Veterinary Services Assistant

Nebraska Humane•Omaha, NE

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Veterinary Services Assistant provides vital support for veterinary medical staff within the Animal Medical Department. The Veterinary Services Assistant enhances the lives of animals at the Nebraska Humane Society (NHS) by preparing animals for adoption, alleviating animals' suffering through administration of medications, and providing for a clean, safe work environment.

Requirements

Minimum: High school diploma or GED
Must adhere to applicable state and federal laws governing the practice of veterinary medicine
Display affection and compassion for animals and concern for their welfare
Must adhere to highest ethical standards; possess trustworthiness, exercise maturity and sound independent judgment while maintaining a professional manner and personal appearance
Ability to clearly communicate verbally and in writing
Must have valid driver’s license with acceptable driving record and be able to provide proof of vehicle insurance
Be comfortable and skilled working with a culturally diverse staff and community
Must be considerate, respectful and display a helpful demeanor to all employees, volunteers and customers
Must be able to work cordially, safely and efficiently in face-paced, stressful conditions
Must possess the ability to cope with loss of animal life from illness, injury and euthanasia
Must exhibit the organization core values of compassion for all animals, respect and dignity for all, strive for excellence and teamwork
Ability to safely and humanely handle animals
Ability to respectfully give and receive feedback
Ability to work independently and part of a team
Ability to work in close proximity of others

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a veterinary or medical clinic or shelter
Familiarity with Microsoft operating systems and computer literate in Microsoft Office

Responsibilities

Perform accurate, high quality and high volume data entry of animal medical records, including veterinary examination findings, surgical records, and treatments and procedures. Review medical entries for fidelity of data and completeness of care.
Perform medication rounds for shelter animals, including administering prescribed pain medications, antibiotics, antiparasitics, and vaccines. Relieve animal suffering and comfort the sick. Provide supplemental feeding to puppies and kittens too young for adoption. Assist NHS veterinarians in disease surveillance.
Prepare surgical instrument packs for veterinary use by cleaning surgical instruments and drapes, wrapping surgical packs, sterilizing surgical packs, and training volunteers. Assist Veterinary Manager in overseeing surgical instrument inventory and quality.
Maintain clean treatment, housing, and examination areas through cleaning, disinfection, and organization of animal housing and workspaces.
Assist veterinary staff in the surgical preparation of animals.
Collect specimens and assist in performing diagnostics as prescribed by NHS veterinarians and allowed by Nebraska regulations.
Provide enrichment and stress reduction for animals through humane handling.
Perform medical rounds with NHS veterinarians, ensuring prompt and accurate medical record updates and assisting in the examination of shelter animals.
Recover anesthesia patients with the assistance of veterinary technicians and trained volunteers.
Assist in training new staff members, department volunteers, veterinary students, and interns.
Collaborate with personnel from other NHS departments.
Act as a resource for adopters answering pre and post adoption medical questions.
Periodically review, provide input, and adhere to Animal Medical Department and shelter protocols.
Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the Operations Manager or veterinarian.