Veterinary Assistant - Uptown Animal Hospital

Lakefield Veterinary Group•Gig Harbor, WA

4d•$21 - $27•Onsite

About The Position

Uptown Animal Hospital is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support veterinarians and veterinary technicians at its general practice and urgent care facility. The role helps ensure the safety and comfort of pets and clients while supporting the delivery of quality veterinary care. The hospital is open seven days a week and provides in-house diagnostics, digital radiology, ultrasonography, an onsite pharmacy, and surgical services. The Veterinary Assistant gathers and documents patient information, prepares rooms and equipment, assists with examinations and procedures, monitors patients, performs specified laboratory and care tasks, and communicates with clients under veterinary guidance. The position requires flexibility in working hours, including evenings and weekends, and involves work in a potentially fast-paced environment with exposure to animals, noise, and sanitation chemicals.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least 2 years of experience as a non-licensed technician in a veterinary practice.
Broad knowledge of animal science.
Basic knowledge of pharmacology.
Proficiency with computer programs including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and industry-related internet sites.
Basic written, verbal, and active listening communication skills with a customer-oriented approach.
Basic mathematical skills for accurate drug and fluid dosage administration.
Analytical, critical-thinking, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
Compassion and empathy for pets and pet owners.
Ability to interact professionally, caringly, and tactfully with a variety of clients and employees.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information discreetly.
Ability to maintain a calm demeanor in a fast-paced and stressful work environment.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
Ability to talk and hear, use a computer frequently, and meet close-vision requirements.
Ability to walk, stand, and sit for extended periods.
Ability to exert up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly to lift, carry, pull, or move objects.

Nice To Haves

Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program.

Responsibilities

Promote the practice’s values of Respect, Learning, Doing the Right Thing, WOW Service, and Fun.
Clean, disinfect, and prepare exam rooms, medical equipment, and surgery areas between appointments.
Gather initial patient information, medical histories, vaccination records, and reasons for visits; document information and keep records updated.
Calm, comfort, and gently restrain pets before, during, and after procedures.
Take notes on examination results and update records as directed by veterinarians.
Provide pet owners with care resources and information under the veterinarian’s guidance.
Monitor and track pets’ physical status and vital signs after surgery, and monitor, record, and report the condition and vital signs of hospitalized and boarded pets.
Assist veterinarians during examinations, diagnosis, procedures, and treatment by completing preparatory procedures.
Obtain and prepare blood, urine, and fecal samples for diagnostic testing; perform laboratory tests and update patient charts unless restricted by the State Veterinary Board.
Administer injections and medications under a veterinarian’s direction.
Clean and disinfect cages, pens, runs, and boarding areas.
Feed, water, bathe, and exercise pets during their visit.
Respond to general client questions in a friendly and informative manner.
Perform and set up procedures that do not require veterinarian or veterinary technician assistance.
Perform basic pet health checks and treat pets under a veterinarian’s direction.
Administer medication, perform routine laboratory tests, fill prescriptions, and educate clients about medication use and side effects under the guidance of a veterinarian or veterinary technician.
Provide professional, efficient, quality care and exceptional client service while maximizing productivity.
Support collaboration and teamwork to deliver quality, compassionate, effective, and efficient pet healthcare.
Comply with practice policies, quality assurance guidelines, and minimum standards of care.
Perform other duties or projects as requested with a positive attitude.