Part Time Veterinarian - Wilmington, NC (MAR2)

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 families in making compassionate end-of-life decisions for their pets and build valuable relationships with local veterinary clinics, extending their quality care in a mobile setting. Your role is vital in ensuring pets pass comfortably at home, surrounded by their loving families.

To qualify for the Part Time Veterinarian position at Heartstrings Pet Hospice, applicants must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM/VMD/BVMS) degree and have at least one year of experience as a practicing veterinarian. Additionally, candidates should possess a valid driver’s license and demonstrate the physical capability to lift pets and medical equipment, as well as be comfortable during longer driving periods across the community.

Heartstrings Pet Hospice offers a range of benefits for its Part Time Veterinarians, including health insurance plans with vision and dental coverage, mileage reimbursement, and quarterly productivity bonuses. The position also includes a retirement plan with matching, life insurance options, paid time off including bereavement and parental leave, and opportunities for professional training and development, ensuring that our veterinarians thrive both personally and professionally.

Heartstrings Pet Hospice emphasizes work-life balance by offering flexible scheduling options that allow Part Time Veterinarians to choose between 2-5 working days a week, with most appointments scheduled between 9 am and 5 pm. This structure enables our team to maintain personal commitments while exploring a fulfilling career serving pets and their families during critical moments.

At Heartstrings Pet Hospice, the work environment for a Part Time Veterinarian is nurturing and supportive, built on strong teamwork and community connections. You'll be joining a dedicated team focused on compassionate care and enriching the lives of pets and their families. Our organization fosters personal growth through team-building activities and retreats, cultivating a sense of belonging and camaraderie among our veterinarians.

When answering this question, demonstrate empathy and understanding as you discuss your approach to guiding families through end-of-life decisions. Explain how you provide clear, compassionate information about options, allowing families to feel supported and understood during a challenging time.

For this question, recount a specific incident where your compassion made a difference for a family during a difficult moment. Highlight your ability to listen, offer comfort, and help them make informed decisions regarding their pet's care.

Discuss the importance of communication and collaboration when building relationships with local veterinary clinics. Share examples of how you stay engaged, attend community events, and ensure a seamless experience for pet families transitioning between different care settings.

Describe how you prepare for in-home visits, such as gathering necessary medical supplies, planning your approach with sensitivity, and effectively communicating with pet owners. Sharing your process demonstrates your organizational skills and empathy towards the families you serve.

Emphasize your coping mechanisms, such as seeking support from colleagues, practicing self-care, or finding ways to detach emotions from work outcomes. This shows your ability to manage emotional stress while remaining dedicated to providing quality care.

Share a specific experience that illustrates your communication skills during challenging conversations. Highlight the steps you took to present information honestly while remaining compassionate, ensuring the owner felt supported throughout the process.

Talk about any continuing education courses, training, or workshops you attend to enhance your skills, especially in palliative care or end-of-life services. This indicates your commitment to personal growth and the highest standards of pet care.

Discuss the importance of empathy, communication, and relationship-building as key qualities for a veterinarian at Heartstrings Pet Hospice. Illustrate how these traits align with the company’s mission and foster stronger connections with pet families.

Describe your time management strategies, such as planning routes for appointments, ensuring you're punctual while allowing time for interactions with pet families. This emphasizes your organizational skills and respect for both your time and the clients'.

Share your perspective on the unique benefits of mobile veterinary services, especially for geriatric and terminally ill pets. Emphasize the value of familiar surroundings for pets and stress the importance of being adaptable in varied environments.