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$155K

$368.9K

$400K

How much do animal surgeon jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for animal surgeon in the United States is $368,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $350,000.00 and $400,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an animal surgeon?

Animal surgeons, also known as veterinary surgeons, are veterinarians who specialize in performing surgical procedures on animals. They diagnose injuries and diseases, recommend surgical options, and perform operations ranging from routine spaying and neutering to complex orthopedic or soft tissue surgeries. Animal surgeons work with a variety of animals, including pets, livestock, and sometimes exotic species. They also provide post-operative care and collaborate with pet owners to ensure the best recovery outcomes. Their expertise is crucial for treating conditions that cannot be managed with medication alone.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal surgeon, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Surgeon, you need a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, board certification in veterinary surgery, and extensive knowledge of animal anatomy and surgical procedures. Proficiency with surgical instruments, anesthesia machines, and diagnostic imaging systems is essential. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and communication skills with both clients and veterinary teams set candidates apart. These skills ensure successful surgical outcomes, patient safety, and effective collaboration in veterinary practice.

What are some common challenges animal surgeons face during complex surgical procedures, and how can they be managed?

Animal Surgeons often encounter challenges such as unpredictable complications during surgery, variations in animal anatomy, and managing post-operative pain or infection. To address these issues, surgeons rely on thorough preoperative assessments, clear communication with veterinary technicians, and adherence to strict aseptic techniques. Continuous learning and collaboration with veterinary specialists also help in effectively managing unexpected situations, ensuring the best outcomes for their animal patients.

What is the difference between Animal Surgeon vs Veterinarian?

AspectAnimal SurgeonVeterinarian
Required CredentialsDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), specialized surgical trainingDoctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
Work EnvironmentOperating rooms, clinics, hospitals, surgical centersGeneral clinics, hospitals, outpatient care, surgeries
Employer & IndustryVeterinary hospitals, specialty surgical clinicsAnimal clinics, hospitals, research facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for surgical expertise and specializationBroader role including diagnosis, treatment, and prevention

Animal Surgeons are specialized veterinarians focusing on surgical procedures, requiring advanced surgical training. Veterinarians have a broader scope, including diagnosis and general care. While all Animal Surgeons are Veterinarians, not all Veterinarians are Animal Surgeons. The key difference lies in specialization and surgical focus.

How do you become an animal surgeon?

To become an animal surgeon, one must complete a bachelor's degree, attend veterinary school to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree, and then complete a surgical residency or specialized training in veterinary surgery. Licensing and certification by relevant veterinary boards are also required to practice as a veterinary surgeon.
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Cities with the most Animal Surgeon job openings:

What states have the most Animal Surgeon jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Surgeon jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Animal Surgeon jobs look for?

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Animal Surgeon jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Surgeon job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $368,879 per year, or $177.3 per hour.

Small Animal Surgeon - Memphis Veterinary Specialists

Memphis Veterinary Specialists

Cordova, TN • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

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.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience - every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide, we offer:
  • Local autonomy with national support
  • Career mobility and development opportunities
  • A collaborative, inclusive environment where your wellbeing comes first

You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Board Certified or Residency Trained Small Animal Surgeon 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 work closely with the Hospital Manager and Regional Manager.
Memphis Veterinary Specialists (MVS) in Memphis, Tennessee is a premier multi-specialty center; serving over 2,000 referring veterinarians across five states. MVS is a leader in specialty and emergency care throughout the Mid-South. We pride ourselves on fostering a supportive, team-first culture where respect, collaboration, and a love for what we do are at the heart of everything. Here, your professional growth, personal well-being, and passion for patient care are all equally valued.
Why Join Us:
  • Practice in a state-of-the-art 18,000 sq. ft. facility with access to; on-site CT, digital radiology, endoscopy, ultrasound, and I-131 treatment ward
  • We have a highly skilled technical team and strong support staff
  • You'll work alongside experienced professionals who are passionate about advancing veterinary medicine and supporting one another every step of the way.

You'll love living in Memphis, a city rich in culture and the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock 'n' roll, with legendary attractions like Beale Street and Graceland. Its nationally recognized culinary scene-especially if you're a barbecue fan-adds even more flavor to everyday life. Memphis also offers one of the most affordable costs of living in the country, making it easy to enjoy everything the city has to offer. From outdoor adventures and riverfront activities to a vibrant arts and music scene, Memphis delivers an unbeatable blend of comfort, culture, and community.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Julia Stephens at jstephens@petvetcarecenters.com.
What We Offer
We care deeply about supporting our team members - professionally and personally. Benefits include:
  • Signing, retention and relocation packages up to $125,000
  • 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)
  • Veterinarian degree (DVM or VMD) from an accredited college or university
  • 1-year rotational internship in small animal medicine, surgery, 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.
  • 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 pet owners.
  • Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets 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
$275,000-$325,000 USD
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 400 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.
You care for pets. We care for you.
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
PetVet respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information. Please see our privacy notice for additional information about our data practices.

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