Small Animal Internist

Little Rock; Little Rock (AR); On-site; USD 150,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing and relocation packages up to $75,000

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with discretionary contributions

Emotional wellbeing support

Job summary

A veterinary healthcare organization in Little Rock is seeking a Board Certified or Residency Trained Internist passionate about providing high-quality care. Candidates will work alongside experienced veterinarians and staff in a supportive atmosphere focused on teamwork. This position requires a DVM or VMD degree, a 1-year internship, and excellent communication skills to effectively interact with clients. Competitive compensation includes a high base salary and various benefits, alongside professional development opportunities.

Qualifications

• Must hold a DVM or VMD degree from an accredited university.
• Complete a 1-year internship in a related field.
• Possess current State Veterinary License and DEA registration.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive patient exams.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency.

Skills

Diagnostic skills

Interpersonal communication

Team collaboration

Client communication

Compassionate veterinary care

Education

Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD)

1-year rotational internship

3-year AVMA approved residency program

Job description

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.

Because life is better with pets.

We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.

With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:

• Local autonomy with national support
• Career mobility and development opportunities
• A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

Position Overview

We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Board Certified or Residency Trained Internist to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high-quality veterinary care and possess excellent communication skills to build lasting relationships with our clients. You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and will work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

Arkansas Veterinary Emergency and Specialists (AVES) is the only multi‑specialty and emergency veterinary center in the state, providing top‑tier care. We are passionate about excellence in veterinary medicine and our specialists and emergency clinicians work together to deliver the highest standard of care. At AVES, we foster a unique, supportive culture where collaboration, mutual respect, and enjoying our work environment are key values. We believe in making a difference for our patients and clients while genuinely enjoying the company of our colleagues.

State‑of‑the‑Art Facility

• Beautiful, spacious, state‑of‑the‑art 8,500 sq ft facility
• Strong team of exceptional Board Certified Veterinary Specialists
• Digital Radiology, CT scanner, Ultrasound, Intensive/Oxygen Units
• Advanced Lab Diagnostics, In‑House Pharmacy, Ventilator
• An experienced and skilled team of veterinary professionals to provide exceptional technical care and client service

Compensation and Benefits

We are currently offering incredible earning potential with a high minimum base salary and a generous production plan, sign‑on bonus, and generous relocation assistance if needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups
• Client communication and education
• Maintaining accurate medical records
• Pharmacy duties such as prescribing medications to patients and following controlled substance protocols
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency
• Work with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
• Evaluate and monitor protocols for the daily running of the hospital from intake to discharge
• Monitor cases in the hospital and attend daily rounds when possible to be sure the highest standards are being upheld
• Participate in practice management updates and training at all levels
• Perform other duties as assigned by Management

Qualifications (Required)

• Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
• 1‑year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, ER (university or large referral practice)
• Completed a 3‑year, AVMA approved residency program
• Current State Veterinary License
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained
• Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
• Ability to work well in a team‑oriented environment
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
• Commitment to providing compassionate and high‑quality veterinary care
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to communicate effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner with all members of the Medical and Hospital staff
• Client communication skills, must be able to elicit information, establish rapport, offer explanations with pet owners
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, or pain
• May include some climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling
• Some tasks involve the periodic performance of moderately physically demanding work
• Position does require the ability to lift up to 50 pounds

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Board Certification
• 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency
• Clinical Knowledge and Skills: Demonstrate clinical knowledge and skill in examining and assessing animals. Perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological and other necessary examinations. Diagnosis and prescribe appropriate treatment
• Problem‑Solving: Ability to develop solutions to challenges relating to the management of a high‑quality veterinary hospital
• Communication Skills: Demonstrate effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients. Display effective communication with internal medical and hospital staff
• Professionalism: Work as part of a high‑quality, professional veterinary team with the ability to provide and receive appropriate constructive criticism, suggestions, and feedback
• Business Acumen: Ability to understand the management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice
• Ethics: Knowledge and understanding of ethical principles that guide decisions affecting patients
• Commitment to Continuing Education: Commitment to utilize available resources of continuing education and to facilitate learning of others

What We Offer

• Signing, retention and relocation packages up to $75,000
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid Parental Leave (birth, adoption, foster)
• 401(k) with discretionary contribution
• Team Member Pet Discounts
• Emotional wellbeing support — including Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
• CE stipends and career development resources
• Grant Circle — a relief fund for team members facing personal hardship
• Local hospital culture backed by national resources

Pay Range: $150,000 — $250,000 USD

Location

Little Rock, Arkansas, is the vibrant capital city known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and welcoming community. Nestled along the Arkansas River, Little Rock offers a diverse range of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a thriving culinary scene. The city boasts affordable living, excellent schools, and a growing economy with opportunities across various industries. With its blend of Southern charm and urban amenities, Little Rock provides an ideal environment for professionals and families alike, offering a high quality of life and a dynamic place to live and work.

How to Apply

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Julia Stephens at [e-mail].

Equal Opportunity Employer

PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V

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