Veterinary Assistant

Position Title: Veterinary Assistant
Reports To: Lead Veterinary Technician / Hospital Manager / Veterinarian
Department: Medical Team
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: Hourly $15-$18.50

Position Summary

The Veterinary Assistant (Non-Certified is okay) supports veterinarians and licensed technicians in providing high-quality patient care and excellent client service. While not credentialed, this role requires strong hands-on skills, safe patient handling, and the ability to assist in medical procedures, diagnostics, treatments, and recordkeeping under the supervision of a veterinarian or LVT.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Patient Care & Handling

· Safely restrain and handle patients for examinations, treatments, and procedures.

· Provide comfort, monitoring, and nursing care to hospitalized patients.

· Assist with induction and monitoring of anesthesia under LVT/DVM supervision.

· Perform dental charting and assist with dental cleanings as trained.

Medical Support

· Maintain exam rooms, treatment areas, and surgical suites.

· Assist veterinarians during exams, procedures, and surgeries.

· Collect and process samples (blood, urine, fecal, cytology) as trained.

· Run in-house diagnostics (bloodwork, urinalysis, fecals, SNAP tests) etc.

· Fill prescriptions accurately and safely.

· Accurately enter medical notes and charges in the practice management system.

Client Service

· Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients about patient care, treatment plans, and discharge instructions (as directed by the doctor).

· Provide education on preventative care, nutrition, and medications under the guidance of the DVM/LVT.

Hospital Operations

· Clean, sterilize, and maintain equipment and instruments.

· Maintain hospital cleanliness and organization, including treatment and kennel areas.

· Stock and rotate supplies; notify leadership when items are low.

· Follow infection control, safety, and AAHA standards.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

· Compassion for animals and people, with empathy and strong communication skills.

· Ability to restrain animals safely and confidently in various situations.

· Skilled in sample collection, diagnostics, and treatment assistance (as trained).

· Strong teamwork and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

· Basic computer and record-keeping skills.

· Ability to communicate clearly, both verbally and in writing, including entering coherent and professional statements in patient records.

· Knowledge of basic pharmacology and ability to fill prescriptions accurately under supervision.

Education & Experience

· High school diploma or equivalent required.

· Previous animal handling required. Experience can be from vet care, shelter care or pet daycare/boarding.

· Formal credentialing (LVT/CVT/RVT) not required.

Physical Requirements

· Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for extended periods.

· Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs (with assistance available for larger patients).

· Exposure to allergens, zoonotic diseases, anesthesia, radiation, and cleaning chemicals with appropriate PPE provided.

Core Values Alignment

· Hospital-Oriented: Supports the team and fosters a positive environment.

· Results-Driven: Strives for accuracy, efficiency, and high-quality care.

· Accountable: Takes responsibility for duties and follows through.

· Transparent: Communicates clearly with teammates and clients.

· Innovative: Open to learning, training, and improving hospital processes.