Veterinary Assistant

WellHaven Pet Health•Phoenix, AZ

13d•Onsite

About The Position

The Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians in promoting pet well-being, educating clients, and maintaining high standards of veterinary care. The role contributes to efficient hospital operations and provides professional, compassionate service to clients and patients. It is performed onsite at a hospital or approved offsite event location; remote work is not available. The hospital environment may involve limited space, pet-waste odors, and noise such as barking. Schedules may include shifts of 10 or more hours, Saturdays, evenings, and holidays. The position involves physical activity and potential exposure to animals that may bite or scratch, biological hazards, anesthesia medications, radiation near X-ray equipment, and prescription medications, including controlled substances. The stated salary range is $17–$22.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 6 months of experience in the veterinary industry.
Ability to handle dogs, cats, and exotic animals.
Knowledge or experience in basic animal care, including feeding, bathing, grooming, and monitoring for signs of distress or illness.
Knowledge or experience with common medical procedures, including administering medications, wound care, and assisting with diagnostic tests.
Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.
Ability to multitask, prioritize, and remain action-oriented in a fast-paced work environment while staying calm and resilient.
Ability to take initiative, maintain accuracy despite interruptions, and demonstrate accountability.
Ability to learn computer software systems such as EMR and scheduling tools.
Strong customer service, communication, organization, empathy, compassion, and approachability, including the ability to manage a variety of emotional situations.
Good hand-eye coordination, arm-hand-finger dexterity, ability to reach and grasp, and visual acuity for keyboard use, equipment operation, and reading information.
Required vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
Ability to lift 50 or more pounds.
Ability to stand, walk, stoop, kneel, crouch, and climb.
Ability to work in an environment that may include exposure to animals that bite or scratch, biological hazards, anesthesia medications, radiation near an X-ray machine, and prescription medications, including controlled substances.

Nice To Haves

Completion of an NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience demonstrating the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Ability or interest in developing additional veterinary technical skills, including proficiency in anesthesia, surgical assistance, and dentistry.

Responsibilities

Apply technical skills in surgery, dentistry, laboratory procedures, venipuncture, and proper restraint while following protocols for sterile and safe environments.
Contribute to the day-to-day efficiency and smooth operation of the hospital.
Communicate effectively with team members and clients.
Maintain thorough and accurate medical charts in accordance with hospital quality control standards.
Educate clients about Wellness Plans and provide appropriate guidance on pet care and overall health.
Perform selected reception duties, including answering calls, scheduling appointments, and facilitating patient intake and discharge.
Obtain pertinent medical history and patient information.
Help manage hospital supplies by tracking inventory and restocking as needed.
Complete assigned hospital duties before the end of each shift.
Support the overall success and performance of the hospital.
Provide professional, efficient, and exceptional customer service, adapting to clients’ needs and resolving complaints as appropriate.
Follow OSHA standards and company policies.
Perform other duties as assigned.