Veterinary Assistant

Job Summary

In addition to the responsibilities outlined below, the Veterinary Technician is an invaluable member of the hospital team who works directly with the Veterinary Technician and supporting medical staff to ensure productive and quality veterinary care at all times.  Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Job Responsibilities

·       Assists the veterinarian during examination of animals, providing restraint as needed in order to work safely and effectively.

·       Prepares and administer medications, vaccines, serums, and treatments, as prescribed by the veterinarian.

·       Performs routine dental cleanings on animals under the direction of the veterinarian. (RVTs)

·       Administers anesthesia to animals under the direction of the veterinarian and monitors animals’ responses to anesthetics so that dosages can be adjusted.

·       Obtains radiographs of animals with knowledge of proper positioning and techniques.

·       Cares for and monitors the condition of animals recovering from surgery.

·       Performs laboratory tests on blood, urine, and feces, such as urinalyses and blood counts, to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems.

·       Administers emergency first aid, such as performing emergency resuscitation or other life-saving procedures to patients.

·       Collects, prepares, and labels samples for laboratory testing, culture, or microscopic examination.

·       Completes skin and ear cytology slide assessments in house.

·       Completes bandages and splint applications under supervision of DVM.

·       Cleans and sterilizes instruments, equipment, and materials.

·       Provides the veterinarian with the correct equipment and instruments, as needed.

·       Fills prescriptions, measuring medications and labeling containers.

·       Prepares animals for surgery, performing such tasks as shaving surgical areas and placing IV catheters.

·       Maintains clean examination rooms and treatment areas.

·       Works collaboratively with veterinarians to ensure that all animals are being cared for properly and moving through the system efficiently.

·       Shared schedule of holidays to care for patients as needed.

·       Participate weekly to monthly in care of patients after hours on an as needed basis in need of hospitalization.

·       Assists with all wellness plan care.

·       Assists with emergency care.

·       Routine weekend shifts.

·       Holiday Shifts.

Skills and Basic Qualifications

·       Certification as a Veterinary Technician or RVT license. If unlicensed technician will need to complete additional training protocols in first 90 days and obtain VACSP within first 30 days.  

·       Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively and efficiently in a fast paced environment.

·       Ability to effectively handle and control aggressive animals.

·       Must be able to handle the physical and emotional aspect of work in a veterinary clinic environment, including the use of euthanasia.

·       Models a professional and courteous manner with staff and clients.

·       Commitment to ongoing educational development and growth.

·       Must have active listening, critical thinking, complex problem solving, time management, judgment and decision making skills.

• Compensation
  • Base hourly rate of $18.00-$21.00 DOE 
• Benefits:
  • Medical, Vision, Dental insurance
  • 401(k)
  • Health Savings Account
  • Paid time off
  • Employee discounts
  • Allowances