POSITION PURPOSE

The role of the Veterinary Assistant is to assist in the wellness of all animals by offering the high-quality veterinary care they deserve to attain their best 2nd chance.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Set up surgical procedures, assist in the flow of patients, and adhere to safety standards
• Pre-medicate, induce anesthesia, and intubate, monitor anesthesia, assess anesthetic risk
• Administer medications and vaccinations, as ordered by Veterinarian
• Review reported medical concerns, evaluate wellbeing of all animals, report results to Clinic Manager
• Assist with admissions and release of patients, including delivery post op instructions in a competent manner
• Collect lab samples (urine via free catch or cystocentesis, phlebotomy, feces, skin scrapings etc.
• Clean, scale and polish teeth
• Prepare samples to send out or perform in-house tests, maintain laboratory log and equipment
• Perform all patient treatments ordered by veterinarian
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of treatment, surgery, exam rooms and clinic
• Prepare surgical packs
• Perform routine kennel duties including walking, feeding, medicating, scrubbing and mopping

Competencies

• Skilled in intravenous injection experience and intubating animals for surgery
• Must possess excellent reflexes
• Uphold a strong commitment to the welfare and proper treatment of animals
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment, handle fluctuating priorities and projects
• Ability to use appropriate safety equipment for fractious or feral animals
• Work well independently and as part of a team
• Skilled at recognizing characteristics of animal behavior (identify aggressive or fearful behavior)

Education

High school or equivalent education required

Experience

• Experience as a veterinary assistant in a veterinary clinic environment is preferred
• Experience in shelter medicine preferred
• Experience with animal handling and restraint, animal health and behavior assessments
• Experience with giving intravenous injections and intubating animals for surgery
• Some experience in anesthesia and surgery
• Some experience with large animals

Eligibility Requirements

Must have valid driver’s license

CLASSIFICATION- Non-exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)

POSITION TYPE

Position is Full time. Typical work hours are between 8 AM and 4:30 PM. Due to the cyclical nature of the industry, employees may be required to work varying schedules to meet the needs of the business. Weekend and holiday shifts required. Attendance at training sessions and meetings is required.

Travel - Occasional travel is required to area rescues, AAR locations and community clinics.