Veterinarian

Veterinarian – Marine Mammals

Position Summary

The Veterinarian is responsible for the medical care, welfare, and preventive health programs of all marine mammals under the care of Dolphin Discovery Cayman Ltd. This role requires advanced clinical skills, strong knowledge of marine mammal physiology, behavior, and husbandry, and the ability to work collaboratively with trainers, animal care staff, management, and regulatory authorities.

The Veterinarian ensures that all animal health and welfare practices meet or exceed Cayman Islands legal requirements, international welfare standards, and Dolphin Discovery protocols.

Minimum Requirements

Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree or equivalent from an accredited institution. Valid veterinary license to practice in the Cayman Islands, or eligibility to obtain one. Minimum of four years of clinical veterinary experience, including at least two years working directly with marine mammals (dolphins, pinnipeds, or other cetaceans). Experience in aquatic animal medicine, avian medicine, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia, and emergency response. Strong understanding of marine mammal behavior, operant conditioning, and husbandry practices. Strong communication and documentation skills. Professional proficiency in spoken and written English. CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain certification. Ability to work in outdoor, aquatic, and physically demanding environments.

Key Responsibilities

1. Veterinary Care & Clinical Management

Provide daily medical oversight for all marine mammals and any other species under the facility’s care. Conduct routine physical examinations, diagnostic testing, and laboratory analyses. Develop and implement individualized treatment plans. Perform medical procedures, including anesthesia, minor surgeries, wound care, and emergency interventions. Maintain accurate medical records in accordance with Cayman Islands regulations and Dolphin Discovery standards.

2. Preventive Health & Welfare

Lead preventive medicine programs, including vaccination and parasite control protocols if applicable. Conduct routine health assessments, body condition scoring, and behavioral health evaluations. Oversee water quality monitoring from a veterinary perspective. Ensure compliance with international marine mammal welfare guidelines. Participate in enrichment planning to support behavioral and psychological well-being.

3. Nutrition & Husbandry Oversight

Approve and monitor dietary plans, supplements, and feeding protocols. Work closely with marine mammal specialists to ensure proper food handling, storage, and nutritional balance. Participate in behavioral training sessions to support voluntary medical behaviors.

4. Regulatory Compliance

Ensure compliance with the Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture, Veterinary Board, and applicable wildlife and environmental regulations. Prepare and submit required veterinary reports, health certificates, and regulatory documentation. Support inspections, audits, and licensing processes.

5. Staff Training & Collaboration

Provide ongoing training to animal care staff on health monitoring, emergency response, and safe handling practices. Collaborate with marine mammal specialists, animal care staff, and management on animal health, welfare initiatives, and long-term health planning.

6. Emergency Response

Lead the veterinary response during medical emergencies, strandings, or critical incidents. Maintain emergency medical supplies and ensure staff readiness. Develop and update emergency protocols for marine mammals.

7. Research & Professional Development

Participate in approved research projects related to marine mammal health and welfare. Stay current with advancements in aquatic animal medicine. Represent Dolphin Discovery in professional veterinary and marine mammal networks. Core Competencies

Strong clinical judgment and problem-solving skills. Calm, decisive, and professional under pressure. Excellent communication and teamwork abilities. Commitment to animal welfare and ethical veterinary practice. Ability to build trust with animals through positive reinforcement and consistent handling. Physical Requirements

Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physically demanding tasks. Comfortable working around deep water, platforms, and marine environments.