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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.
Equine Surgeon
Northwest Veterinary Clinic of Mount Vernon | Mount Vernon, Washington
Build the Surgical Practice You Want—Without the Demands of Emergency Surgery
Northwest Veterinary Clinic of Mount Vernon is looking for an Equine Surgeon to join our growing equine team. If you're looking for a position that combines elective surgery, sports medicine, and lameness with a healthy work-life balance, we'd love to hear from you.
This is a unique opportunity to focus on the cases you enjoy most while working alongside experienced equine veterinarians in one of the Pacific Northwest's most beautiful regions.
Why You'll Love This Opportunity
No emergency surgery or surgical on-call
A balanced caseload of surgery, sports medicine, and lameness
Ambulatory and in-clinic appointments
Shared emergency rotation of approximately one evening per week and every fifth weekend
Collaborative team environment with experienced veterinarians and support staff
Access to advanced referral imaging, including CT, MRI, and nuclear scintigraphy (bone scan) through nearby specialty facilities
What You'll Be Doing
You’ll have the opportunity to develop a rewarding and varied caseload that includes:
Elective soft tissue and orthopedic surgery
Sports medicine and performance horse evaluations
Comprehensive lameness diagnostics
Treatment planning and rehabilitation management
Collaboration with referring veterinarians and fellow clinicians on complex orthopedic cases
Building long‑term relationships with clients throughout the Pacific Northwest
The Veterinarian We're Looking For
We’re seeking a surgeon who enjoys collaborating with colleagues, communicating with clients, and delivering exceptional patient care. Whether your passion lies in surgery, sports medicine, or both, you’ll find the support and flexibility to build a fulfilling career here.
Qualifications
DVM or equivalent veterinary degree
Board‑certified or residency‑trained in Equine Surgery (ACVS), or an experienced equine surgeon with a strong interest in sports medicine
Eligible for veterinary licensure in Washington
Why Northwest Veterinary Clinic?
For decades, Northwest Veterinary Clinic has been a trusted provider of equine veterinary care throughout western Washington. We pride ourselves on practicing high‑quality medicine in a collaborative, supportive environment where veterinarians are encouraged to grow professionally while maintaining a healthy balance outside of work.
Located in Mount Vernon, you’ll enjoy easy access to the Cascade Mountains, the San Juan Islands, Puget Sound, Seattle, Vancouver, BC, and endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, boating, and outdoor recreation.
Ready to Join Us?
If you’re looking for a position where you can practice excellent medicine, enjoy a collaborative team, and leave emergency surgery behind, we’d love to connect with you.
To Apply
Please send your CV and cover letter to Emily Lunsford at
What We Offer
Signing, retention and relocation packages
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
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
Performs other duties as assigned by Management.
Qualifications (Required)
Applicants must be 18 years of age or older to be considered for this position
Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
1‑year rotational internship (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 horse owners.
Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with horses 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.
Pay Range
$120,000—$150,000 USD
PetVet Culture
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high‑quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
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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Worksite address
mount vernon, WA, 98273, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.