Kennel Assistant

Ethos Veterinary Health•Grand Rapids, MI

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The purpose of the Kennel Assistant (KA) is to provide husbandry care for the patients, assistance to all doctors and staff, and maintenance care to the facility and hospital grounds. The KA role is valued as an integral position within the overall hospital team. We are looking for a full time, overnight Kennel Assistant to support our Emergency team at our Grand Rapids location!

Requirements

Basic knowledge of animal husbandry care
Basic working knowledge of commonly used veterinary equipment
Basic working knowledge of veterinary nursing and patient care
Good working knowledge of patient restraint techniques
Basic to good working knowledge of EzyVvet system
Basic computer skills; good communication skills-written and verbal
Ability to make sound decisions; seek instruction and direction as necessary
Ability to receive, process and follow direction and instructions
Able to properly restrain dog and cat patients for veterinary care and procedures
Able to stand, sit, bend, restrain, squat for extended periods of time
Able to lift 40 lbs in a safe manner
Able to type, write and verbally converse
Able to work the posted schedule

Responsibilities

Feed, water and walk all dog and cat patients as requested and directed.
Record or report appetite, urine/feces elimination and any other notable functions or concerns to the doctors, technicians, or assistants.
Clean all animal holding areas including cages and runs as requested or directed.
Ensure the safety of all dog and cat patients by securing all animal holding areas, using safe handling and walking techniques both inside the hospital and outdoors and by using safe and effective restraint techniques.
Restrain and handle all patients in such a manner as to protect the animal and all humans involved from danger and injury. Request backup assistance as necessary.
Demonstrate compassion and gentle care of all hospital patients.
As requested or directed, assist all doctors and staff as necessary with patient restraint, patient transport within and outside the hospital, and with minor procedures such as exams, sample collection, nail trims, anal gland expression, euthanasia, etc.
Assist with restocking various hospital areas including the kennel area, pet food storage, treatment area and exam rooms.
Assists with radiographs as requested. Uses safe restraint techniques and wears all appropriate personal protection equipment.
Provides bathing services to dog and cat patients as directed.
Follows instruction related to individual patient needs including medicated or non-medicate bath, types of shampoos/conditioners.
Ensures that patients are thoroughly washed and rinsed, dried and brushed prior to discharge.
Uses all bathing and grooming equipment in a safe and efficient manner.
Maintains the bathing/grooming area in a neat, clean and organized state.
Provides routine and daily cleaning of the hospital facility including floor care, restroom cleaning, lobby care, etc.
Floors, windows, walls and counter tops are viewed daily and cleaned as necessary and/or directed.
Trash and recycle materials are removed daily and placed in the appropriate disposal receptacles.
Paper goods such as paper towels and toilet paper are restocked as necessary.
All maintenance equipment and supplies are maintained in sound working order and stock is replaced/ordered as necessary.
Repair needs are identified and reported to the floor manager.
The exterior of the hospital including the grounds and parking area are maintained free of debris, trash and feces.
Exterior damage or disrepair is reported to the floor manager.
Continue to learn and develop a strong skill set.
Participate in staff training as requested.
Participate within the overall team in a productive and positive manner.
Comply with all hospital policies, procedures and standards of care.
Participates in a positive manner in all group sizes.
Refrains from participating in gossip.
Supports team members by assisting other areas, is receptive to feedback and suggestions.
Engages in active problem-solving vs. problem-identifying.
Makes suggestions related to client/patient service improvements and hospital efficiency.