Shelter Veterinarian

Volunteer Veterinarian – Shelter Medicine

Pet Pride of New York Position Type: Volunteer (Unpaid)

Position Overview

Pet Pride of New York is seeking a licensed veterinarian to support the health and well-being of cats within our free-roam, no-kill shelter and foster program. This volunteer role plays a vital part in ensuring compassionate, high-quality medical care for cats from intake through adoption.

The Volunteer Veterinarian works collaboratively with staff, volunteers, and foster caregivers to support medical decision-making and treatment planning. Responsibilities and time commitment are flexible and will be aligned with both organizational needs and the volunteer’s availability.

Key Responsibilities

Shelter Medicine & Medical Care

• Perform health examinations for cats entering the shelter, as needed
• Provide medical evaluations and treatment recommendations for cats in care during scheduled volunteer time
• Diagnose and manage illnesses, injuries, and chronic conditions
• Prescribe medications and develop clear treatment protocols for staff and volunteers to follow
• Review and interpret diagnostic and laboratory results to guide care decisions

Surgical Support (As Available)

• Perform surgical procedures (e.g., spay/neuter, dental procedures, mass removals) based on the volunteer’s availability and shelter needs
• Provide guidance on surgical standards, protocols, and post-operative care

Foster & Adoption Support

• Support medical care for cats in foster homes, including treatment planning and follow-up recommendations
• Provide guidance to foster caregivers on medical needs and recovery
• Offer consultation for post-adoption medical questions when appropriate

Collaboration & Guidance

• Partner with shelter leadership and staff to support medical protocols and best practices
• Provide guidance and education to staff and volunteers on animal health, handling, and disease prevention
• Support decision-making related to medical care, quality of life, and treatment options

Inventory & Medical Supplies

• Provide input on medical supply and medication needs
• Support best practices related to medication usage and inventory, as appropriate

Time Commitment (Flexible)

The time commitment for this role is flexible and will be determined collaboratively based on the veterinarian’s availability and the needs of the organization. Support may include a combination of:

• Scheduled on-site visits
• Periodic surgical days
• Remote consultation as needed

Qualifications

• Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or equivalent)
• Licensed to practice veterinary medicine in New York State
• Experience in shelter medicine, feline care, or high-volume environments preferred but not required
• Strong clinical judgment and ability to make sound medical decisions
• Ability to work collaboratively within a volunteer-driven organization

Additional Information

This is a volunteer role and does not constitute employment. The Volunteer Veterinarian provides services at their discretion and in coordination with Pet Pride leadership.

Pet Pride of New York will provide information regarding protocols, expectations, and any applicable liability coverage related to volunteer service.