Not every veterinarian is suited to welfare work. This opportunity is for someone who understands that compassion must be matched with resilience, sound clinical judgement and the ability to lead.
An established animal welfare organisation in beautiful Hermanus is seeking a mature, experienced Companion Animal Veterinarian to take the lead in a busy welfare clinic serving some of the most vulnerable communities in the surrounding area.
This is not a typical veterinary practice. The clinic deals with challenging welfare cases daily, from Parvovirus and Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) to serious vehicle-related injuries, alongside routine consultations, treatments and surgeries. The work can be emotionally demanding, and the successful candidate must be prepared to face difficult realities while remaining focused on delivering the best possible care to every animal.
The Role
The veterinarian plays a central role in the day-to-day running of the clinic, taking responsibility for clinical care while helping ensure that the team operates effectively. With a high volume of patients, scheduled appointments and frequent walk-in emergencies, this is a hands-on position that requires confidence, sound decision-making and the ability to prioritise under pressure.
The organisation cares for approximately 50 dogs and 40 cats in its shelter at any given time, and the veterinarian is also responsible for treating the organisation's own animals.
The successful candidate will work alongside a dedicated team that includes a Junior veterinarian, veterinary nurse, a veterinary technology student, two full-time receptionists, administrative support and cleaning staff. The wider organisation employs 21 full-time staff, has a General Manager and also operates two charity shops.
Who Will Thrive in This Environment?
The ideal candidate will be an experienced companion animal veterinarian who understands the realities of welfare medicine and can manage the clinical and emotional demands of the role. They will be confident in consultations, medical treatments and surgical procedures, with the maturity to work independently and the leadership ability to guide, support and hold the surrounding team accountable.
While welfare work can provide an excellent starting point for newly qualified veterinarians, this position calls for someone with greater clinical experience, a steady temperament and preferably some leadership or team management experience.
Above all, the organisation needs a veterinarian who is compassionate without losing sight of practicality, resilient in the face of difficult cases and genuinely committed to improving animal welfare.
Working Hours and Benefits
Monday to Thursday: 08:00–17:00, with the clinic closing between 13:00 and 14:00.
Friday: 08:00–16:00, with no lunch break.
Every second Saturday: 08:00–12:00.
After-hours call-outs are exceptionally rare, generally occurring only once or twice a year. Most after-hours emergencies are referred to Hermanus's 24-hour animal hospital.
A competitive salary and leave benefits are offered.
This is an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of animals and the communities that depend on accessible veterinary care, while enjoying the lifestyle and natural beauty of Hermanus and its surroundings.
For a veterinarian who wants their work to have a meaningful impact, is comfortable taking responsibility and has the experience to help lead a busy welfare clinic, this could be a particularly rewarding next step.
Interested candidates are invited to apply online or contact Amanda at amanda@optivet.co.za for more information.
