Lead Veterinarian

Ruff Start Rescue

Job Description

"Are you a passionate veterinarian seeking a new opportunity with a perfect blend of work-life balance, a supportive team, and the chance to make a real impact? We have the ideal position waiting for you!"

Ruff Start Rescue is a foster-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit companion animal rescue that primarily serves communities throughout the state of Minnesota, as well as states in the south with severe pet overpopulation. We rescue stray, neglected, abandoned, and surrendered dogs and cats, as well as ferrets, guinea pigs, rabbits, and other critters. Most of our work is accomplished by a complex network of volunteers, fosters, and supporters, all coming together to save thousands of animals annually.

Our vision is simple: We strive for a world where every companion animal has a safe and loving forever home, and their family has the knowledge and resources needed to give them the life they deserve. We believe in connecting people with pets and helping provide resources in need.

Availability: 40+ hours a week, Monday - Friday, at the Ruff Start Rescue office

Essential Job Functions:
The Lead Veterinarian will be vital to Ruff Start’s mission, vision, and implementation strategies.
A successful candidate will be talented at delivering high-quality veterinary care while focusing on leadership, communication, and professionalism.

Examine, diagnose and treat animals within the rescue to maintain or establish their health and prepare for adoption.

The Lead Veterinarian will ultimately be responsible for managing the quality of care for all animals at Ruff Start Rescue.

Responsible for performing routine surgical procedures with a proven track record of surgical excellence

Preferred knowledge and experience with high quality/high volume spay/neuter surgical practices

Oversees surgical training of Registered Veterinary Technicians, new DVM’s, and DVM students

Meet with the Director of Programs and team on a weekly basis to review operations priority care plans, recognize accomplishments and work together to build a cohesive care team.

Will work collaboratively with the Director of Programs to ensure a high standard of veterinary care extends throughout the Vetting Department.

Plan and lead monthly veterinary staff meetings

Collaboratively reviews reports and procedures, resolves open issues, and discusses strategies for a positive and productive work environment. Will critically analyze shelter data and be familiar with shelter/animal management software.

Works closely with the Lead Veterinary Technician to ensure all equipment in the medical suite is maintained in safe working order and that preventative maintenance of all surgical and medical equipment is performed per manufacturer guidelines and per any regulatory requirements

Evaluate and implement surgical procedures to ensure they follow and are in compliance with industry standards and best practices.

Maintains up-to-date knowledge of shelter medicine, animal health protocols, surgical procedures, and animal health issues.

Helps effectively communicate and guide the vetting team and other staff in carrying out appropriate health policies and procedures, including surgical intake/discharge criteria, as well as medical concerns and isolation protocols for foster homes. Assures that these policies and procedures are followed by staff and other program volunteers/fosters.

Responsible for supervising and managing Ruff Start’s veterinary staff, and optimizing veterinary care for the rescue, including performing annual reviews, hiring, and training.

Provides budgetary oversight of the Vetting Department.

This is a full time job