Senior Veterinary Assistant

Responsibilities

• Care for cats and dogs each day presenting for spay/neuter surgery up to calculated clinic capacity
• Provide a safe and compassionate environment for animals in our care, our staff, and for our clients by using low-stress handling techniques during various procedures
• Maintain vital signs of sedated and anesthetized patients in pre-operative, operative, and post-operative phases
• Take direction regarding medical protocols and animal care from the clinic veterinarian or veterinary technician
• Organize and maintain pre-operative area and operating room for patient anesthesia, surgical preparation and sterilization
• Ensure anesthesia machines, pulse oximeters, scales, and other equipment are functional and report equipment that is not working properly
• Clean, sonicate, pack, and sterilize surgical instruments and endotracheal tubes
• Work with coworkers to clean and disinfect animal areas and facility while utilizing appropriate personal protective equipment
• Absorb and prepare animals for surgery
• Communicate with all clients in a non-judgmental, effective and professional manner
• Greet clients and assist with the intake process, including assisting clients in filling out intake and service documents, flag relevant medical history
• Communicate basic veterinary medical concepts to clients, including, but not limited to vaccine protocols and anesthetic risks
• Explain information provided by the veterinarian about an animal’s condition to clients
• Enter medical information into digital databases
• Represent ASPCA in a professional and courteous manner
• Provide medical information and representation to other ASPCA departments
• Adhere to all protocols put forth by Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• Follow all written and verbally communicated CM Standard Operating Procedures
• Collaborate and foster good communication with ASPCA colleagues
• Participate in veterinary/medical training of CM staff, ASPCA staff and veterinary and technical students by coaching, discussion, and demonstration
• Attend staff meetings and training sessions
• Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Experience using a computer and navigating software applications
• Ability to lift and carry 40-plus pounds repeatedly throughout the day with assistance
• Ability to work standing for 8 or more hours
• Fear Free® Shelter certification is required within 60 days of hire
• Excellent customer service skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to work efficiently and calmly under challenging conditions
• Maintain open mind regarding changes and be willing to learn, implement, and teach new protocols
• Strong animal handling skills (cats, dogs)
• Strong interest in animal welfare and serving underserved communities
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• Minimum 1 year animal handling in a professional setting required, veterinary medical experience preferred
• Language: English