Veterinary Assistant

Lakefield Veterinary Group•Duluth, MN

11d

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant supports and assists the Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians, ensuring the safety of pets and clients, and the continuity of quality veterinary care. They work to keep pets safe and comfortable during their visit.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED required
Broad knowledge of animal science
Basic knowledge of pharmacology
Proficiency with a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Outlook, Word and industry internet sites
Basic written, verbal, and active listening communication skills with a customer-oriented approach
Basic mathematical skills to ensure the administration of accurate drug and fluid doses
Basic analytical, critical thinking, judgement, and problem-solving skills
Compassion and empathy for both pets and pet owners
Interact with a variety of clients and employees in a professional, caring, compassionate, and tactful manner
Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
Strong organizational and time management skills, including managing multiple priorities
Handle and maintain sensitive and confidential information with discretion
Maintain a calm demeanor in a work environment that fluctuates from orderly to fast paced and stressful
This position requires exerting up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds frequently, and/or 10 pounds constantly in order to lift, carry, pull or move objects
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

Nice To Haves

Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program preferred
One year of experience in a pet care setting preferred

Responsibilities

Foster a culture built on our values: Respect, Learning, Do the Right Thing, WOW Service, and Fun
Clean, disinfect, and prepare exam rooms, medical equipment, and surgery between each appointment
Obtain initial patient information, medical histories, vaccination records, and the reason for the pet’s visit. Document patient information, and update records
Calm, soothe, comfort, and restrain pets before, during, and after procedures
Take note on examination results and updates records as directed by veterinarians
Provide the owners education, resources and information on how best to care for pets in general, at the Veterinarian’s direction, for specific conditions, and after various procedures
Monitor and track pet’s physical status and vital signs following surgery
Monitor, record, and report the physical condition and vital signs of the hospitalized and boarded pets
Clean and disinfect cages, pens, runs, and boarding areas
Feed, water, bathe, and exercise pets during their visit
Respond to general questions from clients
Perform and set up procedures that do not require Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician assistance
Examine pets, performing basic health checks, looking for signs of disease, illness, or injury, and treat them under the direction of the Veterinarian
May administer medication, perform routine laboratory tests, fill prescriptions, and educate client on use and side effects of medication under the direction of a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician
Provide professional, efficient, quality care and exceptional service to clients while maintaining maximum productivity
Support a practice environment that promotes collaboration and teamwork and ensures the delivery of quality, compassionate, effective, and efficient health care to pets
Comply with all practice policies, quality assurance guidelines, and minimum standards of care
Perform other duties as requested