Director of Shelter Veterinary Medicine

Companion Animal Alliance

Job Description

Job Title: Director of Shelter Veterinary Medicine
Division: Veterinary Care
Reports To: Executive Director
Supervises: Staff Veterinarians, Veterinary Assistants, Medical Caretaker/Assistant, Clinic Senior Manager
Classification: Exempt

Position Summary
The Director of Shelter Medicine oversees all aspects of veterinary medical care within the shelter environment at Companion Animal Alliance (CAA). This role ensures the implementation of best practices in shelter medicine, including treatment protocols, sanitation, disease control, and high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) surgeries. The Director of Shelter Medicine is a key member of the director team and works closely with the Executive Director, Director of Operations, Director of Programs, and Director of Access to Care to ensure integrated and effective animal care throughout the organization.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Serve as the lead veterinarian for all shelter medical operations, including protocols related to animal health, sanitation, and facility medical flow.
Communicate regularly with the Executive Director and the director team on medical protocols, challenges, and improvements.
Review and approve payroll for the veterinary team on a bi-weekly basis.
Ensure compliance with all state and federal regulations, veterinary medical standards, and drug control requirements.

Attend and participate in leadership and director team meetings.
Manage the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine rotation by developing protocols, supervising students, providing evaluations, and completing related documentation.
Provide preventative and diagnostic veterinary care, including vaccinations, medical exams, and parasite treatment.
Perform regular medical rounds and participate in population management rounds to assess and guide care for shelter animals.
Conduct high-volume spay/neuter surgeries and a range of other surgical procedures, including but not limited to: mass removals, amputations, enucleations, dental procedures, and minor orthopedic surgeries.
Maintain accurate medical records and drug use logs in compliance with industry standards and shelter policies.
Stay informed on best practices and developments in shelter medicine, animal health, and surgical techniques.
Perform, instruct, and assist with humane euthanasia procedures as necessary.
Respond to medical inquiries from fosters, volunteers, and members of the public.
Issue health certificates for animals being transported across state lines.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Deep understanding of shelter medicine, herd health, infectious disease control, and surgical procedures.
Ability to provide high-quality, compassionate care in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with staff, the Executive Director, the director team, volunteers, and the public.
Skilled in leading and managing veterinary teams.
Familiarity with shelter operations, standard operating procedures, and medical record-keeping systems.

Ability to multitask, remain organized, and make sound decisions under pressure.
Proficiency with word processing software and veterinary management systems.

Licensing & Certification Requirements
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from an accredited institution.
Valid license to practice veterinary medicine in the State of Louisiana.
Controlled Dangerous Substances (CDS) license.
DEA license.
USDA Class 2 Accreditation.
Physical Demands
Work performed in clinical and shelter settings, including kennels and surgical suites.
Frequent standing, walking, lifting (up to 40 pounds), bending, reaching, and handling animals and equipment.

Additional Information
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties. Employees may be assigned additional tasks by their supervisor as needed. Employment is “at-will” and may be terminated at any time with or without cause or notice.

This is a full time job