Job Description

Job Summary

We are a one doctor, small mammal practice in the heart of Pacifica looking for an experienced, dynamic addition to our team. The Veterinary Assistant aids the doctor to the fullest possible extent, to help improve the quality of care given to the patients, and to aid the doctors in achieving greater efficiency by relieving them of technical work at AllCare Veterinary Hospital.

The Veterinary Assistant assists in multiple procedures providing care for animals including physical examinations, dental procedures, surgeries, immunizations, euthanasia, client education, and inventory maintenance. This position requires a working knowledge of pharmaceutical drugs, common diseases; their symptoms, means of transmission, treatment and prevention, and other basic preventative health care recommendations. This is an overview of the position and the job responsibilities listed do not encompass the entire position.

General Accountabilities

Obtain and record patient histories. Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures. Collect specimens and perform routine laboratory procedures and tests in hematology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, and serology to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems. Dispense and administer medications, vaccines, serums and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians. Administer fluids and blood products as prescribed by the veterinarian. Administer and monitor anesthesia under the direction of a veterinarian. Provide specialized nursing care for injured or ill animals. Prepare patients, instruments and equipment for surgery. Assure that monitoring and support equipment such as anesthetic machines, cardiac monitors, scopes and breathing apparatus are in good working condition. Assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures. Take and process radiographs. Communicate with and educate owners. Maintain knowledge of preventative healthcare recommendations in order to answer client questions, provide education on vaccines, flea and heartworm products, and assist in marketing veterinary services from which their pet would benefit, such as a dental cleaning, senior wellness, spay and neuter and boarding. Educate clients on products and medications sold including dietary products and answer questions regarding product purchase/use. Maintain inventory of pharmaceuticals, equipment and supplies. Clean, maintain and sterilize instruments, equipment, and materials. Knowledgeable regarding related federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA. Ensure that the hospital and its employees are in compliance with regulations. Inform the veterinary hospital administrator of any regulatory issues. Work well with all team members and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the doctors, and the practice philosophy. Fill medication prescriptions. Assist veterinarian in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries. Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury. Provide emergency first aid to sick or injured animals. Exercise animals or provide them with companionship. Perform office reception duties, such as scheduling appointments or helping customers as needed. Perform hygiene-related duties, such as clipping animals' claws or cleaning and polishing teeth. Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease. The company reserves the right to add or change duties at any time

Skills

Receive, handle and treat patients with skill, compassion and care including: monitoring during anesthesia, administering fluids, assisting in diagnosing, surgery and general and specialized nursing care. Accurately perform laboratory tests. Accurately dispense and administer medications and vaccines. Input data into computer software system. Ability to observe animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, disease and discontent. Regular attendance and timeliness are an essential function in order to fulfill the requirements of this position. Strong communication and client service skills. Considerable tact and diplomacy is required. Ability to work with clients and patients in a professional, friendly, hospitable manner. Work well with all team members and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the doctors, and the practice philosophy. Perform general physical activities that require bending, standing, stooping, moving from room to room, sit, talk, and listen; may be required to walk or stand for long periods of time; will use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel; will reach with hands and arms. Frequently lift, carry and handle dogs weighing 50 lbs.
Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Paid time off Professional development assistance
Work Location: In person