Veterinary Assistant

Position SummaryThe Veterinary Assistant supports and assists the Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians, ensuring the safety of pets and clients, and the continuity of quality veterinary care. They work to keep pets safe and comfortable during their visit.What You’ll Do (Essential Functions)Foster a culture built on our values: Respect, Learning, Do the Right Thing, WOW Service, and FunClean, disinfect, and prepare exam rooms, medical equipment, and surgery between each appointmentObtain initial patient information, medical histories, vaccination records, and the reason for the pet’s visit. Document patient information, and update recordsCalm, soothe, comfort, and restrain pets before, during, and after proceduresTake note on examination results and update records as directed by veterinariansProvide the owners education, resources and information on how best to care for pets in general, at the Veterinarian’s direction, for specific conditions, and after various proceduresMonitor and track pet’s physical status and vital signs following surgeryMonitor, record, and report the physical condition and vital signs of the hospitalized and boarded petsClean and disinfect cages, pens, runs, and boarding areasFeed, water, bathe, and exercise pets during their visitRespond to general questions from clientsPerform and set up procedures that do not require Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician assistanceExamine pets, performing basic health checks, looking for signs of disease, illness, or injury, and treat them under the direction of the VeterinarianMay administer medication, perform routine laboratory tests, fill prescriptions, and educate client on use and side effects of medication under the direction of a Veterinarian or Veterinary TechnicianProvide professional, efficient, quality care and exceptional service to clients while maintaining maximum productivitySupport a practice environment that promotes collaboration and teamwork and ensures the delivery of quality, compassionate, effective, and efficient health care to petsComply with all practice policies, quality assurance guidelines, and minimum standards of carePerform other duties as requestedEducationHigh School Diploma or GED required.Professional Licenses / CertificationsCertificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program preferred.ExperienceOne year of experience in an emergency or specialty hospital preferred.Skills, Ability and KnowledgeBroad knowledge of animal scienceBasic knowledge of pharmacologyProficiency with a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Outlook, Word and industry internet sitesBasic written, verbal, and active listening communication skills with a customer-oriented approachBasic mathematical skills to ensure the administration of accurate drug and fluid dosesBasic analytical, critical thinking, judgement, and problem‑solving skillsCompassion and empathy for both pets and pet ownersInteract with a variety of clients and employees in a professional, caring, compassionate, and tactful mannerStrong attention to detail and high level of accuracyStrong organizational and time management skills, including managing multiple prioritiesHandle and maintain sensitive and confidential information with discretionMaintain a calm demeanor in a work environment that fluctuates from orderly to fast paced and stressfulWorking Conditions / Physical DemandsWhile performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to talk and hear. The team member must frequently use a computer for long periods of time. Specific vision abilities are required to do this job including close vision. This position requires walking, standing, and sitting for long periods of time. May be exposed to low to moderate noise levels as well as disinfectant/sanitation chemicals, pet dander, and excretions. May experience aggressive, frightened, abused or injured pets that bite and scratch. This position requires exerting up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds frequently, and/or 10 pounds constantly in order to lift, carry, pull or move objects. Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.Supervisory ResponsibilitiesThis position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities. #J-18808-Ljbffr