Part Time Veterinarian - Boston, MA (MAR2) - job 1 of 2

As a Part Time Veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice, your core responsibilities include providing in-home euthanasia and hospice care for geriatric and terminally ill pets. You will guide pet families in making thoughtful end-of-life decisions and build lasting relationships with local veterinary clinics, acting as a trusted partner in their pets' care.

To qualify for the Part Time Veterinarian role at Heartstrings Pet Hospice, you must possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD/BVMS) degree and at least one year of practical experience as a veterinarian. A valid driver’s license is essential, and physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted is required.

Heartstrings Pet Hospice offers an attractive benefits package for Part Time Veterinarians, including a variety of health insurance options, mileage reimbursement, quarterly bonuses based on productivity, retirement plans with company matching, paid time off, professional training, and even pet insurance.

Heartstrings Pet Hospice promotes strong work-life balance by offering flexible scheduling for Part Time Veterinarians, allowing you to choose between 2 to 5 working days per week. Most appointments are scheduled between 9 AM and 5 PM, ensuring that you can manage both your professional duties and personal life seamlessly.

Working as a Part Time Veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice presents a unique opportunity to provide compassionate care in-home, directly impacting the lives of pet families during their most challenging moments. You'll have the chance to reconnect with families and offer heartfelt support, all while embracing a mobile practice that allows more meaningful interactions.

When discussing end-of-life options, it’s essential to be empathetic and informative. I start by listening closely to the pet owner's concerns and emotions, allowing them to express their feelings. I then provide clear information about the process and what to expect, helping them feel more comfortable with the decisions they have to make.

I was drawn to veterinary hospice care because of the profound difference it makes during a pet’s final journey. It's a chance to support both pets and their families in a personal and compassionate manner. I find fulfillment in helping families navigate this critical time with dignity and love.

In a challenging situation where a pet owner was struggling with the decision for euthanasia, I focused on active listening and acknowledged their emotional struggle. I provided them with options and shared stories of similar experiences, which helped them feel less alone. Ultimately, they felt empowered to make a decision that was right for them and their pet.

The most essential skill for a veterinarian in hospice care is empathy. Being able to connect genuinely with pet owners and understanding their emotional needs is crucial. This connection establishes trust and assures families that their pets are in compassionate hands during their final moments.

Creating a comfortable environment for in-home euthanasia involves respect and compassion. I always ask the family where they feel most at ease, whether that’s their living room or a backyard. I ensure that we have a peaceful setting and give families ample time to say their goodbyes in a serene atmosphere.

I prioritize communication and have a clear scheduling system to manage my time effectively. I make sure to leave enough time between appointments for potential delays and to ensure each family receives the attention they deserve. Flexibility and adaptability are key in this line of work.

I stay updated by regularly reading veterinary journals, attending conferences, and participating in specialized training workshops. Networking with other veterinarians who share similar interests also offers valuable insights and keeps me well-informed about developments in the field of veterinary hospice care.

I believe in open communication and collaboration. My approach involves introducing myself personally and discussing how we can partner to provide the best care for pets. Regular follow-ups and sharing success stories create a mutual bond and foster trust between our practices.

Handling emotional distress requires sensitivity and patience. I address the pet owner’s emotions and validate their feelings, offering reassurance throughout the process. I focus on being present and provide resources, like support groups, that could aid them after the appointment.

A team-oriented approach is vital in veterinary hospice care as it combines diverse perspectives and expertise. It allows us to support pet families comprehensively while leveraging each team member's strengths, ultimately resulting in elevated patient care and meeting emotional needs with a collaborative effort.