River Ridge Animal Hospital·Dixon, Illinois
Examine and treat companion animals to diagnose and treat diseases or injuries using various diagnostic equipment. Provide preventative care advice, perform surgeries, and maintain detailed medical records while ensuring ethical compliance.
Practice River Ridge Animal Hospital has been serving the Sauk Valley area for over 75 years.
In our 17,000 square foot veterinary medical center, we offer general veterinary medicine and wellness care, therapeutic and surgical laser, digital radiology and ultrasound diagnostics, rhinoscopy, dental care, internal medicine, pet grooming, doggie daycare, and state of the art boarding.
It is home to 6 full-time DVMs, 2 part-time DVMs, 7 CVTs, and 40+ team members in total.
Position Purpose Associate Veterinarian – River Ridge Animal Hospital | Dixon, IL Join a team where you’re supported, valued, and excited to come to work each day.
At River Ridge Animal Hospital, we’re thrilled to welcome another veterinarian to our collaborative and compassionate team!
Whether you’re a new graduate looking for hands-on mentorship or an experienced DVM ready to thrive in a supportive environment, this is a place where you can truly grow your career.
About the Clinic River Ridge Animal Hospital is a well-established practice known for delivering high-quality, progressive medicine in a welcoming and team-focused environment.
Our loyal and engaged clientele seek out thoughtful, thorough care and are highly receptive to recommendations—allowing our doctors to practice the level of medicine they’re passionate about.
With a strong patient base and continued growth in the surrounding community, a new veterinarian will have no trouble building their own schedule and forming lasting client relationships right away.
About the Team Our team is what truly sets us apart.
You’ll be surrounded by experienced, supportive doctors and a skilled support staff who value collaboration, positivity, and continuous learning.
We genuinely enjoy working together and prioritize creating an environment where every team member feels respected and empowered.
We love to mentor and share knowledge, making this an excellent fit for new grads—but we also give experienced doctors the autonomy to practice medicine their way while still having a strong support system behind them.
Work-Life Balance That Works We believe great medicine starts with a well-supported team—and that includes your time outside of work.
Average 3.75-day work week 3-day weekend every other weekend Flexible scheduling options Full-time and part-time opportunities available Why Dixon, Illinois?
Nestled along the scenic Rock River, Dixon offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and access to big-city amenities.
Known as the heart of the Sauk Valley region, this close-knit community is surrounded by natural beauty—ideal for those who enjoy fishing, hiking, kayaking, and outdoor adventures.
You’ll also be within easy driving distance of Chicago and the Quad Cities, giving you access to top-tier dining, entertainment, and cultural experiences whenever you want a city escape.
If you’re looking for a practice where you can build meaningful relationships, practice great medicine, and enjoy your life outside of work, we’d love to connect with 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 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine 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 Competitive Compensation - All salary ranges are negotiable based on experience Unlimited personal time Up To $50k in Sign-On Bonuses 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 $115,000.00 - USD $120,000.00 /Yr.
Must hold a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from an AVMA-accredited institution and possess appropriate state licensure. Candidates must be eligible for DEA/BNDD and have the physical ability to lift patients up to 25 pounds.
Market context
In Illinois, dental support roles often draw steady interest because clinics need dependable staff who can communicate clearly, work safely, and adapt to patient flow. These positions can be competitive when employers want caregiving experience, a valid driver’s license, and background-check clearance, while benefits such as medical, dental, vision, flexible scheduling, and 401(k) may help candidates compare offers. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your caregiving experience and availability before applying.
