Job Title: Veterinary Social Worker

Department: Management

Reports To: Hospital Administrator

Status: ** X Non-Exempt Hourly**

Wage Range: $30.00-$35.00

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Job Description Updated: 2/24/26

Job Type: Part-Time, Flexible Hours

** Location: In-House**

Position Summary

The Veterinary Social Worker (VSW) provides compassionate emotional support, grief counseling, and client advocacy within the hospital. This role bridges medical care and client well-being by supporting owners through difficult decisions, connecting them with resources, and providing staff debriefing and wellness support. The VSW also coordinates with outside organizations, manages documentation related to grief and aftercare, and assists with staff engagement initiatives.

Essential Functions

· Provide emotional support and grief counseling to pet owners in person and over the phone.

· Facilitate discussions around quality of life (QOL), end-of-life decisions, and connect owners to at-home euthanasia services.

· Notify and collaborate with SPCA, City of Buffalo Animal Shelter, Ten Lives, and other agencies regarding abuse, neglect, strays, or surrender cases; transport small animals within carriers if needed.

· Explain stray adoption and surrender processes, ensuring completion of appropriate liability forms.

· Coordinate with low-cost veterinary clinics and community resources; forward records and facilitate referrals.

· Act as a liaison with Erie County Department of Health and Dignified Group Services (DGS) regarding rabies suspects and aftercare questions.

· Provide staff support through debriefing difficult patient situations, referrals to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and access to wellness resources.

· Serve as the “EAP liaison” to coordinate onsite presentations and counseling resources.

· Assist with the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) related to social work, grief, and aftercare processes.

· Assist with maintaining and restocking of the Rainbow Room, necropsy room, grief/QOL folders, and resources.

· Manage cremains processes, including check-in (M/W/F), auditing, letters to owners, and follow-up communication.

· Ensure sympathy materials are stocked and distributed.

· Support staff appreciation and engagement events, assist with monthly raffles, and participate in committees.

· Act as a positive role model, promoting teamwork, professionalism, and open communication.

· Present grief and support-related topics during DVM Mentorship rounds.

Education and Experience

· Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW) is required.

· Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York State preferred.

· Experience in veterinary, medical, or hospice/palliative care settings is highly desirable.

· Training or experience in grief counseling and crisis intervention preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to navigate emotionally charged conversations.

· Knowledge of grief and bereavement processes, pet loss, and family support systems.

· Familiarity with local and regional social services, mental health, and veterinary support resources.

· Ability to collaborate across hospital departments and external organizations.

· Excellent organizational and documentation skills.

· Capacity to balance emotional support with administrative tasks.