods.
- Diagnosis, prognosis and treatment planning for animals in shelter custody.
- Oversight of regular public vaccination clinics, cat TNR and low-cost public spay/neuter clinics.
- Collection of forensic evidence, including necropsies, and related court testimony for animals involved in cases of suspected cruelty. Training is available in this area if candidates are not experienced.

LCAS has a 94% live release rate, and while animals who are dangerous or suffering may be euthanized, this task is infrequently performed by the staff veterinarian, except in cases of medical emergencies. Annual compassion fatigue training is provided to all staff, and the position is provided with a suite of excellent benefits, including healthcare, retirement, pension, license fees and professional membership dues, and CE coverage. Have questions on the position? Email nina.stively@loudoun.gov

Hiring salary commensurate with experience.

Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and either 2 years shelter/HQHVSN medicine experience or certificate of specialty training in shelter medicine through a veterinary school or five (5) years of experience in private practice. Valid Virginia veterinary license or the ability to obtain one within 30 days, DEA license and USDA license (for interstate health certificates) must be obtained within 30 days of hire.

Successful candidate will undergo a criminal background, credit check, DMV checks and physical examination, to include a drug screening.

May be exposed to various noxious fumes, gases and chemicals. Must complete a rabies pre-exposure vaccination series or provide proof of prior vaccination. Work environment has inherent dangers such as fractious animals, fall hazards, loud and repetitive noises, zoonotic disease as well as exposure to unpleasant medical conditions, injuries, infections and odors. Ability to lift 50 lbs. unassisted as well as provide humane restraint for animals over 100 lbs. with assistance. Possess and maintain a clean driving record and ability to drive a variety of vehicles. May not have fears of common companion animals, exotics or livestock species. Must be able to perform long surgical procedures while standing.