Veterinary Assistant - Spelts & Masters Veterinary Clinic

About the role

The Veterinary Assistant assists the veterinarians and technicians with patient care and treatment, monitors hospitalized pets, maintains inventory, prepares prescriptions, performs routine in-house laboratory work, educates clients regarding veterinary care and procedures, and assists with surgical procedures.

Essential Responsibilities

- Assist veterinarians in the practice of veterinary medicine and surgery and other tasks as needed. - Assist veterinarians in outpatient exams by taking histories, vital signs, and weights, as well as providing client education. - Prepare patients for surgery and monitor vital signs of the patient during surgery. - Obtain blood, stool, and other samples; perform in-hospital laboratory testing and prepare specimens for outside laboratories. - Take, develop, and maintain radiographs following proper safety procedures. - Provide basic animal handling and restrain animals during exams. - Administer and monitor medications, anesthesia, vaccines, and treatments at the discretion of the veterinarian. - Clean and straighten exam rooms, treatment, and lab areas; restock exam rooms with supplies. Assist other team members to keep the public areas of the practice clean; clean and maintain all medical equipment. - Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients; exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients. - Communicate with veterinarians and practice team members including client discussions, patient plans, client concerns, etc. - Any other duties as assigned.

Requirements/Qualifications

- Ability to work on weekends as required - Previous veterinary experience preferred - Ability to lift patients and carry equipment up to 25 pounds; ability to lift patients or carry equipment over 25 pounds with assistance - Practice OSHA safety techniques including proper PPE - Basic math and the ability to calculate medication dosages - Basic computer skills, familiarity with MS office applications, etc. - Strong communication skills to ensure patient safety