Part Time Veterinarian - Wichita, KS (MAR2)

As a Part-Time Veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice, your role primarily focuses on providing in-home euthanasia and hospice care for geriatric and terminally ill pets. You will also guide families through end-of-life decisions and build relationships with local veterinary clinics to extend quality care. This position champions compassionate, personalized support for pet families during critical moments.

To qualify for the Part-Time Veterinarian position at Heartstrings Pet Hospice, candidates must possess a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD/BVMS) degree and have at least one year of practical experience as a veterinarian. A valid driver's license, physical capability to assist pets as needed, and manual dexterity are also key requirements for this role.

Heartstrings Pet Hospice offers an attractive benefits package for its Part-Time Veterinarians, including a range of health insurance plans, mileage reimbursement, quarterly productivity bonuses, a retirement plan with a company match, life insurance options, and paid time off including bereavement and parental leave. Additional perks like professional training and pet insurance further enhance your work experience.

The work-life balance for a Part-Time Veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice is highly flexible. With the option to work between 2 to 5 days a week and most appointments scheduled between 9 am and 5 pm, you can design a work schedule that fits your lifestyle and commitments, making it easier to achieve a balance between professional responsibilities and personal time.

Essential skills for a Part-Time Veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice include exceptional emotional intelligence to support grieving families, strong veterinary medical skills for administering care, manual dexterity to handle medical tools effectively, and excellent communication skills to build rapport with both clients and local veterinary clinics. Additionally, physical capability is crucial for handling pets and driving to appointments.

When responding to this question, highlight your passion for providing compassionate end-of-life care. Speak from the heart about your desire to be there for pets and their families during emotional times, and discuss how this career aligns with your personal values and commitment to animal welfare.

Addressing difficult conversations with pet owners requires a balance of empathy and professionalism. Explain that you focus on clarity and compassion, actively listen to the families' concerns, and provide clear guidance while being sensitive to their emotional state, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process.

Use this opportunity to share specific experiences providing care to geriatric or terminally ill pets. Discuss the types of services you have rendered, such as pain management strategies or hospice care, and emphasize your understanding of the unique needs and emotions involved in caring for these pets and their families.

Discuss your approach to building relationships through open communication, active listening, and personalized care. Mention how you strive to make each appointment meaningful by taking the time to connect with families, understanding their specific situations, and providing tailored support.

Describe your commitment to continuing education in veterinary medicine through various means, such as attending workshops, engaging in online courses, or participating in professional organizations. Highlight any specific courses or certifications relevant to hospice and end-of-life care.

Time management in a mobile practice is crucial. Discuss how you prioritize appointments, prepare in advance to minimize delays, and effectively use technology to streamline communication with clients and veterinarians to ensure optimal flow during your workday.

Collaboration is vital in the veterinary field. Discuss your previous roles working within a team, how you've communicated effectively with colleagues, and your ability to share knowledge and resources to provide comprehensive care to clients and pets.

When faced with disagreement, it's essential to remain calm and open to dialogue. Emphasize your willingness to listen to the owner's concerns and explain your recommendations clearly, while also being supportive and respectful of their choices. The goal is to ensure the best quality of life for their pet while providing emotional support.

Supporting your emotional wellbeing is crucial in hospice care. Share strategies you use, such as seeking support from peers, participating in self-care practices, or engaging in reflective practices to process your experiences. Highlight the importance of maintaining your own mental health to provide consistent, compassionate care.

Discuss qualities such as empathy, compassion, strong communication skills, and the ability to handle stress gracefully. Emphasize that these qualities contribute to both effective veterinary care and the ability to forge genuine connections with pet families, which is pivotal in a hospice setting.