Veterinary Assistant

Lakefield Veterinary Group•Apple Valley, MN

10d•$18 - $22

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant supports Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians, helping ensure pet and client safety and continuity of quality veterinary care. The role helps keep pets safe and comfortable throughout their visits and supports compassionate, effective, and efficient care in a collaborative practice environment.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Broad knowledge of animal science.
Basic knowledge of pharmacology.
Proficiency with computer programs including Microsoft Outlook, Word, and industry internet sites.
Basic written, verbal, and active-listening communication skills and a customer-oriented approach.
Basic mathematical skills for accurately calculating drug and fluid doses.
Basic analytical, critical-thinking, judgment, and problem-solving skills.
Compassion and empathy for pets and pet owners.
Ability to interact professionally, caringly, compassionately, and tactfully with a variety of clients and employees.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
Strong organizational and time-management skills, including managing multiple priorities.
Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion.
Ability to maintain a calm demeanor in work conditions that range from orderly to fast-paced and stressful.
Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
Ability to talk and hear regularly; use a computer frequently for long periods; and perform close-vision tasks.
Ability to walk, stand, and sit for long 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.
One year of experience in a pet care setting.

Responsibilities

Promote a culture based on Respect, Learning, Do the Right Thing, WOW Service, and Fun.
Clean, disinfect, and prepare exam rooms, medical equipment, and surgery areas between appointments.
Collect initial patient information, medical histories, vaccination records, and reasons for visits; document information and update records.
Calm, soothe, comfort, and restrain pets before, during, and after procedures.
Record examination results and update records as directed by veterinarians.
Educate pet owners and provide resources on general care, specific conditions, and post-procedure care as directed by the Veterinarian.
Monitor and track pets’ physical status and vital signs following surgery.
Monitor, record, and report the physical condition and vital signs of hospitalized and boarded pets.
Clean and disinfect cages, pens, runs, and boarding areas.
Feed, water, bathe, and exercise pets during their visits.
Respond to general client questions.
Perform and set up procedures that do not require Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician assistance.
Examine pets, perform basic health checks for signs of disease, illness, or injury, and provide treatment under the Veterinarian’s direction.
May administer medication, perform routine laboratory tests, fill prescriptions, and educate clients about medication use and side effects under the direction of a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician.
Provide professional, efficient, high-quality care and exceptional client service while maintaining productivity.
Support a collaborative team environment that promotes quality, compassionate, effective, and efficient pet health care.
Comply with practice policies, quality assurance guidelines, and minimum standards of care.
Perform other duties as requested.