Veterinary Assistant Job Description

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Veterinary Assistant Job Description

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Farming, Animals, and Conservation

Job summary 1

The Veterinary Assistant is a key member of the hospital team who supports and assists the veterinarians and veterinary technicians, ensuring the safety of pets, clients, and other associates, and the continuity of quality veterinary care. The Veterinary Assistant provides professional, efficient, and exceptional service at all times, making sure that clients and pets are comfortable in the hospital. You will use your technical skills daily, within state practice acts, and as outlined in the NAVTA guidelines for veterinary assistant skills and duties.

Duties & Responsibilities 1

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Helping maintain the flow of patients
Communicating with the veterinarian and vet techs
- Carrying out or setting up procedures that do not require veterinarian or vet tech assistance
- Adhering to hospital standards that keep pets safe, and the treatment areas, exam rooms, and labs clean and organized
- Mentoring other members of the hospital team

Requirements & Skills 1

Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant program or the equivalent combination of education, training, and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities
High school diploma or equivalent preferred
Must be able to perform all required skills of NAVTA-approved veterinary assistant programs at a level that aids in the efficiency of the practice
Action Oriented
- Customer Focused
- Good Listener
- Effective Communicator

Job summary 2

Our hospital is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to help provide outstanding patient care and client service in a fast-paced, multi-doctor animal hospital.

Duties & Responsibilities 2

The Veterinary Assistant is responsible for assisting Veterinarians in the care of animals.
The Assistant helps during initial examinations by restraining animals when necessary, stocking examination and surgery rooms with supplies, sterilizing tools, and ensuring that equipment is in working order.
Veterinary Assistants also communicate with clients (pet owners) and update patient files.

Requirements & Skills 2

Applicants must demonstrate professionalism, dependability, healthy and positive communication skills, and the ability to multi-task
Will have an upbeat, friendly, and professional attitude
Be compassionate/caring
- Can work individually, as well as on a team
- Excellent communication skills, a sense of urgency, and working harmoniously with teammates are required
- Prior experience preferred

Job summary 3

We are looking for a Veterinary Assistant to join our team.

Duties & Responsibilities 3

Sanitizing/maintaining kennels, exam rooms, and common areas
Filing documents and data entry
Supporting curbside check-in
Assisting our clients and their pet(s) through the check-in and check-out process
Re-stocking supplies
Moving and filing charts
- Listening to voice messages and relaying messages to appropriate associates
- Sending, receiving, and distributing mail
- Providing our clients with updates on their pet(s) health via phone, text message, or photo

Requirements & Skills 3

Must be at least 18 years of age
- Must be a team player with a positive, can-do attitude
- Excellent communication skills – written and verbal
- Must be attentive, dependable, and adaptable

Job summary 4

As our Veterinary Assistant, you will join an outstanding and supportive work family, all with the common goal of making sure our patients get the loving care they deserve.

Duties & Responsibilities 4

Clean and straighten exam rooms to prepare for incoming patients following OSHA guidelines
Be familiar with infectious and common zoonotic diseases; including prevention, and the steps to reduce or eliminate transmission
Assist in restraining pets in a manner that allows necessary procedures to be done with minimal stress to patients, and ensures the safety of patients and people
- Take accurate notes and medical history of patients in exam rooms for doctors
- Anticipate the needs of the doctor for routine exam/surgery visits; follow doctors' requests to fill or refill medications
- Take temperatures, samples, and vitals as requested by a doctor; draw up vaccines, flea/tick medication/prevention, etc.

Requirements & Skills 4

Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
Excellent communication skills
- Possess a good attitude and contribute to a positive work environment
- Strong English — written and verbal language skills
- Animal care, restraints, client/customer interaction experience

Job summary 5

The Veterinary Assistant provides support to the veterinarians and technicians in their daily tasks by cleaning and maintaining equipment, feeding, exercising and grooming patients, preparing and sanitizing surgery suites, restraining and handling patients, and clerical and administrative work. They deliver quality care for all patients and provide exceptional service.

Duties & Responsibilities 5

Triage patients, perform physical exams, and treatments, and administer medication as directed by the Licensed Veterinary Technicians; maintain accurate medical records.
Assist doctors and technicians with the administration of medications or with patient restraint.
Perform laboratory tests and take radiographs.
Operate and maintain hospital equipment including EKG, fluid pump, syringe pump, scales, anesthetic monitors and machines, etc.
- Fill prescriptions, calculate and administer medications, and maintain proper documentation, logging, and security of controlled drugs.
- Feed patients as prescribed by the attending doctor or as the client has requested; record appetites; recognize and report any unusual conditions or abnormal behaviors.
- Maintain the cleanliness of the hospital each day; clean equipment, kennels, and facilities using chemicals and supplies; ensure the safe use of chemicals; complete laundry.

Requirements & Skills 5

High school diploma, a GED or equivalent combination of education, and/or experience.
One or more years of experience in a veterinary environment performing the above duties.
Able to perform moderately physically demanding work, that requires a lot of lifting (up to 50 pounds), cleaning, and constant motion.
- Ability to work with or around sick animals, potentially hazardous materials, cleaning chemicals, gas anesthetics, zoonotic diseases, and unpleasant odors.
- Requires knowledge of hospital procedures, treatment protocols; computer systems; and terminology used in a veterinary hospital.
- Must be flexible with scheduling and able to work some weekends and holidays.

Job summary 6

Veterinary Assistants play an integral role in the care of patients, clients, and referring veterinarians. The assistants work directly with the cardiologist to provide medical support and help the doctor achieve greater efficiency by relieving technical work, record keeping, and communication tasks. They have a very significant role in communicating with and educating clients about their pet's health.

Duties & Responsibilities 6

Requirements & Skills 6

Job summary 7

We are hiring for the position of Veterinary Assistant to staff our new, full-service veterinary hospital. The Veterinary Assistant provides technical assistance to the Veterinarian; assists with the daily care of all hospital patients; handles maintenance of the hospital and patient records; and conducts medical procedures for hospital patients under the supervision of a Certified Veterinarian.

Duties & Responsibilities 7

Assist the veterinarian during a wide range of surgeries including, but not limited to: spay/neuter surgeries, dental cleanings, extractions, mass removal, amputations, etc.
Complete routine treatment and care of patients, including, but not limited to: IV catheter placement, blood draws, diagnostics such as fecal exams, urinalysis, and blood work; intubate and induce anesthesia; prepare animals for a wide variety of surgeries
Monitor patient vitals and anesthesia during surgical procedures
Assist the veterinarian during daily wellness and problem exams including humane euthanasia
Complete a wide variety of administrative tasks including keeping patient records updated, transcribing doctor notes into the patient database, answering phone calls, scheduling daily appointments, ordering supplies, and updating the inventory database
Administering medications and vaccinations under the direction of a certified veterinarian
- Daily, routine care of hospital patients such as walking dogs, cleaning litterboxes, cleaning kennels, feeding and watering animals, and administering medications.
- Cleaning and sanitizing surgical equipment and instruments
- Daily hospital cleaning duties including, but not limited to, mopping the floor, emptying trash, sanitizing countertops and exam tables

Requirements & Skills 7

Friendly, compassionate, outgoing
Excellent communication skills are required

Job summary 8

The purpose of this position inherently involves providing excellent medical care to our full-service hospital patients and phenomenal customer care to their owners. The Veterinary Assistant represents the mission and values of all clients. Our Veterinary Assistant sets the tone within the technical and customer support staff in the hospital, and is responsible, like all team members, for fostering cohesion and motivation within the team.

Duties & Responsibilities 8

Greet clients and patients arriving for appointments and escort them into an exam room, obtain weight and vital signs (temperature, pulse, respirations, pain score, body condition score) and record all in the electronic medical record, begin documentation of the patient visit in the electronic medical record by documenting a thorough patient history.
Assist doctors with appointments (routine and emergency), surgery, dentistry, and euthanasia, under supervision from the doctor and the Lead Technician.
Perform patient restraint, obtain and process laboratory samples, handle and dispense medications at the direction of the doctor, and help maintain the electronic medical record.
Schedule appointments, communicate with and educate clients, relay test results to doctor and clients, maintain and update client/patient records.
Help prepare patients for surgical and dental procedures, assist doctor and/or technician in anesthetizing patients, and under supervision of the doctor and/or technician maintain patients safely under anesthesia while monitoring vital parameters, help monitor patients during recovery and prepare them for going home or transfer to an overnight care facility.
- Under the supervision of the doctor and/or technician, perform in-hospital treatments for sick patients including giving injectable and oral medications as well as intravenous fluid therapy; keep patients clean, watered, and fed (when indicated and directed by a doctor), safely walk canine patients when necessary for the elimination.
- Under the direction of the Hospital Office Manager, assist in the training of new staff members and general dissemination of knowledge as required.
- Keep hospital environment neat and clean; perform regular cleaning of environment based on necessity as well as based on a pre-determined maintenance schedule.

Requirements & Skills 8

Preferred to have at least 1 year of previous experience working in a veterinary practice or sufficient experience to ensure excellent performance at the above-listed skills
Must have excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Must be compassionate and sympathetic, and be able to maintain a professional attitude and demeanor during emotional and stressful situations
- Must have telephone and computer skills
- Must be a team player willing to learn new techniques and treatments, offer creative ideas, and accept change

Job summary 9

As a Veterinary Assistant, you will join a team of accomplished veterinary professionals providing exceptional pet health care services. We are looking for a compassionate Veterinary Assistant to join our practice. You will be working directly with pet owners, so you must have a passion to care for animals and provide excellent customer service.

Duties & Responsibilities 9

Assisting veterinarians in examining and monitoring patients in a surgical and clinical setting
- Maintaining a clean and sanitary environment throughout the clinic
- Filling prescriptions
- Performing laboratory work and diagnostic imaging

Requirements & Skills 9

Attention to detail to maintain accurate medical records & treatments
Must be able to lift 50 pounds
Must have the physical ability to restrain large pets, when needed
High School Diploma or equivalent
Two years of previous experience in an animal hospital or clinic
Have a basic understanding of animal behavior and healthcare
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Office
- Ability to work in a fast-paced clinical setting and be able to multi-task
- Willingness to learn new information and skills and have the ability to apply them

Job summary 10

Veterinary Assistants work closely with our veterinarians and assist them throughout the day with patients and cases. Veterinary Assistants help educate clients on responsible pet care. Veterinary Assistants ensure each pet receives all service and treatment recommendations accurately and in an efficient and timely manner.

Duties & Responsibilities 10

Requirements & Skills 10

Frequently asked questions

What is the job description of a veterinary assistant?

A Veterinary Assistant is a professional who provides support to Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians in a clinical setting. Their role is to assist with routine tasks and direct animal care, which helps ensure that the clinic or hospital runs smoothly and that animals receive the best care possible.

Here's a general job description for a Veterinary Assistant:

Animal Handling: Veterinary Assistants are often responsible for restraining animals during examinations and procedures. They also help with moving animals between different areas of the clinic or hospital.

Feeding and Care: They provide basic care for animals, which can include feeding, grooming, and exercising. In a hospital setting, they may also monitor the condition of hospitalized animals and report any changes to the veterinary staff.

Cleaning and Maintenance: Veterinary Assistants clean and disinfect cages, kennels, and examination and operating rooms. They also maintain and sterilize surgical instruments and equipment.

Assisting with Procedures: Under the supervision of a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician, a Veterinary Assistant may assist with routine procedures. This can include holding animals during vaccinations, taking temperature, or preparing animals for surgery.

Client Interaction: They often interact with pet owners. This can involve scheduling appointments, answering basic questions, and providing updates on a pet's condition.

Administration: Veterinary Assistants often help with administrative tasks, such as updating patient records, filling out forms, and maintaining inventory of medical supplies.

Laboratory Tasks: They may assist with basic laboratory tasks, such as preparing samples for analysis or running simple tests under the supervision of a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician.

Pharmacy Duties: Some Veterinary Assistants help with pharmacy duties, including preparing medications and educating pet owners on how to administer them at home.

Educating Pet Owners: They may provide information and advice to pet owners on topics like nutrition, exercise, and basic care.

It's important to note that the specific duties of a Veterinary Assistant can vary depending on the size and type of the practice, and local regulations about what Veterinary Assistants are allowed to do. Also, this role often requires physical stamina, as Veterinary Assistants can be on their feet for long periods and may need to lift or move heavy animals.

What are the 5 most important skills and qualities of a veterinary assistant?

A Veterinary Assistant plays a crucial role in a veterinary practice, contributing to animal care and supporting the work of veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Here are the five most important skills and qualities a Veterinary Assistant should possess:

Compassion and Empathy: A Veterinary Assistant interacts with animals that may be injured, sick, or frightened, as well as with their concerned owners. Therefore, they need to have a high degree of compassion and empathy, both for animals and people. This helps them provide the best care possible and support owners during difficult times.

Attention to Detail: There are many tasks in a veterinary clinic that require careful attention to detail. Whether it's following precise instructions for preparing an animal for a procedure, maintaining accurate patient records, or noticing changes in an animal's behavior or condition, being detail-oriented is essential.

Physical Stamina and Dexterity: Veterinary Assistants often have to handle and restrain animals of various sizes, which requires physical strength. They may also be on their feet for extended periods and need to perform tasks that require fine motor skills, such as administering medication or assisting with procedures.

Communication Skills: Good communication is key in a veterinary clinic. Veterinary Assistants need to clearly and effectively communicate with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and pet owners. This can involve explaining care instructions to owners, conveying information about an animal's condition to other staff members, or discussing treatment plans.

Patience and Calmness: Working with animals can be unpredictable, and situations may become stressful quickly. Veterinary Assistants need to remain patient and calm under pressure, whether they're dealing with a frightened animal, a complex procedure, or a distressed pet owner. Their ability to stay composed can help maintain a safe and effective work environment.

In addition to these skills and qualities, a genuine love for animals and a commitment to their welfare is the underlying driving force for most people in this profession. It's a role that can be emotionally challenging, but also extremely rewarding for those passionate about animal care.

Olivia Powell
Recruiting expert

Last updated Sep 22

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Frequently asked questions

What is the job description of a veterinary assistant?

What are the 5 most important skills and qualities of a veterinary assistant?

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