At PetVet Care Centers, our mission is to improve the lives of animals and people — providing exceptional and compassionate care at every stage — for all the moments that matter.
Because life is better with pets.
We deliver the Ultimate Care Experience — every pet, every client, every time. That starts with a Culture of Care that supports our team members as much as the pets and clients we serve.
With more than 420 locally led hospitals and over 11,000 team members nationwide , we offer :
You care for pets. We care for you.
Position Overview
We are seeking a dedicated Specialty Medical Director to lead our team of specialists and emergency veterinarians. The Specialty Medical Director (SMD) is responsible for providing strong leadership for the hospital, managing and mentoring associate veterinarians, and assuring regulatory compliance relating to the practice of veterinary medicine. The SMD is also responsible for maintaining an environment of teamwork in which the highest quality veterinary medicine is delivered. In partnership with the hospital leadership team, the SMD holds shared responsibility for the financial health of the hospital, directing staff and the overall management of practice operations. The SMD also serves as a staff veterinarian in addition to the administrative and leadership duties of the SMD role. Effective SMDs demonstrate strong work and professional ethics, a positive attitude, and uphold a high standard of patient care. They are part of the foundation upon which successful veterinary practices are built and directly impact and influence hospital culture and morale.
Formerly known as Animal Emergency of McHenry County and renamed in 2013, Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital (CASE) has proudly provided exceptional medical care and personalized service to companion animals since 1997. We remain the only 24 / 7 specialty, referral, and emergency hospital in the greater McHenry County region, allowing for a diverse caseload.
In addition to our long-trusted and established emergency care, CASE offers internal medicine, and rehab-certified veterinarians to provide a comprehensive, collaborative approach to care for both inpatients and outpatients. We use state-of-the-art diagnostic modalities and therapeutic procedures including on-site CT imaging.
An ideal candidate will be Residency Trained or Board-Certified in Emergency and Critical Care, Small Animal Surgery, or Small Animal Internal Medicine, and will add their own dynamic abilities and personality to our dedicated & expert staff. Leadership experience is preferred but not required.
What This Position Offers
Crystal Lake is located 50 miles northwest of Chicago, Illinois. You will truly enjoy all of the amenities Crystal Lake has to offer as a modern city of over 40,000, but with a special small‑town charm. Living in Crystal Lake is an experience of its own, with its unique charm and friendly community.
Ready to take the next step? Apply today! For questions or to connect directly, please email your resume to Emily Lunsford at elunsford@petvetcarecenters.com .
Key Responsibilities
Maintaining a high quality of progressive veterinary care
Qualifications (Required)
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have)
What We Offer
Pay Range
$150,000 — $250,000 USD
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals , including 1700+ veterinarians , we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy , empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin / ancestry, physical / mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M / F / D / V
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Why Consider Our Crystal Lake Hospital?
At CASE Hospital, our team members all share the same passion for making and keeping animals healthy.
Our hospital truly is an excellent place to work, with a highly skilled team focused on 'best in practice' veterinary care.
We are very supportive of individuals looking to grow their veterinary careers and look forward to hearing from you.
We invite you to explore your veterinary career options with CASE Hospital, where you'll be a respected member of a team that loves animals and values the contributions from every individual on the team.
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Medical Director Specialty • Chicago, IL, United States