Shelter Medicine Veterinary Assistant, Detroit

Michigan Humane Society • Detroit, MI

367d

About The Position

The Shelter Medicine Veterinary Assistant is responsible for assisting the Shelter Medicine Veterinarians with the diagnosis and care of the animals, using various techniques and nursing skills. These skills include administering and monitoring anesthesia and treating out-patient and hospitalized animals. This role will also perform dental procedures, lab tests, and radiography. This role will also provide care and temporary shelter to dogs, cats, small domestic animals, and wildlife, exotic and farm animals, as necessary.

Requirements

• High School diploma. Previous field training and experience. Must certify competency.
• 6-9 months of relevant experience, including at least 6 months in a customer service role.
• Basic computer and software skills; use of phone, fax, and copier.
• Knowledge of a wide variety of animals, including wildlife, exotic, farm, and other small domestic animals.
• Basic animal husbandry and small animal experience, including safe animal handling techniques.

Responsibilities

• Humanely treat and care for all animals entrusted to Michigan Humane.
• Evaluate animals medically and behaviorally; assess overall condition; clip nails and wings, screen for parasites, clean ears; arrange for sterilization when appropriate.
• Educate the public on the proper care and handling of various species. Handle calls from the public and call center seeking advice or help with surrender.
• Administer medications and vaccines; draw blood and perform diagnostic tests; take radiographs (X-rays); perform cytology such as ear and skin tests; examine fecal samples for parasites; perform heartworm tests. Assist with microchip placement.
• Assist veterinarian during surgery; prepare patient; calculate and administer anesthesia; monitor patient vitals before, during, and after surgery; log-controlled substances; clean afterward (instruments, room, and prep area); complete surgical paperwork.
• Provide care for hospitalized patients. Check vitals, monitor fluids, place IV catheters, walk and feed animals, and clean cages, as needed.
• Assist with intakes and setups of wildlife, exotic, farm, and other small domestic animals. May design non-traditional habitats when needed.
• Administer anesthesia to dental patients; perform full-mouth X-rays and exams teeth for disease; clean teeth; assist the veterinarian with teeth extractions; monitor patient vitals before, during, and after the dental procedure(s).
• Perform specialized procedures such as ultrasounds and EKGs. Carry out routine tasks, such as nail trims, ear cleaning, and baths.
• Identify supplies to be ordered; restock treatment, surgical, and clinic areas.
• Assist the Vet with foster care rechecks and preparing animals for release to foster care.
• Maintain up-to-date records & filings, including annual DNR and Fish & Wildlife reports.
• Maintain clean exam rooms; sweep, mop, and disinfect between appointments; follow cleaning protocols to prevent the spread of disease. Launder soiled items.
• Perform euthanasia procedures when needed.
• Able to work independently with limited supervision; good decision-making and attention to detail; ability to follow directions.
• Demonstrate animal handling skills.
• Able to run basic medical tests, perform basic lab work, and administer vaccines as directed.
• Able to handle stress and remain calm in emergency situations.
• Possesses good communication skills, diplomacy, and tact, especially dealing with clients.
• Ability to consistently adhere to prescribed protocols.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Medical, Vision, and Dental Insurance
• 403(b) Retirement Savings Account
• Opportunities for professional development, growth, and continuing education
• A positive and collaborative work environment
• Work-life balance and flexible working hours (compressed work schedule option!)
• Paid Time Off & Holidays
• Human & Pet Bereavement
• Clinic discounts to up to 75% off services for your own pet(s)
• Relaxed dress code
• Wellness program with professional counseling services available to employees
• Animal food discount
• Free or discounted adoption fees to adopt a new friend.
• Sabbatical Policy
• Uniform Allowance
• Paid Parental Leave
• Yearly performance reviews & employee engagement surveys
• Student Loan Relief Eligibility through Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees