Position Summary:

The Medical Director of Shelter Medicine position requires a working knowledge of shelter medicine and epidemiology as well as surgical proficiency.  This position assists in fulfilling the mission and vision of Animal Friends by acting as an advocate on behalf of animals and by providing prompt and quality veterinary services to all animals within the organization’s care while preparing them for adoption. The Medical Director also supervises the veterinary technician team and the day-to-day medical care of animals—dogs, cats, and rabbits--both residing on site and in foster care.  Additional responsibilities include training and evaluation of the technician team and development of departmental policies, procedures, and protocols.  The Medical Director will also be a key position on the Animal Friends Evaluation Committee, reviewing shelter animal cases and recommending a pathway for those with special needs medically, behaviorally, or otherwise. 

The Medical Director must have a big-picture view of animal welfare, herd health, and shelter medicine while being able to work in emotional situations while remaining poised and professional.  This position requires flexibility, high energy, strong problem-solving skills, a solution-based mind-set, and effective positive communication skills augmented by a compassionate spirit.  As with every position within Animal Friends, the Veterinarian is expected to be a positive ambassador for the organization, abide by and promote its mission, policies, and vision. Please send all resumes and cover letters to aensminger@thinkingoutsidethecage.org.

Essential Functions:

Oversees and manages the veterinary functions for all Animal Friends animals, including medical, surgical and foster care programs, to ensure quality and professionalism.

• Examine, diagnose, and treat animals, including those who are sick and/or injured.
• Commitment to “force free” handling techniques

• Conducts reviews of health care, surgical, physical therapy, dietary and sanitation programs of Animal Friends, recommending improvements and disease control measures.
• Performs surgical procedures on a daily and as-needed basis including, but not limited to, ovariohysterectomy (including pediatric), orchiectomy/castration (including pediatric), tumor/lump/cyst removal, hernia repair, teeth extractions and ocular (i.e. entropion repair) procedures.
• Ensures appropriate medication is administered by Medical Wellness staff.
• Ensures SOPs of all departmental activities related to veterinary medical care of animals at Animal Friends are updated, current and utilized in accordance to the organizational DEA standards as well as the PA Veterinary Practice Act and ASV Guidelines, and ensures that services provided are consistent with the protocols.
• Performs euthanasia in a timely and compassionate manner as according to Animal Friends’ protocols, procedures, and no-kill tradition.
• Reviews medical records to ensure staff provide appropriate treatment and follow-up.
• Oversees and participates in training and continuing education for the department.
• Supervises and coaches staff by providing regular, ongoing feedback and direction via staff meetings, contributions for performance evaluations and continued education.
• Interfaces with other departments to provide educational opportunities.
• Evaluates and determines the disposition of animals in the organization’s care according to standard medical procedure and legal requirements.
• Consults as needed with the Behavior and Humane Investigations departments concerning the disposition of animals and provides evaluation, documentation and testimony on animals involved in suspected cruelty and neglect investigations.
• Responsible for “on call” coverage (via cell phone) for telephone consultations re: emergency care.
• Consults with other veterinary professionals as needed.
• Provides guidance to staff for situations that require immediate problem solving.
• Oversees and takes control of situations which could be damaging to the professional image of the organization.
• Serves as departmental liaison promoting Animal Friends’ philosophy and goals to outside veterinarians, vendors, the public and other animal-related organizations.
• Working with other staff, develops protocols and monitors the control and accurate recording of controlled substances and supplies used in the department as required by the DEA.
• Engages in networking with other animal welfare agencies, government officials, community and corporate leaders to further the work of the organization. Participates in community outreach programs as required.
• Demonstrates commitment to integrating volunteers. Supports volunteer recruitment, training, evaluation and recognition.
• Performs other duties as assigned.