What are the responsibilities and job description for the Associate Veterinarian Companion Animal & Exotics position at Vital Vet Animal Hospital?
Vital Vet Animal Hospital is seeking an Associate Veterinarian who wants to practice Fear Free, multispecies medicine in an independent hospital with strong licensed technician and assistant support. Dogs and cats are a core part of our caseload, but rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, birds, reptiles, and other exotic companion animals are equally central to our identity. Fear Free principles guide everything we do—from scheduling and handling to diagnostics and sedation—prioritizing patient comfort and thoughtful care at every step. This role is best suited for someone genuinely interested in exotics and committed to practicing low-stress, patient-centered medicine.
What Practicing at Vital Vet Looks Like
You will practice high-quality general medicine and surgery while working alongside highly leveraged LVTs and veterinary assistants. Our team-based workflow allows doctors to focus on clinical decisions, surgery, and case leadership rather than routinely absorbing tasks that can be performed by trained support staff.
Our approach includes:
- Structured pre-appointment rounds to anticipate patient needs and prepare diagnostic and treatment plans
- Strong LVT and assistant utilization throughout appointments and procedures
- ScribbleVet-supported medical documentation
- Fear Free handling and proactive management of fear, anxiety, and stress
- Hands-free radiology using appropriate sedation, positioning aids, and safety protocols
- Collaborative case discussion without micromanagement
- Opportunities to develop skills in exotics, surgery, dentistry, ultrasound, and urgent care
- Direct access to an involved, clinically experienced leadership team
We are a young independent hospital and continue to improve our systems, but we are deliberate about our standards, workflows, and culture. Your perspective will be welcomed, and you will be expected to participate constructively in that continued growth.
We are looking for someone who is:
Adaptable: You can move comfortably among different species, case types, and changing clinical priorities while maintaining good judgment and communication.
Humble: You welcome feedback, ask for help when needed, share credit, and recognize that no role or credential places someone above the team.
Hungry: You take initiative, follow through, and want to keep learning. Hungry does not mean sacrificing personal boundaries or accepting chronic overwork.
Smart: You demonstrate sound clinical judgment, emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the ability to read a room—not simply academic knowledge.
Also,
You’ll need A DVM or VMD and be licensed to practice in Virginia, or eligible for Virginia licensure
Passionate about Fear Free medicine and low-stress patient care
Genuinely interested in treating exotic companion animals
Comfortable practicing general medicine and surgery, or eager to grow with mentorship
Clear, kind, and direct in communication with clients and coworkers
Willing to contribute to a collaborative, learning-focused workplace
Able to balance medical quality, client needs, team capacity, and responsible stewardship of hospital resources
Hospital and Clinical Resources
Vital Vet is an independently owned, AAHA-accredited and Fear Free Certified Practice designed by veterinary professionals who wanted a more sustainable way to provide excellent care.
Our hospital includes:
- Shepherd practice management software
- Digital radiology and digital dental radiology
- In-house laboratory capabilities
- Ultrasound
- IM3 dental equipment
- Dedicated surgery and dental space
- Laser therapy
- Specialized equipment for avian, reptile, and exotic companion mammal care
- Spacious exam rooms designed for patient comfort
Compensation and Benefits
- Full-time annual salary range of $130,000–$170,000, based on experience, schedule, and position structure
- Full-time and part-time scheduling options
- Employer contribution toward medical, dental, and vision insurance
- SIMPLE IRA with a 3% employer match
- Up to $3,000 annually for continuing education
- Professional licensure, eligible dues, and liability coverage
- Paid time off and paid holidays
- Employee pet-care benefits
- Mentorship and professional development based on your interests and goals
Why Vital Vet?
Vital Vet was founded on the belief that excellent medicine and sustainable careers should coexist. We care about financial health and responsible business operations.
We are building a hospital where veterinary professionals can be curious, accountable, supported, and proud of the medicine they provide. We serve Chesapeake and the greater Hampton Roads community through transparent communication, client education, community engagement, and thoughtful care for a broad range of species.
If you are excited by this opportunity, we welcome the opportuniry to meet you.
Salary : $130,000 - $170,000