Internship Clinical Rotation Jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

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.

Veterinary Medical and Surgical Group (VMSG) in Ventura, California is a 24-hour specialty and emergency referral hospital. Our emergency veterinarians can utilize our in-house labs, specialized pharmacy, and separate emergency & critical care treatment area with the latest equipment to assist in providing exceptional emergency treatment, life-saving procedures & supportive care. In addition, VMSG is also equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment including ultrasound, C-Arm, 64-slice CT, MRI, and two digital radiology suites. We are also supported by skilled Radiologists for radiographic interpretation & recommendations. At VMSG we are devoted to providing the best medical, surgical, emergency and critical care available, through Quality, Integrity, Compassion, and Service.

Why Join Us: 

• Our 16,000-square-foot specialty center is set up for you to practice your best medicine.
• When immediate emergency surgery is warranted, our 3 surgical suites include the most advanced surgical, anesthesia & monitoring equipment available.

This position comes with Exceptional earning potential starting at $300,000+ in a high-performing, multi-million dollar surgical department. Plus a sign-on bonus, and generous relocation assistance if needed.

Ventura, CA, is a coastal gem with a relaxed, community-focused vibe and an inspiring natural landscape. Known for its beautiful beaches, historic downtown, and mild Mediterranean climate, Ventura offers residents an exceptional quality of life with easy access to outdoor activities, from surfing to hiking. The city blends small-town charm with a thriving arts and culture scene and boasts a strong local economy, making it a fantastic place for professionals seeking both career growth and a laid-back, coastal lifestyle.

Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@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 $100,000
• 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.