A Veterinary Technician Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in providing care to animals, performing various tasks such as patient care, assisting in medical procedures, and maintaining clinic operations. They play a vital role in animal healthcare, providing essential support to veterinarians, and ensuring the well-being of animals in their care. Veterinary assistants must be able to successfully divide their time between assisting veterinary technicians, veterinary receptionists, and veterinarians.
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Basic knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry
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Basic knowledge of animal anatomy, behavior, and medical terminology
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Perform routine in house blood work to include blood gas, Procyte, Catalyst, blood type/cross match, blood smear, PCV/TS, lactometer, glucometer, PT/PTT, VCM, etc.
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Appropriately prepare, handle, and submit specimens to outside laboratories
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Possess the ability to observe patients and recognize subtle changes in status
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Provides comfort to animals during their treatment
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Gathering basic vital signs, weight and history on our patients and placing notes into the medical record
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Triage and assist with stabilizing patients
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Confident phlebotomy and IV catheter placement
- Properly administer medical treatment including PO, IM, IV, and SQ medications
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Knowledgeable of the basics in CPR and assist during emergencies and/or surgeries
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Assist with ultrasounds, radiographs, and/or advanced imaging procedures
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Provide restraint of patients in a safe, effective, and compassionate manner without risk to patients, self, and others
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Monitoring patient's vital signs while under sedation and/or anesthesia
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Assist with inventory management
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Exceptional and advanced compassionate nursing care
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Maintaining cleanliness of facilities and ensure smooth workflow such as cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, stocking treatment areas, and cleaning examination tables and rooms
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Maintain cleanliness and readiness of equipment
- Troubleshooting and use of equipment such as syringe pumps, IV pumps, and other multiparameter monitors
Communication and Documentation
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Accurate and organized record-keeping
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Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with pet owners and team members
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Educate owners on medications, husbandry, and recommend practices for their pets as directed by the veterinarian
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Provide compassionate support and education to pet owners regarding care and treatment options.
Skills & Competencies
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Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
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Sharp attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multi-task
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Ability to follow instructions properly
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Willingness and availability to stay late or work through breaks, when needed, to assist with emergency or critical patients
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Maintain a positive outlook and follow ECoVets policies including the Employee handbook
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Adhere to your work schedule. Be on the floor ready to work at the start of your shift
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Demonstrate initiative and teamwork in your duties each day.
Physical Stamina
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Ability to meet the physical demands of the job (often Requires lifting 40 to 50 plus lbs)
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Exposure to infectious diseases and potentially aggressive animals
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Ability to withstand prolonged periods of standing, bending, and kneeling
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Manual dexterity for handling animals and delicate procedures
Requirements
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High school diploma; a certificate from a Veterinary Assistant program - optional
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Proven experience as a Veterinary Assistant or similar position working with animals for at least a year
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24/7 hospital setting (nights, weekends, holidays required)
