Veterinary Assistant - Urgent Care
About The Position
Veterinary Assistants at VCA Urgent Care Mar Vista are essential members of the hospital team who support our veterinarians and care team in delivering compassionate, efficient, and high-quality medical care. They serve as the primary medical support staff and help maintain smooth patient flow whether patients arrive as walk-ins or via our Virtual Waiting Room (VWR) system. Veterinary Assistants aid in clinical procedures, patient monitoring, client communication, and hospital upkeep. This role requires adaptability, teamwork, and strong communication in a fast-paced urgent care setting.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum 18 years of age.
- Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
- Strong multitasking and communication skills.
- Comfortable in a fast-paced urgent care environment.
Nice To Haves
- Veterinary Assistant certification or prior experience preferred.
Responsibilities
- At the beginning of each shift, review the Virtual Waiting Room (VWR) to identify clients on the waitlist.
- Call clients in the VWR to verify contact information, retrieve visit details, and confirm readiness to arrive.
- Assist the Care Concierge in maintaining accurate records in the VWR.
- Upon check-in, retrieve current and prior medical history for the attending veterinarian.
- Communicate with clients professionally and empathetically, keeping them informed of wait times if needed.
- Safely handle and restrain patients for exams and treatments.
- Collect samples and prepare them for testing.
- Assist veterinarians and technicians with treatments, radiology, and surgery prep.
- Monitor and record hospitalized or recovering patients.
- Perform nail trims, weight checks, suture removals, and prepare medications under doctor supervision.
- Support veterinarians by scribing during patient exams.
- Enter treatment notes and updates into the hospital system.
- Record patient vitals and treatment plans.
- Document all client communication in the live “Communication Log” to support care continuity and regulatory requirements.
- Maintain clean and organized exam rooms and treatment areas.
- Assist with sterilization and autoclaving of instruments.
- Ensure adequate stock of supplies.
- Report any facility or equipment issues to management.
- Collaborate with Care Concierge, Assistants, Leads, and Veterinarians to ensure smooth flow.
- Participate in team huddles/meetings to align on priorities.
- Maintain a positive and proactive attitude.
- Uphold VCA’s standards of communication and patient care.
Benefits
- We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
