The Veterinarian at Garland Animal Services plays a key role in advancing the health, welfare, and well-being of animals in the care of the City of Garland. This position is responsible for providing high-quality medical, surgical, and preventative care to shelter animals, including diagnosis, treatment, and oversight of herd health programs. The Veterinarian will perform spay/neuter and other surgical procedures, develop and implement medical protocols, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. Collaboration with shelter leadership, animal care staff, and community partners is essential to support lifesaving initiatives, control disease transmission, and promote best practices in animal welfare.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.
Perform sterilization surgeries and other necessary medical or surgical procedures on shelter and adoptable animals.
Monitor animals during surgery and recovery to ensure proper anesthesia, care, and post-operative outcomes.
Conduct health and behavioral evaluations of impounded and quarantined animals, monitoring for and controlling the spread of communicable diseases.
Examine animals to assess their health, diagnose illnesses or injuries, and develop treatment plans.
Treat and dress wounds and perform emergency and routine medical care as needed.
Operate medical equipment such as x-ray machines, diagnostic tools, and laboratory analyzers.
Prescribe and administer medications, vaccines, and treatments.
Maintain accurate medical records and ensure all animals receive required vaccinations and preventative care.
Communicate effectively with staff and the public regarding animal health, shelter diseases, euthanasia policies, and the care of dangerous or injured animals.
Advise shelter staff on veterinary protocols, medical policies, euthanasia standards, and proper handling of aggressive or ill animals.
Provide ongoing education and training for Animal Services Officers and shelter staff on animal health, welfare, and disease prevention.
Order, manage, and maintain inventory of medical supplies, controlled substances, and equipment in compliance with DEA and state regulations.
Serve in an on-call capacity to respond to emergency cases involving severely injured or gravely ill animals.
Perform detailed evaluations and necropsies for animal cruelty investigations and provide expert testimony as needed.
Participate in community outreach initiatives, including low-cost vaccine clinics, community cat spay/neuter days, adoption events, and educational programs promoting responsible pet ownership.
Collaborate with local veterinarians, rescue partners, and nonprofit organizations to enhance animal health outcomes and lifesaving initiatives.
Minimum Qualifications
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M. or V.M.D.) degree from a 4-year program at an accredited college of veterinary medicine
3 years of veterinary medicine experience
Preferred Qualifications
Education/ Experience:
3-5 years of Veterinary experience
Excellent surgical skills
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Possess excellent communication and business skills
Basic knowledge of expert resources in various diseases, so help can be sought when needed
Skill in monitoring data collection and data entry to ensure quality control
Extensive knowledge of diagnostic microbiology and serology for communicable diseases
Ability to work tactfully with department staff, outside veterinarians and physicians, the public, and personnel in other agencies
