Veterinary Assistant

LYNCHBURG HUMANE SOCIETY•Lynchburg, VA

4d•$14 - $19

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant supports the veterinary team in high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter services, community veterinary practice, and medical care for shelter animals. Working alongside veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians, the assistant provides hands-on patient care, supports surgical procedures, prepares patients and equipment, and helps maintain efficient daily operations at the Regional Veterinary Center. The role contributes to making veterinary care accessible to pets and families while meeting the medical needs of shelter animals. The position is suited to someone comfortable in a fast-paced, collaborative veterinary environment who is passionate about improving animals’ lives. Duties include surgical and clinical support, shelter-animal care, maintaining clean and stocked work areas, following safety and infection-control protocols, and performing other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Previous experience in a veterinary hospital, animal shelter, or similar animal-care setting is preferred.
Ability to work comfortably with dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow medical instructions and protocols.
Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
Compassion for animals and commitment to providing high-quality veterinary care.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to safely handle and restrain animals of varying sizes.
Ability to work around animal fur, odors, cleaning products, and medical supplies.
Ability to perform hands-on patient care and surgical-support duties.

Nice To Haves

Experience assisting with surgical procedures or veterinary treatments.
Knowledge of animal handling, restraint, basic medical terminology, and veterinary practices.

Responsibilities

Assist veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter surgeries.
Prepare surgical suites, equipment, instruments, and supplies.
Prepare surgical patients by weighing, handling, positioning, and completing surgical preparation.
Monitor patients before, during, and after surgery as directed by the veterinary team.
Assist with patient recovery and post-operative care.
Maintain sanitation, sterilization, and organization of surgical equipment and spaces.
Assist veterinarians with wellness appointments, sick-pet visits, diagnostics, and other medical procedures.
Obtain patient histories and vital signs, collect samples, and assist with diagnostic testing.
Prepare exam rooms and patients for appointments and procedures.
Handle and restrain patients during examinations and treatments.
Assist with client communication, discharge instructions, and follow-up care as needed.
Help maintain an organized, clean, and efficient clinical environment.
Assist with shelter animals’ daily medical needs, including examinations, treatments, vaccinations, and medications.
Monitor shelter animals for signs of illness, injury, or changes in condition and communicate concerns to the veterinary team.
Assist with intake examinations, medical procedures, and ongoing treatment plans.
Maintain accurate medical records and treatment documentation.
Collaborate with shelter staff to ensure animals receive timely medical attention.
Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked medical and surgical areas.
Follow established safety, sanitation, and infection-control protocols.
Handle animals safely and humanely while minimizing stress whenever possible.
Work collaboratively with veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, and other team members.
Adapt to changing priorities in a busy, multi-service veterinary environment.
Perform other duties as assigned.