Veterinary Assistant

Merrifield Animal Hospital•Merrifield, VA

39d•Onsite

About The Position

Merrifield Animal Hospital is seeking a Part-Time Veterinary Assistant who brings compassion, strong technical skills, and a team-first attitude to patient care. The hospital emphasizes a 'better together' culture where wins are shared, challenges are faced collaboratively, and individuality is encouraged. This role involves working alongside veterinarians and the veterinary team to provide high-quality care from patient intake through discharge, utilizing Fear Free and low-stress patient handling principles.

Requirements

Safe and effective patient handling and restraint skills
Knowledge of preventive care and vaccines
Diagnostic skills, including radiographs, phlebotomy, sample collection, and in-house laboratory work
Professional and compassionate communication with clients and teammates
Clear, concise documentation of patient care and client interactions
Strong attention to detail and commitment to high-quality patient care
A collaborative, team-first approach
A willingness to ask for help when you need it and offer help when others do
A positive, supportive attitude grounded in teamwork and mutual respect
A desire to continue learning and strengthening your veterinary skills
The right cattitude

Responsibilities

Triage patients and obtain thorough histories, vitals, and patient assessments
Assist veterinarians during examinations, treatments, and procedures
Provide attentive nursing care and patient monitoring, including TPRs, pain scoring, wound care, and other supportive care
Prepare and administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed
Perform venipuncture, catheter placement, fluid therapy, and sample collection
Obtain high-quality radiographs while maintaining imaging standards
Run in-house laboratory testing, including CBC/chemistry, urinalysis, cytology, fecals, and other diagnostics
Support surgical and dental procedures, including preparation, monitoring, recovery, and instrument care
Monitor anesthesia and patient vitals during procedures and maintain accurate records
Practice Fear Free and low-stress handling techniques to help keep patients safe and comfortable
Educate clients about patient care, medications, discharge instructions, and preventive care with compassion and clarity
Maintain accurate, concise, and up-to-date medical records and patient charts
Keep treatment and exam areas clean, stocked, and organized while following infection-control protocols
Collaborate with teammates to maintain an efficient workflow and positive hospital culture
Participate in ongoing training and professional growth opportunities