Join Our Veterinary Team in Dubuque, IA
At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic, we’re more than a team. We’re a close-knit group of professionals who share a genuine love for animals and the people who care for them. As a locally owned practice, we’re proud to serve our community and create an environment where compassionate care and professional growth go hand in hand. If you’re looking for a place to build a lasting veterinary career surrounded by supportive colleagues and a welcoming community, you’ll feel right at home with us.
Open Positions at PetMed
Are you looking for a veterinary position where you can love your job and your life outside of it? At PetMed of Key West, we believe balance isn’t a buzzword—it’s how great medicine gets done. We’re currently seeking a compassionate, skilled, and down-to-earth Associate Veterinarian to join our growing team.
Our independently owned practice is built on teamwork, humor, and a shared commitment to both patient care and staff wellbeing. We take pride in providing exceptional medicine with a personal touch—and we don’t just say we value work-life balance, we live it.
What We Offer
- Base salary + production/commission — no negative accrual
- 4-day work week (no evenings, no Sundays, no overnights)
- 3 weeks PTO to start, because rest matters
- Generous CE allowance and paid CE days
- Health insurance stipend (or access to our in-house health plan)
- Long-term disability coverage
- Cloud-based medical record system (EzyVet) for seamless workflow
- Excellent staff support with a consistent 3:1 staff-to-doctor ratio
- Collaborative, drama-free environment where your ideas and voice matter
- New graduates welcome! Supportive, hands-on mentorship available from experienced clinicians with diverse case experience—including advanced surgery, ultrasound, exotics, and internal medicine
About Us
PetMed of Key West is a locally owned small animal and exotics practice in Dubuque, Iowa—a riverfront city known for its scenic beauty, affordable cost of living, and vibrant arts community. Our clients know us for our compassion, honesty, and advanced care options, from laser therapy and ultrasound to orthopedic surgeries and in-house lab work.
You’ll work alongside a supportive team of doctors and skilled technicians who truly enjoy what they do—and who make each day rewarding (and usually pretty fun).
About You
You’re a veterinarian who values collaboration, kindness, and communication. You practice high-quality medicine, treat every patient as an individual, and believe that empathy goes a long way. Whether you’re a seasoned clinician looking for a balanced, supportive team or a new graduate eager to learn and grow with guided mentorship, we’ll meet you where you are and help you thrive.
Ready to join a team that works hard, laughs often, and genuinely loves what they do?
We’d love to meet you.
Send your resume and cover letter to staff@dbqpetmed.com.
We’re not currently hiring for this position, but we’re always excited to meet passionate, hard-working people who love what we do as much as we do! If you’re looking for a clinic that truly values teamwork, humor, and compassion—for pets and their people—you might just find your home here.
At PetMed of Key West, we’re a long-standing, locally owned veterinary practice with an 11-member team that laughs a lot, works hard, and supports one another through the busiest (and sometimes messiest) of days. Our leadership team believes in open communication, mutual respect, and a strict no-drama policy.
We’d love to hear from you if you:
- Have hands-on animal experience (veterinary clinic experience strongly preferred)
- Are passionate about animal care and client communication
- Thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
- Appreciate a workplace that values both professionalism and personality
Day-to-day responsibilities include:
- Assisting with patient care: IV catheter placement, blood draws, medication administration, anesthesia monitoring, surgical prep and assistance, and vaccine preparation
- Maintaining a clean, organized, and safe work environment
- Supporting our clients through clear communication about medications, post-operative care, and preventive health
- Helping with customer service tasks: phones, check-ins/outs, and general clinic operations
Schedule Details:
- One to two Saturdays per month (7:55 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
- Monday – Friday 7:55am – 5pm; FT is considered 36 hours per week
- Regular weekday hours: 7:55 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (with a one-hour lunch break)
- Part-time applicants must be available Wednesdays and Fridays 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m., minimum 20 hours per week
If you’re looking for a practice that treats its staff like family, celebrates teamwork, and believes laughter is part of good medicine—we’d love to meet you.
We may not have an opening right now, but we’re always interested in meeting caring, capable, and community-minded people who love animals (and the humans who come with them). If you’re the kind of person who can juggle phone calls, client check-ins, and puppy kisses—all with a smile—then you might be exactly who we’re looking for.
At PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic, our front desk team is the heartbeat of the practice. You’re the first face clients see, the calm voice on the phone, and the steady hand that helps keep our busy clinic running smoothly. We’re a small, close-knit crew that believes in teamwork, laughter, and supporting each other—because veterinary medicine is serious work, but it doesn’t have to be stuffy.
What you’ll do:
- Welcome clients and their pets with warmth, professionalism, and genuine care
- Answer and manage a multi-line phone system (and stay friendly even on the 10th ring)
- Schedule appointments, manage records, and help coordinate a busy daily flow
- Provide clear, compassionate communication to clients—both in person and over the phone
- Support our veterinary team by keeping the front desk organized, efficient, and upbeat
What we’re looking for:
- Excellent English and communication skills—verbal, written, and everything in between
- Strong computer skills and the ability to learn new programs quickly
- A friendly, composed presence even when things get hectic
- Comfort working around animals, noise, and the occasional mystery smell
- A positive attitude and a strong sense of teamwork
Hours:
- Part-time: minimum 8–12 hours per week, depending on the week
- Full-time available if desired
- Regular weekday hours: 7:55 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (with a one-hour lunch break)
- 1–2 Saturdays per month required (7:55 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.)
If you’re organized, kind, and love being the friendly voice that helps pet parents and their furry family members feel at ease, we’d love to connect with you—even if we’re not hiring this very moment.
Why Dubuque, IA?
Dubuque combines the warmth of a small town with the energy and amenities of a growing city. Set along the scenic Mississippi River, it’s a place where you can build your career, enjoy a strong sense of community, and make time for the things you love outside of work.
Rolling bluffs, riverfront parks, hiking trails, and breathtaking views in every direction.
Affordable housing and everyday expenses mean your paycheck goes further.
Home to galleries, live music, film festivals, museums, and a thriving local theater scene.
Enjoy short commutes, strong schools, and easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
A welcoming, family-friendly city with forward-thinking energy and genuine Midwestern kindness.
Scenic Beauty
Rolling bluffs, riverfront parks, hiking trails, and breathtaking views in every direction.
Low Cost of Living
Affordable housing and everyday expenses mean your paycheck goes further.
Arts & Culture
Home to galleries, live music, film festivals, museums, and a thriving local theater scene.
Community with Convenience
Enjoy short commutes, strong schools, and easy access to dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Tight-Knit Yet Progressive
A welcoming, family-friendly city with forward-thinking energy and genuine Midwestern kindness.
Comprehensive Benefits Designed with You in Mind
We care about your happiness and success both inside and outside the clinic. PetMed offers a well-rounded benefits package designed to help you thrive professionally and personally.
For Full-Time Team Members:
Your dedication deserves to be recognized with fair, competitive play.
Take a break, connect with coworkers, and enjoy good food together.
Keep your own pets healthy with discounted care from our team.
We encourage learning and provide resources to help you grow your skills.
Choose the coverage that best fits your lifestyle and needs. Also includes access to our in-house plan.
A balanced schedule that supports your life outside of work.
Enjoy time away to relax, recharge, and spend it with family or friends.
Peace of mind knowing you're protected if life takes an unexpected turn.
Work with a team that values kindness, communication, and teamwork.
For Veterinarians:
Your effort and expertise are rewarded without the pressure of negative accrual.
Stay current and inspired with financial support for conferences and training.
Modern, efficient systems that make patient care smoother and simpler.
No evenings, no Sundays, and no overnight shifts. Enjoy a predictable schedule with plenty of personal time.
Flexible coverage options designed to support your health and peace of mind. Also includes access to our in-house plan.
You’ll have reliable, experienced staff by your side for every case.
Take time to rest and recharge so you can bring your best self to work.
Coverage paid by the clinic to protect you when you need it most.
Receive guidance and hands-on training from experienced clinicians ready to help you succeed.
Experience Life in Dubuque, IA
Dubuque, Iowa offers a great mix of outdoor adventure and historic charm. Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator for sweeping views of the Mississippi River, explore the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, or hike through the scenic Mines of Spain Recreation Area. You can also unwind at the Dubuque Arboretum & Botanical Gardens or stroll the Mississippi Riverwalk to enjoy public art, local shops, and riverfront views.