Veterinarian Associate

Are you passionate about enhancing the lives of pets? Join us in our mission to be the go-to destination for both pets and their owners. At Petco, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of animals and their caregivers. If you’re looking to build a fulfilling career while being your authentic self and prioritizing your well-being, Petco is the perfect place for you. Our core values reflect our commitment to enriching lives through ethical practices for pets and their humans. Pet First - Protect & Empower. We ensure that every pet has the chance to Live their Best Life. Pet needs and those of their caregivers are the core of our mission. Foster the Fun - Connect & Bond. Our love for pets unites us in celebrating the joys of pet ownership through exciting experiences, products, and services. Let's Go! Own & Commit. Our strength lies in our unity as a One Petco team. We embrace our unique talents and commit to authenticity to achieve success. About Petco: For over 60 years, we've proudly served as the destination for pets to find everything they need, from their favorite food and toys to expert support from people who truly understand pet parenthood. We cherish every quirky moment of pet ownership - from tail-wags to late-night play. Currently, our team comprises 29,000+ dedicated individuals who foster the bond between pets and humans across over 1,500 stores in the U.S., Mexico, and Puerto Rico, in addition to 250+ Vetco Total Care hospitals, and numerous preventive care clinics. At our Vetco Total Care veterinary hospitals, our veterinarians play a crucial role in delivering exceptional care. They work with state-of-the-art equipment and lead a dedicated medical team, all focused on enhancing the quality of veterinary services. You will have the opportunity to thrive in an environment that celebrates your success and individual approach to veterinary medicine. Key Responsibilities: As an Associate Veterinarian, you will carry out the following essential duties: Deliver outstanding patient care through comprehensive physical examinations, accurate diagnoses, treatment of diseases, and preventive care tailored to patients’ needs and environments. Utilize precision-based problem-solving techniques including compiling a complete patient problem list, generating differential diagnoses, establishing a thorough diagnostic plan, and devising appropriate treatment strategies based on test results. Meticulously document all patient evaluations, diagnostic findings, treatments, client communications, and diagnoses within medical records in accordance with practice standards. Conduct a range of surgical procedures from routine spays/neuters to more complex surgeries like exploratory surgeries and mass removals. Perform both routine and advanced dental procedures including full dental examinations, radiograph evaluations, and both simple and intricate extractions. Create treatment plans for hospitalized patients, coordinating care with overnight facilities and maintaining clear communication with referral hospitals. Additional Responsibilities: Engage in staff rounds to share insights as either the incoming or outgoing doctor. Share knowledge with team members to elevate care quality and enhance communication with patients and clients. Take on additional responsibilities as assigned. Management Structure: As a veterinarian, you will work directly under the supervision of the Hospital Medical Leader or Area Medical Director, with autonomy to make patient care decisions while adhering to established Petco Veterinary SOPs. Expect constructive feedback from leadership aimed at improving patient care. Collaboration and professionalism with fellow veterinarians are vital components of this role. Planning and Problem Solving Skills: Your aptitude for solving problems will be essential in providing diagnostic care to our patients swiftly. Impact on the Organization: Your contributions will not only enhance practice productivity but also maintain a high standard of care, positively impacting employee morale, patient wellness, and customer satisfaction. Supervisory Role: While this position does not include direct supervisory duties, your leadership within the hospital will be invaluable. Qualifications: A Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an AVMA-accredited institution or an equivalent qualification. Active veterinary license in the state of employment, or the ability to obtain one prior to the start date. Current DEA license. Possession of a current Controlled Substance License, if applicable. USDA Category I Accreditation or the ability to achieve this within two months of hire. Competence in performing anesthesia and routine surgical procedures, including spays, neuters, removals, and dental surgeries. Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Compassionate, professional demeanor under stress and during emotional situations. Proficient with computers and telephone communication. A collaborative team player ready to learn, innovate, and embrace change. Work Environment: Work primarily occurs within the Vetco Total Care veterinary hospital, involving physical activities such as bending, kneeling, lifting (up to 30 pounds), and prolonged standing. Much of your time will involve direct engagement with clients and their pets. Connections: This role involves regular communication with clients, veterinary specialists, and service providers relevant to practice needs. Qualified applicants with criminal records will be considered for employment consistent with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and California Fair Chance Act. Salary: $103,600.00 - $220,000.00 The pay rate will reflect location, experience, and applicable minimum wage laws. A detailed overview of Petco Total Rewards, including benefits and incentives, is available upon request. Petco Animal Supplies, Inc. is proud to be 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.

Created: 2026-03-11