Dr. Barta opened Barta Animal Hospital in January 1973 in a former automotive repair shop that he had remodeled. He built a new clinic in 1997. Dr. Barta grew his clinic from one doctor and two staff into today’s successful, growing practice.

We are a true mixed animal practice, providing high-quality veterinary services in Southeast Kansas for pets of all sizes.

Associate Veterinarian | Mixed Animal Medicine with Heart
Independence, Kansas

At Barta Animal Hospital, we’ve been caring for pets, livestock, and even the occasional zoo animal since 1973. Our roots run deep in Southeast Kansas, but our vibe is anything but old-school. We believe in modern medicine, genuine connections, and making sure both our patients and our people feel seen, heard, and supported.

We’re looking for a veterinarian who wants more than “just a job.” You want community. You want purpose. You want to work with a team that has your back, celebrates your wins, and gives you the flexibility to have a life outside the clinic (hello, Unlimited Personal Time Away).

Why You’ll Love It Here
🐾 A Culture You Can Breathe In – No egos, no drama—just good people who care about what they do.
🐄 Variety Every Day – From small animal wellness visits to farm calls and even caring for the town’s free zoo animals. (Yep, that’s a thing.)
💡 Mentorship That Matters – Dr. Cooper is a large animal legend, and his mentorship has shaped incredible careers—like Dr. Wilczek, who now works side-by-side with him.
🛠 Tools That Work as Hard as You Do – Hydraulic cattle chute, in-house IDEXX lab, digital & portable x-ray, brand-new ultrasound, and digital dental x-ray.
🌱 Room to Grow – We’ll support your career path, whether that’s honing your surgical skills, expanding into new species, or becoming a community leader.

• The Work You’ll Do

  • Provide care for pets and large animals (we love a good mixed-bag day).

  • Diagnose, treat, and perform surgeries.

  • Guide pet parents through preventive care and treatment options.

  • Offer compassionate end-of-life support.

• What We’re Looking For

  • DVM degree + state licensure (or ability to get it).

  • You communicate like a human, not a textbook.

  • You’re collaborative, adaptable, and care about your community.

• Perks & Benefits

  • Competitive pay (negotiable) + bonus incentives

  • Unlimited Personal Time Away (yes, really)

  • Health, dental, vision insurance

  • 401(k) and Roth(k) with match

  • CE and licensure reimbursement

  • Flexible scheduling

  • Mental health resources & EAP

  • Relocation assistance if you’re moving in

  Life in Independence, KS
  This is small-town life with a big heart. Expect neighbors who know your name, clients who bring you cookies, and the freedom to actually enjoy your time off—without a two-hour commute home.

  Ready to love your job and your life? Let’s talk.