Companion Animal Alliance of Baton Rouge
Title: Veterinary Technician
Division: Operations; Shelter Medicine
Reports To: Shelter Clinic Manager, Director of Operations, Staff Veterinarian
Job Duties include but are not limited to:
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Provides“day one” orientation when other senior technicians are absent and offers continued instruction to LSU Veterinary Students matriculating through their Animal Control Rotation
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Contributes to the health care of animals and the analysis of animal disease by assisting with surgery, appointments, diagnostics, intake, and necropsy
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Assists the veterinarians and veterinary students with pre-surgical and intake examination, treatments, diagnostics, and documentation as laid out in SOPs
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Scans animals for microchip and examine for any other signs of ownership; if signs of ownership are found, document findings and change stage appropriately to notify client services department
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Route animals appropriately into animal housing based on assigned stage
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Assists the veterinarians and veterinary students with surgical induction and prep of animals and aids in anesthetic monitoring throughout surgery
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Assists with grant-specific requirements by taking pictures of students on rotation, ensuring that students record performed surgeries, and ensuring students complete the end-of-rotation evaluation
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Autoclaves and maintains surgical packs
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Administers treatments to animals being made available for adoption
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Contributes to the management of medical inventory
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Contributes to the administration of scheduled medications and treatments as directed by the veterinarian
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Keeps the surgery unit rooms clean, organized and disinfected
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Inputs medicals as instructed by a veterinarian
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Schedules surgeries and medical appointments
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Perform and interpret results of diagnostic tests (fecals, heartworm tests, FeLV/ FIV tests)
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Performs (once certified) and/or assists in humane euthanasia
Knowledge, skills and abilities needed to perform the essential functions of this position:
- Supports and follows the mission and values of Companion Animal Alliance.
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Genuine concern for the care, welfare, and humane treatment of animals.
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Working knowledge of animal breeds, basic anatomy, common diseases, medical conditions, and animal behavior.
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Ability to safely handle and restrain animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
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Ability to recognize abnormal physical or behavioral findings and communicate concerns promptly.
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Ability to follow detailed written and verbal instructions, protocols, and SOPs.
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Ability to accurately enter and maintain detailed information in paper and computerized records.
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Working knowledge of or ability to learn PetPoint and other CAA systems.
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Ability to work effectively with veterinarians, veterinary students, technicians, all CAA staff, volunteers, interns, and members of the public.
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Ability to remain calm, patient, courteous, and professional in a fast-paced and stressful environment.
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Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
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Ability to prioritize tasks and respond appropriately when multiple animals or medical needs require attention.
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Ability to work independently while recognizing when assistance or escalation is necessary.
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Ability to adapt to changes in programs, procedures, staffing, and daily shelter needs.
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Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
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Ability to work as part of a team and maintain positive working relationships throughout CAA.
Required Professional Licensing or Certifications:
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High School Diploma or GED.
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Valid Louisiana State Driver’s License.
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Previous animal shelter, veterinary, animal control, kennel, or animal care experience preferred.
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Veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, animal science, or related education/experience preferred.
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Certified Animal Euthanasia Technician through the LBVM or be willing to become certified.
Physical Demands:
The work is performed primarily in animal housing areas, the shelter clinic, intake areas, and other shelter surroundings.
This position requires the ability to:
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Walk and stand for extended periods.
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Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
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Safely handle and restrain animals of various sizes.
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Bend, stoop, kneel, reach, squat, and climb stairs.
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Push and pull equipment, kennels, carts, and other supplies.
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Repeatedly grasp, hold, and manipulate equipment and objects.
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Work around animal hair, dander, bodily fluids, cleaning chemicals, noise, and odors.
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Wear appropriate PPE as required.
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Work in environments where temperatures and conditions may vary.
