What are the responsibilities and job description for the Animal Care Assistant position at Old Dominion Animal Hospital?
Job Title: Veterinary Animal Care Assistant
Location: Old Dominion Animal Hospital Charlottesville
Job Type: Full-time
Reports To: Veterinary Technician/Manager
Job Summary:
We are looking for a compassionate, hardworking team member to join our veterinary hospital. This role supports the veterinary team by assisting with the care of animals, ensuring the cleanliness of the hospital, and maintaining a safe and efficient environment for both animals and staff. You will be responsible for holding animals during exams and treatments, as well as performing routine cleaning and maintenance duties throughout the facility.
Key Responsibilities:
- Animal Handling and Care:
- Safely hold and restrain animals during examinations, procedures, and treatments as directed by the veterinarian or veterinary technician.
- Provide comfort and support to animals before, during, and after procedures to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Assist in preparing animals for surgery or medical procedures by ensuring they are properly positioned and monitored.
- Assist with animal transport between hospital areas and help ensure their safety and well-being.
- Hospital Cleanliness and Maintenance:
- Regularly clean and disinfect exam rooms, treatment areas, cages, kennels, and other hospital spaces according to established cleaning protocols.
- Dispose of waste and clean animal bedding, bowls, and equipment.
- Maintain cleanliness in public areas such as the reception area, waiting room, and hallways.
- Ensure that all hospital equipment and tools are clean, sanitized, and well-maintained.
- Assist with stocking supplies and maintaining inventory for cleaning and medical materials.
- Team Support:
- Work collaboratively with veterinary technicians, veterinarians, and other staff to ensure a smooth and effective workflow.
- Follow safety protocols to ensure a safe environment for both staff and animals.
- Assist in minor tasks such as filling water bowls, offering food, or ensuring animals have adequate bedding.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
- Previous experience working with animals (preferred).
- Ability to work with a variety of animal species and handle animals of different sizes and temperaments.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to lift and move animals as needed, and physically perform cleaning duties throughout the day.
- Comfort with potential exposure to animal fluids and other biological materials.
Physical Requirements:
- Must be able to stand, bend, and kneel for extended periods of time.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Comfortable working in an environment with animals, medical equipment, and cleaning agents.
Benefits :
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Employee discounts on pet services and products
- Simple Plan
If you're passionate about animals and want to make a difference in their care while helping to maintain a clean and efficient hospital environment, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to join our dedicated team.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $14.00 - $17.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 10 hour shift
Work Location: In person
Salary : $14 - $17