Veterinarian, Critical Care

About the Role

Calgary Animal Referral & Emergency Centre (C.A.R.E.) is seeking a residency-trained or board-certified Critical Care specialist to join a growing team of Criticalists. This is a permanent, full-time opportunity to advance a dynamic Critical Care department that operates 7 days a week as a core specialty service.

You'll take primary responsibility for managing critical inpatients, triaging emergency cases, and supporting the broader ER and specialty services. Beyond clinical work, you'll play a key role in mentoring interns and veterinary technicians, helping to elevate the quality of care across the hospital. The caseload is engaging and diverse, giving you the chance to tackle complex cases while building a collaborative practice culture that balances clinical excellence with genuine work-life balance.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide direct clinical management of critical inpatients and emergency triage cases
• Advance and develop the Critical Care department's clinical protocols and standards
• Work collaboratively with the Emergency Department and specialty services (Oncology, Neurology, Dermatology, Dentistry, Internal Medicine, Ophthalmology, Surgery, Radiology, Anesthesia)
• Mentor and provide clinical support to interns and veterinary technicians
• Contribute to teaching and professional development within the hospital

Requirements

• Valid DVM degree or equivalent, enabling practice in Canada
• Board certification (AVCECC or ECVECC) or residency training in Critical Care (eligible to sit for board examination)
• Current or eligible for licensure with the Alberta Veterinary Medical Association (ABVMA)
• Strong leadership skills and collaborative team-player attitude
• Excellent diagnostic and critical care clinical skills
• Strong organizational skills with ability to stay focused and perform under pressure
• Demonstrated commitment to mentoring and developing junior team members
• Exemplary client communication and service mindset

Benefits

• RRSP 5% Employer Group Match Program
• VCA Canada RRSP Student Loan Program
• VCA Academy Mentorship Program — a six-month tailored mentorship with ongoing support
• Medical Library Access — 2,000+ journals, 600+ textbooks, research, and more
• Continuing education benefits
• Licensing, membership dues, and conference fees covered
• Career and leadership development opportunities
• Referral bonus rewards
• Paid wellness days, paid sick days, and paid vacation time
• Employee assistance programs
• E-tools for meditation, sleep, exercise, and focus
• Virtual health care access
• Professional liability insurance coverage
• Community involvement opportunities through VCA Canada initiatives

About the Practice

C.A.R.E. is a 24-hour emergency and referral specialty hospital operating from a 26,000-square-foot facility in Calgary. The hospital offers a full spectrum of specialties including Critical Care, Oncology, Neurology, Dermatology, Dentistry, Internal Medicine, Ophthalmology, Surgery, Radiology, and Anesthesia. On-site diagnostics include digital radiography, ultrasound, in-house lab, endoscopy, fluoroscopy, CT, and MRI — giving you the tools to provide world-class care.

C.A.R.E. is part of VCA Canada, a network of veterinary hospitals with headquarters in Calgary and a legacy spanning nearly 45 years. VCA Canada operates over 1,000 animal hospitals and serves more than 4.5 million pets annually. The organization is committed to delivering excellence in medicine, supporting continuing education, fostering a collegial and team-based culture, and maintaining genuine work-life balance. In 2026, VCA Canada was recognized as one of Alberta's Top Employers (for the third consecutive year) and as one of Canada's Top Employers for Young People, and received Great Place to Work® Certification™ Canada. VCA Canada became part of the Mars Veterinary Health family in 2017, strengthening the organization's commitment to the veterinary profession and pet parents across the country.