Northwest Animal Hospital·Des Plaines, Illinois
The Associate Veterinarian will be responsible for examining and treating companion animals to diagnose and manage diseases or injuries, which includes operating diagnostic equipment and interpreting results. Essential duties also involve advising pet owners on care, performing necessary surgeries, prescribing medication, and maintaining accurate patient medical records.
Practice We are currently undergoing an exciting clinical evolution.
With a brand-new DVM team at the helm, we are actively redefining our medical protocols and elevating the standard of care for every patient that walks through our doors.
We built a patient-first environment from the ground up.
This is a rare chance to join a practice where your input helps shape our new workflows and ultimately provide the best medical care for our patients.
We are proud to highlight our intergrative medicine approach offering acupuncture, allergy testing, diet consultations, & supplements.
Position Purpose Associate Veterinarian – Northwest Animal HospitalDes Plaines, Illinois Northwest Animal Hospital is excited to welcome a compassionate and motivated Associate Veterinarian to our growing team!
If you’re looking for a practice where you can provide excellent medicine, collaborate with a supportive team, and truly enjoy coming to work each day, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
We are passionate about delivering high-quality veterinary care while maintaining a positive, fun, and team-focused culture.
Our hospital offers a unique blend of traditional veterinary medicine and integrative approaches, allowing our doctors to provide thoughtful, well-rounded care tailored to each patient’s needs.
About the Clinic Northwest Animal Hospital is a full-service companion animal practice offering wellness and preventative care, dentistry, surgery, diagnostics, internal medicine, and integrative veterinary care.
Our team is proud to provide a thoughtful blend of traditional veterinary medicine and holistic, natural approaches, giving our doctors the ability to create individualized care plans that support the whole patient.
One of the most exciting things happening at Northwest is our growing focus on integrative medicine.
Our Managing DVM, Dr.
Draca, is passionate about bringing additional healing options to pets and families in the Des Plaines community.
She currently offers diet consultations and fresh-feeding guidance, including home-cooked and raw diet recommendations when appropriate, helping clients better understand the role nutrition can play in long-term health and wellness.
Dr.
Draca is also nearing completion of her acupuncture certification and has already begun offering acupuncture services within the hospital.
In addition, she plans to pursue certification in Chinese herbal medicine, further expanding the hospital’s ability to offer complementary therapies alongside high-quality traditional care.
The team also incorporates supplement recommendations and natural wellness options when appropriate, creating a more comprehensive and personalized approach to patient care.
Northwest Animal Hospital is also excited to soon offer ozone therapy as part of its growing integrative medicine program.
About the Team Our team is one of the things that truly sets Northwest Animal Hospital apart.
You’ll be joining dedicated veterinarians, technicians, and support staff who believe collaboration, communication, and teamwork are key to providing excellent patient care.
Whether you are an experienced veterinarian or a newer graduate looking for mentorship, you will find a team that is eager to support your success and help you grow.
About the Area Located in Des Plaines, Illinois, Northwest Animal Hospital offers the perfect blend of suburban charm and big-city accessibility.
With beautiful parks, great restaurants, family-friendly neighborhoods, and easy access to nearby Chicago, the area offers a fantastic quality of life for individuals and families alike.
What We’re Looking For We’re seeking a veterinarian who: Is passionate about providing high-quality, compassionate careEnjoys collaborating with a supportive teamValues building strong client relationshipsHas an interest in progressive, well-rounded medicineIs open to learning more about integrative medicine, nutrition, acupuncture, and natural wellness optionsBrings a positive attitude and enthusiasm for growth
Competitive salarySign-on bonus opportunitiesFlexible scheduling and work-life balanceCE allowance and professional development opportunitiesComprehensive benefits packageSupportive, collaborative hospital cultureOpportunities to grow in both traditional and integrative veterinary medicine If you’re looking for a place where you can grow professionally, practice excellent medicine, and work with a team that truly enjoys what they do, Northwest Animal Hospital would love to meet you! Essential Responsibilities Examine and treat companion animals to detect and determine the nature of disease or injuries. Operate diagnostic equipment and collect diagnostic samples as well as interpret results. Advise pet owners on preventative care and treatment options. Perform surgery and prescribe medication as needed. Provide counsel around pet end of life care. Maintain patients’ medical records. Ensures compliance with veterinary ethics and relevant statues, policies, and procedures. Requirements/Qualifications DVM/VMD degree from an accredited AVMA institution. Appropriate state licensure. Eligibility to obtain DEA/BNDD. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrates professional and courteous presentation consistently with staff and clients. Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance. Benefits Offered Unlimited personal time Bonus incentives Health insurance; dental insurance; vision insurance Retirement benefits (401(k), Roth(k) with match) CE and licensure reimbursement Flexible work schedules Managing career path development Employee Assistance Program DVM Referral Program Mental Health Resources Relocation assistance available Pay Range USD $120,000.00 - USD $150,000.00 /Yr.
Candidates must possess a DVM/VMD degree from an AVMA-accredited institution and hold appropriate state licensure, along with eligibility to obtain DEA/BNDD credentials. Required qualifications also include excellent communication skills and the ability to maintain a professional presentation while handling physical tasks like lifting patients and equipment.
Market context
Illinois associate veterinarian roles are typically in steady demand, especially at general practices serving routine and preventive care needs. Competition often centers on clinical experience, communication skills, and readiness to secure state licensure plus DEA/BNDD eligibility; this posting’s AI-summarized requirements and benefits help you review the essentials faster. If you’re considering applying, confirm your DVM/VMD credentials and licensure status before submitting.
