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Southlake Animal Hospital
Give us a call today! 219-942-0909
Call us today! 219-942-0909

3570 E. Lincoln Hwy
Merrillville, IN 46410

Fetch an Appointment!

Employment Opportunities

Want to Join Us on Our Journey?

You can view a list of our current OPENINGS below:


The dedicated and supportive Veterinarians at Southlake Animal Hospital know that the best, most successful DVM’s have likely been the fortunate recipient of mentorship and guidance from more experienced peers. Passing on our love for the profession by sharing our knowledge with students is one way we give back to the field we have dedicated our lives to.

Our rapidly growing, full service veterinary hospital is the perfect place for aspiring veterinarians like you to practice the skills you have worked so hard to learn. You will benefit from hands on experience with traditional medicine as well as chiropractic and holistic care. We also offer paid opportunities for qualifying students, allowing you to gain valuable real-world experience while further developing your skills. If you are a vet student in search of a great practice for your internship or externship, please contact us at bernervet@gmail.com for more information and discuss opportunities with our hospital.

Associate Veterinarian Integrative Medicine

Schedule: 4-day work week | Mon 8-6, Tues 8-5, Thurs 8-6:30, Fri 8-5 (no weekends!)

About Us

Southlake Animal Hospital has been serving the Merrillville community since 1980. In 2015, Dr. Carlson, who began working here as a high school student, became the proud owner. Our hospital blends traditional veterinary medicine with holistic care, offering full-service medical and surgical care alongside acupuncture, food therapy, Chinese herbal medicine, and ozone. 

We are a supportive, close-knit team of a DVM, a registered technician, and 9 dedicated support staff (and were ready to hire more support to help our next doctor succeed). Our clients value our compassionate and integrative approach, and our hospital’s culture focuses on collaboration, mentorship, and work-life balance.

What You’ll Do

  • Provide comprehensive care through an integrative approach, addressing both conventional and holistic treatment options.
  • Build and maintain strong client relationships.
  • Diagnose and manage a wide range of small animal cases.
  • Perform routine surgeries and dental procedures (emergency surgery possible but not expected).
  • Contribute to a team-oriented environment where patient care comes first.
  • What Were Looking For DVM (or equivalent) with the ability to be licensed in Indiana.
  • Eligible for Indiana controlled substance registration.
  • Certifications in acupuncture, herbal medicine, or chiropractic care are preferred but if you’re passionate about holistic medicine, we’re willing to invest in your training.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A team player who values collaboration but can also work independently.
  • Commitment to excellence, ethics, and a compassionate approach to patient care.
  • Why Join UsCompensation: Competitive ProSal model (base + production), starting salary aligned with market rates.
  • Bonuses: quarterly performance incentives.
  • Time Off: No weekend hours, guaranteed Wednesday + weekends off.
  • Benefits:
    • 401(k) with matching
    • Health insurance
    • Paid time off
    • Uniform allowance
    • CE allowance including tuition reimbursement for holistic training
    • At-cost veterinary care for your pets
  • Culture & Extras:
    • Annual team retreat (including Christmas weekend trip)
    • Mentorship as much or as little as you’d like
    • A fun, compassionate, and supportive work environment
    • Partnership opportunities available

Location Perks

We’re in northwest Indiana just minutes from the Indiana Dunes National Park and less than an hour from Chicago. The area offers charming communities, great schools, cultural diversity, festivals, excellent restaurants, and a lower cost of living than nearby metro areas.

Join Our Team

If you’re ready to practice veterinary medicine in a supportive, forward-thinking environment where you can grow in integrative care and still enjoy a healthy work-life balance, Southlake Animal Hospital is the place for you.