VETERINARIAN

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 serve in a leadership role at our state of the art facility in Leesburg, Virginia, which opened in 2021.

Our veterinarian will oversee two licensed technicians and work as a member of our team to promote a community-based approach to animal welfare while reducing shelter intakes. LCAS' mission places an emphasis on complete health for the animals in our custody and we seek a veterinarian who recognizes the importance of enrichment and mental health care to ensure that we are providing the ideal experience to the animals at our 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. Interactions with pet owners are minimal, with the exception of public clinic events.

General responsibilities include:

• Spay/neuter of shelter pets, approximately 1,100 surgeries annually (51% cats, 38% dogs, 11% rabbits/guinea pigs).
• Performance of common surgical and dental procedures.
• 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 monthly public vaccination clinics and cat TNR clinics.
• Collection of forensic evidence, including necropsies, for animals involved in cases of suspected cruelty. 

Training available in this area if candidates are not experienced. LCAS has a 93% live release rate, and while animals who are dangerous or suffering may be euthanized, this task is rarely 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 retirement pension, and CE coverage. Interviews for this position are being held now, with the intention for a new veterinarian to join the team immediately, with a relocation bonus available.

Have questions on the position? Email nina.stively@loudoun.gov

Loudoun County Regular Full-time Employees are eligible for full benefits including but not limited to the following as a part of a total rewards package!

• Retirement from the Virginia Retirement System (VRS)
• Annual leave
• Sick leave
• Annual Paid Holidays
• Group Health Plan
• Group Life Insurance
• Exceptional Performance Recognition
• Credit Union Membership
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Education and Career Development

Hiring salary is commensurate with experience.

A Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine and 2 years of professional experience is required (certificates or specialty training in shelter medicine or other sub-specialties through a veterinary school or applicable industry association may be substituted for the experience requirement with each certificate equivalent to the year's equivalency of coursework represented by the credential(s))

Valid Virginia Veterinary License or ability to obtain one within 30 days, DEA license and USDA license (for interstate health certificates) must be obtained within 30 days of hire.

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 animal and livestock species. Must be able to perform long surgical procedures while standing.

Successful candidate will undergo a criminal background, credit check, DMV check and drug screening.