Job Description
ANTI-CRUELTY JOB DESCRIPTION JOB TITLE: Veterinary Assistant II
DEPARTMENT: Clinic
REPORTS TO: Clinic Manager
STATUS: Non-Exempt
POSITION OVERVIEW We are seeking a skilled and compassionate Veterinary Assistant with 3 years experience, preferably in an animal shelter setting. This position is heavily focused on supporting our high-volume spay/neuter (HQHVSN) program, with an emphasis on delivering the highest standards of anesthesia and surgical care. In addition, this role offers the opportunity to provide well-rounded medical support as a shelter and outpatient assistant-from assisting with preventive care and wellness appointments to assisting with treatment of medical cases for shelter animals awaiting adoption.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS - Uphold the PETS Work Culture Agreement through Praise, Engagement, Trust and Support.
- Communicate effectively with clients, vets and team members
- Safely and compassionately handle and restrain animals during examinations, treatments, and procedures.
- Deliver hands-on medical care to animals, including administering vaccines, medications, and basic care (nail trims, ear cleanings, gland expression etc.)
- Perform venipuncture, place catheters, and administer subcutaneous, intramuscular, and intravenous injections; conduct blood draws with precision.
- Prepare and capture diagnostic radiographs to aid in evaluating medical conditions.
- Perform anesthesia induction and intubation, monitor animals during surgical procedures, and oversee post-surgical recovery to ensure optimal outcomes.
- Collect and analyze diagnostic samples including use of IDEXX in-house analyzers, skin scrapes, in-house antigen tests, parvovirus testing, fecal flotation, and cytology.
- Perform physical examinations on shelter animals and accurately record findings.
- Perform dental prophylaxis and take full mouth digital dental radiographs on dogs and cats.
- Obtain and maintain licensure as a Certified Euthanasia Technician.
- Assist in training newer employees.
- Other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS - Comprehensive knowledge of animal care, veterinary medical procedures, and the diagnosis and management of common shelter-related diseases.
- Proficiency in performing diagnostic tests and assisting in surgical procedures.
- Compassionate and empathetic approach to animal care, including handling shelter animals that may be fearful, stressed, or exhibit behavioral challenges.
- Strong multitasking skills with the ability to adapt quickly to changes in protocols, priorities, and work environments.
- Demonstrated ability to remain calm, professional, and effective in potentially stressful or emotional situations.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE - High school diploma or GED required
- 3 + years of previous experience as a veterinary assistant in a shelter setting
Note: a comparable combination of education, experience or training that would provide a level of knowledge, skills, and ability may qualify individuals.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS - Ability to work around companion animals.
- Ability to be comfortable working with cats, dogs, small animals, reptiles, fish and wildlife.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and meet the physical demands of the role, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 40 pounds.
- Due to nature of shelter work, may be exposed to deceased, fractious, or aggressive animals; hostile or irate persons; zoonotic or other diseases; unpleasant noises, odors, or sights; and extreme temperatures.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS Available to work an extended schedule, including weekends, early mornings, evenings and holidays according to demands of the role and tasks.
The job description is a guide to the essential functions of the job, not an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, qualifications, physical demands, and work environment conditions. Job descriptions are reviewed and revised to meet the changing needs of the organization at the sole discretion of management.
Anti-Cruelty is an equal opportunity employer.
Job Tags
Afternoon shift, Early shift,