Veterinary Assistant

Job Summary:

Under the direction of doctors, performs procedures such as animal restraint, exam room prep, lab testing, medicating, surgical assisting, patient care, supply maintenance and stocking, equipment maintenance, and client education.  Aside from this the assistant and technician are the client’s link to the doctor and patient care and are responsible for making the client feel comfortable with the situation and procedures, as well as educate the client on what is best for their pet.

A veterinary assistant is one who is trained in-house to assist the doctors and technicians.  A technician, or RVT, has received formal education, has at least an associate’s degree in veterinary technology and is licensed to perform certain duties by the State of New Mexico.

Pay Scale:             $8.00 - $14.00

Minimum Qualifications:

Knowledge:           Basic pet care, basic math and algebra                            

Ability:                   Work quickly and perform multiple tasks simultaneously

Use multiple line telephone and computer competent

Write neatly, communicate clearly and courteously

Understand and carry out oral and written instructions

Work on feet and lift up to 40#

Have basic understanding and ease with animals

May not have severe pet allergy that interferes with duties

Bilingual helpful

Education:             High School Diploma, GED

                                Medical training helpful

                                Technician:   Associate degree in Animal Technology

Experience:            At least one year working around animals.

                Experience at veterinary or other medical setting preferred.

General Duties:

1)       Animal restraint and handling

2)       Recordkeeping – reading and recording patient information

3)       Client interaction – works one on one with client and pet

4)       Performs lab procedures such as tests on blood, urine, and feces

5)       Fill prescriptions and issues directions to clients

6)       Assist with taking x-rays, medical procedures and surgeries

7)       Provide nursing care to hospital patients

8)       Care for boarding animals

9)       Clean and maintain work areas and equipment

10)    Communicate with and assist veterinarians

11)    Answer animal care questions and make best pet care recommendations

12)    Take classes to advance in responsibilities

Requirements:

Follows employee handbook.

Has professional appearance.

Takes courses (on schedule) provided by clinic to further training and knowledge. 

Must show proficency.  Licensed technicians attend CE.

Shows continuous growth in job knowledge and responsibility, makes recommendations for improving clinic operations.