Vet Assistant

Greater Palm Springs Animal Allies•Palm Springs, CA

3d•Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for ensuring the health of each animal at the shelter, maintaining records on each animal, and striving to ensure that each animal receives appropriate care. Vet Assistants will administer vaccinations, parasite prevention and treatment, as well as assist veterinarian(s) with on-site surgeries when appropriate. The role requires maintaining a sanitary environment in surgery and clinic areas, a positive and respectful attitude, and the ability to attend meetings when requested. The Vet Assistant must operate within compliance with state, federal, local, AVMA laws and guidelines and adhere to the organization’s policies and procedures.

Requirements

High School Graduate or G.E.D.
Minimum 6-months of animal care work or volunteer experience at a vet office, kennel or shelter
Achievement of Level 1 Competency within six months of hire date.
Well-organized and detail-oriented
Proficient computer data entry skills
Good interpersonal skills
Able to effectively communicate with staff, volunteers, and a diverse public population
Able to enthusiastically work in a fast-paced work environment, while problem solving and multitasking
Must be flexible to work additional hours when workload requires
A watch with a second hand is required

Nice To Haves

AVA graduate preferred
Knowledge of animal behavior a plus
A Stethoscope could be required

Responsibilities

Ensure the safety and health of animals within the facility.
Observe and evaluate animals for signs of illness, injuries and parasites.
Determine when an animal needs immediate veterinary care and notify the appropriate personnel.
Prepare and administer medications and vaccinations according to instructions.
Monitor inventory levels and maintain medical supply and drug inventory.
Assist veterinarians in on-site procedures, including surgery, monitoring anesthesia, autoclaving surgical packs, and monitoring animals during recovery.
Run and interpret diagnostic tests.
Collect and process fecal samples, perform skin scrapings, and interpret results using a microscope.
Perform basic bandaging and wound care for animals.
Care for, clean, and feed animals in assigned medical quarantine areas.
Enter medical information into the computer system.
Maintain clinical logs and records.
Work with adoption staff and the public to perform final medical checks for adopted animals.
Maintain a sanitary environment in surgery and clinic areas.
Maintain a positive and respectful attitude.
Attend meetings when requested.
Operate within compliance with state, federal, local, AVMA laws and guidelines.
Adhere to the organization’s policies and procedures.
Work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings.
Other duties as assigned.