Associate Veterinarian

This small animal hospital in Laguna Niguel, California is hiring a full-time associate veterinarian. It was opened in 2002 by a veterinarian who is still practicing at the clinic, and the approach to medicine reflects that continuity. The caseload is true general practice with depth. Wellness and chronic disease management make up the foundation, with a steady mix of dentistry, soft tissue surgery, urgent cases during open hours, and longer-term medical workups.

Clients expect follow-through and are accustomed to seeing the same doctor over time.

The medical team consists of three DVMs with complementary areas of experience. One has decades of background in small animal medicine and surgery. Another focuses heavily on feline and geriatric patients. The third has additional training in pain management, acupuncture, and rehabilitation. Cases remain with the primary doctor, but informal consults and second opinions happen naturally throughout the day. Medical decisions are not dictated or measured against quotas.

AAHA standards are built into daily operations, most noticeably in anesthesia protocols, surgical workflow, and medical records. The hospital is equipped for in-house diagnostics, digital radiography, ultrasound, dentistry with dental radiographs, and a broad surgical caseload that includes orthopedic procedures. Appointments are scheduled with enough time to think through cases, follow up with clients, and close the loop. The support team is experienced, and doctors are not expected to fill technical or administrative gaps to keep things moving.

• Three-doctor team with complementary strengths and shared decision-making
• Strong dentistry, surgery, and chronic care caseload
• AAHA standards integrated into daily anesthesia and surgical practice
• In-house diagnostics, ultrasound, digital radiography, and dental radiographs
• Daytime urgent care only, no overnight ER
• Established, loyal client base accustomed to continuity

• DVM licensed or eligible to practice in California
• Comfortable managing cases independently from intake through follow-up
• Interested in general practice with room to develop surgical or medical interests
• Clear communicator with clients who values long-term care plans
• Looking for stability rather than constant turnover
• Base salary range of $130,000 to $200,000 with production and no negative accrual