Veterinary Assistant

Overview:
We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Veterinary Assistant to join our team. The Veterinary Assistant will work closely with our veterinary staff to provide essential care for shelter animals, assisting with medical procedures, treatments, and daily care routines. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about animal welfare and veterinary medicine.
Responsibilities:
Animal Care
Assist with the daily care and handling of shelter animals, including feeding, grooming, and exercise.
Ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of animal housing areas, including cages, kennels, and exam rooms.
Monitor animal behavior and health, reporting any changes or concerns to veterinary staff.
Provide basic medical care under the supervision of veterinarians, including administering medications and treatments.
Veterinary Support
Assist veterinarians during examinations, surgeries, and medical procedures as needed.
Prepare surgical packs, sterilize equipment, and maintain surgical and medical supplies.
Handle and restrain animals during medical procedures, ensuring their safety and comfort.
Assist with diagnostic procedures, such as radiography and laboratory tests, as directed by veterinary staff.
Recordkeeping and Documentation
Maintain accurate medical records for all shelter animals, documenting medical histories, treatments, and observations.
Update animal records in the shelter management database and ensure records are kept confidential and secure.
Assist with inventory management, including ordering and stocking medical supplies and medications.
Clinical & Veterinary Specialties
Strong clinical skills and knowledge across a range of veterinary specialties, including surgery, anesthesia, dentistry, and preventive care.
Health Management Protocols
Implement and oversee health management protocols for all animals in the shelter, including vaccination schedules, parasite control, and disease prevention measures.
Tasks Follow-Up
Coordinating with medical staff or subordinates to ensure the completion of medical tasks daily.
Quality Control
Monitoring, maintaining, and ensuring quality control of drugs used within the shelter and in the field.
Environment Enhancement
Maintaining a clean and safe environment, including proper sterilization of kennels, wards, and equipment and adherence to infection control protocols.
Machine Operations & Maintenance
Performing routine operations and maintenance on medical machinery, equipment, and devices to meet standards.
Performing other related duties as required to support the operation of the animal shelter and the welfare of its residents.
Qualifications:
Animal Husbandry Diploma Program (AHDP) in veterinary science, veterinary assistant certification, or relevant coursework preferred.
Required Background, Experience and Skills:
Total 5+ years of experience practicing veterinary medicine, preferably in a clinic, hospital shelter or animal welfare organization.
Demonstrated proficiency with animal handling and restraint techniques, with a minimum of 3 years of hands-on experience in a veterinary setting.
Previous experience working with animals in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or similar setting is desirable.
Knowledge of basic veterinary medical terminology and anatomy.
Understanding of sterilization protocols and procedures for maintaining a clean and safe surgical environment.
Ability to handle emergency situations calmly and efficiently, including assisting with triage and providing first aid to injured animals.
Ensure compliance with relevant regulations (AWBI, state and municipal animal health laws), standards of care, and veterinary medical ethics in all aspects of shelter operations and animal care.
Know the names and general uses of surgical instruments and equipment.
Perform laboratory procedures such as blood draws, urinalysis, and fecal exams
Able to monitor anesthesia, with a clear idea of abnormal conditions
Must have good vision, including peripheral vision, fine detail, distance, depth perception, and ability to focus
Proficiency in managing animals, encompassing the handling of aggressive or feral ones, with safety, correctness, and compassion.
Previous experience working in an animal shelter or rescue organization is desirable but not required.
Knowledge of basic animal care principles, including nutrition, hygiene, and behavior.
Proficiency in computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
The role of a Veterinary Assistant is integral to the holistic care and well-being of the animals under our guardianship. Working alongside the Veterinarian, this position demands not only a strong foundation in animal care practices but also a commitment to advocacy and community engagement. The Veterinary Assistant contributes significantly to our mission of providing compassionate support to animals in need, ultimately fostering a more humane and empathetic society.

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