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Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Animergevets

Small Animal Surgeon - AnimERge

Raritan, NJ · On-site

$180 - $300/hr

Small Animal Surgeon - AnimERge Position Overview We are seeking a dedicated Board-Certified or ... You will work alongside a team of experienced veterinarians, technicians, and support staff and ...

172248 Lodi Veterinary Care - Lodi

WI · On-site

$110 - $150/hr

We believe a successful veterinary career should provide both professional fulfillment and a life ... Provide preventive care, dentistry, and soft‑tissue and orthopedic surgery. * Offer urgent care ...

VCA Seaside Animal Hospital

$160 - $190/hr

Pennsylvania veterinary license or eligibility for licensure. * New graduates and experienced veterinarians are welcome to apply. * Strong interest in high-quality small-animal medicine and surgery.

New

IVC

Veterinary Surgeon - Small Animal

Lincolnshire, IL · On-site

$1.2K/wk

... skilled Veterinary Surgeon to join our small yet busy team at Alder Veterinary Practice. The ... Animal care should be at the forefront of your mind. Because our people matter We recognise that ...

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Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon information

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How much do small animal veterinary surgeon jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for small animal veterinary surgeon in the United States is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a small animal veterinary surgeon do?

A Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon is a veterinarian who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and performing surgery on pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and other small animals. Their responsibilities include conducting physical exams, prescribing medication, performing surgical procedures, and providing preventive healthcare advice to pet owners. They also play a key role in educating clients about proper animal care and may work in private clinics, animal hospitals, or research settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a small animal veterinary surgeon?

To thrive as a Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon, you need a veterinary medicine degree (DVM or equivalent), licensure to practice, and a solid understanding of animal anatomy, pathology, and surgical procedures. Familiarity with diagnostic imaging tools, anesthesia machines, and veterinary practice management software is typically required. Strong communication, problem-solving abilities, and compassion are crucial for building trust with pet owners and collaborating with veterinary teams. These skills and qualities ensure accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and high-quality care for small animal patients.

What are some common challenges faced by small animal veterinary surgeons in a clinical setting?

Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons often encounter challenges such as managing a high caseload, balancing routine care with emergency situations, and communicating complex medical information to pet owners in an empathetic manner. They also need to stay updated on advancements in veterinary medicine and handle emotionally charged situations, especially when dealing with critically ill pets. Collaborating effectively with veterinary nurses, support staff, and other veterinarians is essential for delivering high-quality care and maintaining a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon vs Veterinary Nurse?

AspectSmall Animal Veterinary SurgeonVeterinary Nurse
QualificationsVeterinary degree, registration with the RCVSNursing diploma or degree, registration with the RCVS
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, surgical settingsAnimal wards, clinics, assisting surgeries
Roles & ResponsibilitiesDiagnosing, treating, performing surgeriesAssisting vets, patient care, administering medication

The main difference is that Small Animal Veterinary Surgeons diagnose and treat animals, perform surgeries, and hold a veterinary degree, while Veterinary Nurses support vets in patient care and nursing tasks. Both roles require RCVS registration but differ in responsibilities and scope of practice.

More about Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon jobs

What states have the most Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon jobs?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon jobs are:

Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon jobs near you
Infographic showing various Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,144 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Small Animal Surgeon - Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists

Atlanticcoastvet

Bohemia, NY • On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Small Animal Surgeon – Atlantic Coast New York Veterinary Specialists

At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people, providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage.

Position Overview

We are seeking a Board‑Certified or Residency‑Trained Small Animal Veterinary Surgeon to join our team. The ideal candidate will be passionate about providing high‑quality veterinary care, possess excellent communication skills, and work closely with veterinarians, technicians, and support staff to deliver outstanding client service and teamwork. This position also offers a leadership opportunity.

Key Responsibilities
  • Comprehensive patient exams and medical work‑ups
  • Client communication and education
  • Maintaining accurate medical records
  • Prescribing medications and following controlled substance protocols
  • Promoting teamwork and staff efficiency
  • Working with the Hospital Manager on weekly priorities and expectations
  • Evaluating and monitoring protocols for daily hospital operation
  • Monitoring cases and attending daily rounds to ensure high standards
  • Participating in practice‑management updates and training at all levels
  • Performing 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, or ER
  • Completed a 3‑year, AVMA‑approved residency program
  • Current State Veterinary License
  • DEA registration (obtained and maintained)
  • Strong diagnostic and clinical skills
  • Team‑oriented collaboration skills
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
  • Commitment to compassionate, high‑quality care
  • Client communication skills for eliciting information and building rapport
  • Ability to manage pet stress, illness, or pain with confidence
  • Physical capability to climb, balance, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl as required
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
  • Board Certification
  • 2‑5 years of experience post‑residency
  • Advanced clinical knowledge in cardiovascular, respiratory, orthopedic, neurological, and other examinations
  • Problem‑solving skills for high‑quality hospital management
  • Effective communication of diagnostics and treatment options to clients and internal staff
  • Professionalism and constructive feedback culture
  • Business acumen for understanding hospital management and finances
  • Ethical decision‑making in patient care
  • Commitment to continuing education and facilitating learning for others
What We Offer
  • Signing, retention, and relocation packages up to $100,000 for experienced candidates
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid parental leave (birth, adoption, foster)
  • 401(k) with discretionary contribution
  • Team member pet discounts
  • Emotional wellbeing support – Calm app access and 24/7 EAP
  • CE stipends and career development resources
  • Grant Circle – relief fund for personal hardship
  • Strong local hospital culture backed by national resources
Why Join Us?
  • State‑of‑the‑art facilities with advanced diagnostics and rehabilitation
  • A collaborative and supportive environment with board‑certified specialists
  • Opportunity to handle a wide range of complex cases
  • Leadership potential and professional growth

Pay Range: $150,000 – $200,000 USD

For questions or to submit your resume, please email Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com.

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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