Veterinary Technician Assistant

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.

Technical Proficiency

• Basic knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal husbandry
• Basic knowledge of animal anatomy, behavior, and medical terminology
• 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.
• Appropriately prepare, handle, and submit specimens to outside laboratories
• Possess the ability to observe patients and recognize subtle changes in status
• Provides comfort to animals during their treatment
• Gathering basic vital signs, weight and history on our patients and placing notes into the medical record
• Triage and assist with stabilizing patients
• Confident phlebotomy and IV catheter placement
• Properly administer medical treatment including PO, IM, IV, and SQ medications
• Knowledgeable of the basics in CPR and assist during emergencies and/or surgeries
• Assist with ultrasounds, radiographs, and/or advanced imaging procedures
• Provide restraint of patients in a safe, effective, and compassionate manner without risk to patients, self, and others
• Monitoring patient's vital signs while under sedation and/or anesthesia
• Assist with inventory management
• Exceptional and advanced compassionate nursing care

Equipment and Facility Maintenance

• Maintaining cleanliness of facilities and ensure smooth workflow such as cleaning cages, sterilizing equipment, stocking treatment areas, and cleaning examination tables and rooms
• Maintain cleanliness and readiness of equipment
• Troubleshooting and use of equipment such as syringe pumps, IV pumps, and other multiparameter monitors

Communication and Documentation

• Accurate and organized record-keeping
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate effectively with pet owners and team members
• Educate owners on medications, husbandry, and recommend practices for their pets as directed by the veterinarian
• Provide compassionate support and education to pet owners regarding care and treatment options.

Skills & Competencies

• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Sharp attention to detail and the ability to prioritize and multi-task
• Ability to follow instructions properly
• Willingness and availability to stay late or work through breaks, when needed, to assist with emergency or critical patients
• Maintain a positive outlook and follow ECoVets policies including the Employee handbook
• Adhere to your work schedule. Be on the floor ready to work at the start of your shift
• Demonstrate initiative and teamwork in your duties each day.

Physical Stamina

• Ability to meet the physical demands of the job (often Requires lifting 40 to 50 plus lbs)
• Exposure to infectious diseases and potentially aggressive animals
• Ability to withstand prolonged periods of standing, bending, and kneeling
• Manual dexterity for handling animals and delicate procedures

Requirements

• High school diploma; a certificate from a Veterinary Assistant program - optional
• Proven experience as a Veterinary Assistant or similar position working with animals for at least a year
• 24/7 hospital setting (nights, weekends, holidays required)