Description

Countryside Veterinary Hospital & Wellness Center is a privately owned, multi-building practice in Valley Center, CA — a close-knit rural community that has long needed expanded veterinary access. Founded in March 1988 by Dr. Deborah Hofler, Countryside has been a trusted cornerstone of this community for over 35 years. Our campus includes a full-service hospital, a wellness center, and Muddy Paws Country Spa & Boarding — all on one property.

Valley Center is underserved when it comes to urgent care. With no after-hours emergency options currently available in our community, we are expanding our services to meet that need — and we need the right doctor to help us build it.

What We're Building: We are seeking a passionate DVM to help launch our new urgent care and expanded hours program. This is a ground-floor opportunity to shape something meaningful. You won't just be filling a role — you'll be helping build a service this community has never had.

Extended evening urgent care hours beyond our current 6 PM close
Sunday availability, currently a day we are closed
After-hours urgent care for Valley Center and the surrounding area
What We Offer:

A privately owned practice with a 35+ year legacy of community trust
The opportunity to help build and shape our urgent care program from the ground up
A warm, collaborative team culture with strong support staff across all three facilities
Modern equipment and diagnostics
Competitive compensation and benefits package
Thoughtful scheduling with a focus on work–life balance
A community that genuinely needs you.

Your Role

Provide urgent care services including diagnostics, medications, therapies, and occasionally surgery
Work alongside experienced technicians and support staff to deliver efficient, compassionate care
Communicate clearly with clients regarding treatment plans, diagnostics, and follow-up care
Help develop and refine urgent care protocols as the program launches and grows
Represent the values and community mission that have defined Countryside for over three decades

Requirements

What We're Looking For

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM or VMD) degree from an AVMA-accredited institution
Active and unrestricted California veterinary license (or eligibility to obtain one)
Experience in urgent care, emergency medicine, or a fast-paced general practice setting preferred
Strong diagnostic and clinical skills with the ability to work efficiently under pressure
A collaborative, team-oriented approach — you work well with technicians, support staff, and colleagues
Excellent client communication skills — able to explain diagnoses and treatment plans clearly and compassionately
A self-starter mindset — this is a new program, and we value someone who can help build it, not just fill a schedule
A genuine interest in serving a rural community that currently lacks after-hours veterinary access
Willingness to work evening and/or Sunday hours as the program develops