Veterinary Assistant - Snow Drive Clinic - Full Time

Greater Birmingham Humane Society Inc•Birmingham, AL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Greater Birmingham Humane Society (GBHS) is seeking a full-time Veterinary Assistant to join their team at the Snow Drive Clinic. GBHS is a progressive animal welfare shelter dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming homeless, abused, neglected, and abandoned animals. They are committed to an open admissions policy, animal rehabilitation, and a low euthanasia rate, saving and rehoming thousands of animals annually. The Veterinary Assistant reports to the Clinic Manager and is a key member of the clinic team, interacting with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, other assistants, externs, adoption and animal care staff, volunteers, the public, and potential adopters.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED equivalent.
Minimum 1 year experience working as a vet assistant in a veterinary/animal clinic environment.
Minimum 1 year experience in animal handling, animal behavior, and animal welfare in a shelter environment.
Ability to perform physical work involving standing for long periods, carrying animal crates, bending, scrubbing, mopping, walking quickly, reaching, squatting all in a timely manner and with ease.
Must be able to lift 50 pounds and lift up to 75 pounds with reasonable accommodation.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
A positive attitude and ability to get along with others.

Nice To Haves

A passion for the mission of GBHS and a sense of humor are required.
Currently a Certified Euthanasia Technician (CET) or obtain CET within one year of employment.
General knowledge of pharmaceutical medications.
General knowledge of veterinary medical terminology.

Responsibilities

Humanely handle and kennel all animals, ensuring proper identification.
Provide care for animals by cleaning cages/kennels thoroughly and sanitarily to prevent disease spread.
Feed animals according to dietary requirements and posted procedures.
Assist with maintaining laundry requirements for respective areas.
Ensure all animal articles, bedding, dishes, and toys are washed and disinfected daily.
Assist with daily observations of medical and behavioral issues, reporting findings to supervisors and medical staff.
Maintain accurate, timely, and complete records.
Check and maintain supplies and equipment, communicating needs and maintenance issues to the supervisor.
Stock needed supplies in respective areas.
Handle, restrain, and triage all animals entering the shelter.
Assist in the medication and medical treatment of animals as prescribed by the veterinarian.
Assist in preparing animals for surgery and routinely inspect and clean incisions when necessary.
Oversee preparation of animals for adoption regarding health exams and inoculations.
Assist in the maintaining and medical treatment of illness throughout the shelter.
Consistently strive to stay informed about the field, animal welfare issues, techniques, procedures, and equipment.
Maintain a high level of communication with all GBHS staff, Volunteers, and Fosters.
Work collaboratively with staff to determine if animals are appropriate for adoption.
Assist in screening animals for adoption when requested.
Greet, direct, and provide information to visitors, answering questions from the general public.
May work at off-site adoption events when requested.
Represent GBHS in a professional manner in all situations.
Perform other duties as assigned.