Small Animal Internist - The Regional Veterinary Referral Center

Vetreferralcenter; Springfield (VA); On-site; USD 200,000 - 250,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Paid parental leave

401(k) with discretionary contribution

Pet discounts

Emotional wellbeing support

CE stipends

Job summary

Vetreferralcenter in Springfield, Virginia is looking for a dedicated Board-Certified Small Animal Internist. The role emphasizes high-quality veterinary care and team collaboration. Ideal candidates should possess a DVM or VMD degree, have completed a residency, and be licensed in Virginia. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $200,000 to $250,000 USD along with comprehensive benefits including relocation packages, medical insurances, and support for personal wellbeing. A strong focus on work-life balance and mentorship is also highlighted.

Qualifications

• 1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, or ER.
• Current state veterinary license.
• DEA registration must be obtained and maintained.

Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive patient exams and medical work-ups.
• Communicate and educate clients.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Handle pharmacy duties, including prescribing medications.
• Promote teamwork and staff efficiency.

Skills

Strong diagnostic and clinical skills

Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment

Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills

Client communication skills

Problem-solving

Education

Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD)

Completed a 3-year AVMA-approved residency program

Job description

Small Animal Internist - The Regional Veterinary Referral Center

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.

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

We operate 420 locally led hospitals and support over 11,000 team members nationwide.

Position Overview

We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal 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 collaborate closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.

The Regional Veterinary Referral Center (RVRC) in Springfield, Virginia offers 24/7 emergency and critical care and provides specialty services in Surgery, Internal Medicine, Medical Oncology, Critical Care, Dermatology, Neurology, Cardiology, Radioiodine, and Physical Rehabilitation. The RVRC is centrally located near Washington DC and receives referrals from across the Mid-Atlantic region. In addition to our specialties, our center houses an I‑131 treatment center (Radiocat), ultrasound, digital radiography, linear accelerator, CT, and an MRI unit. Our in‑house diagnostic center allows for rapid and accurate patient analytic data to inform decisions.

Why Join Us

• Support from a dedicated Hospital Manager who truly cares about the well‑being of every employee.
• Emphasis on work‑life balance, feedback, and mentorship.
• Collaborative approach to hospital growth with visionary direction.

We care deeply about supporting our team members — professionally and personally. Benefits include signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $75,000; medical, dental, and vision insurance; paid parental leave; 401(k) with discretionary contribution; pet discounts; emotional wellbeing support; CE stipends; a relief fund for personal hardship; and local hospital culture backed by national resources.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups.
• Communicate and educate clients.
• Maintain accurate medical records.
• Handle pharmacy duties, including prescribing medications 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 and attend daily rounds when possible to uphold the highest standards.
• 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, or 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.
• Client communication skills: ability to elicit information, establish rapport, and offer explanations to pet owners.
• Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with stressed, ill, or painful pets.
• Physical requirements: may include climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling; moderate physical demands; lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)

• Board certification.
• 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency.
• Clinical knowledge: ability to perform cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological, and other necessary examinations; diagnose and prescribe appropriate treatment.
• Problem‑solving: develop solutions to challenges in managing a high‑quality veterinary hospital.
• Communication: effective communication of diagnostic and therapeutic options to clients and staff.
• Professionalism: participate in a high‑quality, professional veterinary team with constructive feedback.
• Business acumen: understand management and finances of the veterinary hospital practice.
• Ethics: knowledge of ethical principles guiding patient decisions.
• Commitment to continuing education and facilitation of learning for others.

Pay Range

$200,000 — $250,000 USD

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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