Veterinary Nutritionist

Job Description:

Veterinary Nutritionist (Companion Animals)

Position Title:

Nutritionist – Companion Animals

Count of Position:

1 [One]

Location:

Ahmedabad

Job Type:

Full-time / Part Time

Reports To:

Chief Veterinary Officer

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly skilled Veterinary Nutritionist specializing in companion animals to join our team. The Veterinary Nutritionist will be responsible for assessing the nutritional needs of our patients, developing customized diet plans, and collaborating with veterinarians and pet parents to ensure optimal health outcomes through proper nutrition. This role involves both clinical care and client education to support the well-being of animals.

Key Responsibilities:

Nutritional Assessments:

• Perform thorough evaluations of the dietary needs of companion animals, including dogs, cats, and other small animals.
• Assess nutritional requirements based on breed, age, weight, health status, and specific medical conditions.
• Collaborate with veterinarians to address nutritional concerns related to medical conditions such as obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, gastrointestinal disorders, and more.

Diet Formulation and Implementation:

• Design and customize balanced and tailored nutrition plans for individual pets.
• Recommend commercial diets or formulate homemade recipes, both non-vegetarian and vegetarian when necessary to meet specific health needs.
• Provide guidance on feeding schedules, portion sizes, and dietary modifications based on routine check-up and health response and progress of the pet.

Client Education and Consultation:

• Work directly with pet parents to educate them on the importance of proper nutrition for their pets.
• Provide counseling on managing food allergies, dietary intolerances, and other special dietary requirements.
• Address questions and concerns from pet parents regarding nutritional care and assist with ongoing support.

Collaboration with Clinical Team:

• Partner with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and other hospital staff to integrate nutritional plans into overall patient care.
• Monitor the effectiveness of dietary plans and adjust recommendations as necessary.
• Participate in multidisciplinary care, contributing nutritional insights during treatment planning for chronic and complex cases.

Research and Continuing Education:

• Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in veterinary nutrition and emerging research in animal health and diets.
• Implement new findings into the hospital’s practice and provide education to the veterinary team about new nutritional strategies.
• Conduct research and trials on companion animal nutrition when appropriate.

Regulatory Compliance and Record Keeping:

• Ensure that all dietary recommendations are in compliance with veterinary nutrition guidelines and regulations.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including nutritional history, diet plans, and ongoing adjustments.

Qualifications:

• Degree in veterinary nutrition from an accredited institution.
• Specialized training or certification in veterinary nutrition is highly preferred.
• Experience in providing nutritional care to companion animals in a clinical setting.
• Strong knowledge of commercial and therapeutic diets, as well as ability to formulate homemade diets.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with the clinical team and pet owners.
• Strong analytical skills to assess nutritional needs and make data-driven recommendations.
• Passion for animal care and well-being, with a focus on improving quality of life through nutrition.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to handle and evaluate animals of various sizes.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks related to animal care.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package as applicable.
• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education in veterinary nutrition.
• Collaborative and supportive work environment focused on the health and well-being of companion animals.