Veterinary Assistant
About The Position
The Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and the veterinary team by providing compassionate medical care to animals in the shelter and surgery programs and helping maintain high standards of treatment. The role includes assisting with examinations, treatments, and surgeries; providing hands-on patient care; administering medications; and supporting recovery and healing. The position is full-time and on-site in Pueblo, Colorado, with a schedule that includes at least one weekend day. Occasional evening, holiday, and additional weekend work may be required based on organizational needs. This active, hands-on role involves extended periods of standing and walking; frequent lifting and moving of animals and equipment weighing 25 pounds or more, and occasionally 40 pounds or more; frequent bending, kneeling, reaching, and crouching; and working around animals, animal allergens, cleaning agents, and varying environmental conditions. Employment is contingent on authorizing a background check conducted by HSPPR and ProScreening. The check includes a criminal investigation, verification of citizenship or immigration status, and a motor vehicle record. The posting states that applications close on 11/10/2026, or until filled.
Requirements
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
- Ability to read, write, communicate effectively, perform basic math, and solve routine problems.
- Passion for animal welfare and the organization's mission.
- Compassionate, patient, and professional approach when working with animals and people.
- Comfort handling animals of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
- Attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records.
- Ability to prioritize tasks and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication skills and ability to work well as part of a team.
Nice To Haves
- Previous animal handling experience.
- Experience in a veterinary clinic, shelter, or animal care environment.
Responsibilities
- Assist veterinarians during examinations and treatments.
- Safely restrain and handle animals during medical procedures.
- Administer medications and treatments as directed.
- Calculate medication dosages accurately.
- Monitor and communicate patient status and medical concerns.
- Assist with surgical preparation, patient recovery, and post-operative care.
- Maintain accurate medical records and enter data into shelter software.
- Clean kennels and provide daily animal care.
- Restock medical and surgical supplies.
- Assist with humane euthanasia procedures when necessary.
- Work collaboratively with shelter staff, volunteers, and other departments to support positive outcomes for animals.
Benefits
- Health insurance.
- 401(k) with employer matching up to 4% of salary.
- Dental and vision plans.
- Supplemental group life insurance.
- Short- and long-term disability insurance.
- Paid time off.
- Holidays.
- Direct deposit.
- Personal pet perks.
- Wellness programs.
- Paid sabbatical after 5 years of employment.
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Education Level
High school or GED
