Role
Location
Description
Veterinary Assistant
Summary of Position: The duties will include, but may not be limited to, keeping accurate medical records, clerical work, client education, promotion of hospital products and services and support of the organization. This position requires some knowledge of hospital procedures, policies and services; client and patient treatment protocols; hospital computer systems; and the standard procedures, records, and terminology used in a veterinary hospital. The Veterinary Assistant provides support with pet restraint, lab work, procedures, surgery, nursing care, and triage/discharge of patients.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Perform physical exams, treatments, and administer medication as directed by the veterinarian
- Prep and assist in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedures
- Triage patients, perform physical exams, and gather brief medical histories
- Perform laboratory tests and take radiographs
- Operate and maintain hospital equipment, i.e., EKG, fluid pump, syringe pump, scales, syringe pump, anesthetic monitors and machines
- Anesthetize animals and monitor anesthesia under the direction and supervision of the veterinarian
- Communicate with clients/owners about the status of patients, as directed by the veterinarian
- Fill prescriptions/administer medications, including proper documentation, logging, and security of controlled drugs
- Maintain cleanliness of exam rooms (after each patient), reception areas, hospital grounds, and treatment areas, as needed
- Clean cages, as needed
- Do laundry
- Communicate patient status with oncoming staff and veterinarians, and update records and financial information, as needed, in the computer
- Display confidence and reassurance when dealing with pets experiencing severe stress, illness, and/or pain
- Communicate and approach job duties in a mature manner
- Foster teamwork approach and work well with all levels of hospital team members
- Participate in all staff and technician/assistant mandatory staff meetings
- Participate in the review process for other technical staff and doctors when requested
- Answer phones and perform other reception duties as needed by the hospital
- Understand zoonotic disease risks in the work environment and use all appropriate safety equipment, garments, and procedures to protect self and others
- Understand and limit the potential exposure to bites, scratches, and potential injuries
- Understand that employees in this role are exposed to various cleaning solutions and other chemicals, odors, noises, and animal wastes and behave in a professional manner when dealing with these conditions
Competencies/Requirements:
Familiarity with Hospital policies and procedures
Proficiency
- Clinical laboratory procedures
- Medication calculations and administration
- Catheter placement
- Intubation
- Vital sign monitoring
- Client communications
- Anesthesiology
- Animal restraint
- Patient physical assessments
- Radiographic technique
- Venipuncture
Education
- High School diploma or equivalent
- Some continuing education seminars or other education opportunities in the area of
veterinary science
Work Experience
- One or more year’s experience in veterinary environment successfully performing
all of the duties of this position
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift up to 40 pounds (work requires lifting, carrying, and restraining animals with assistance from other staff members for animals weighing over 40 pounds
- Ability to walk or stand for extended periods; frequently working in a bent position
At PetVet Care Centers, we’re committed to a Culture of Care — for pets, for the people who love them, and for the team members who make it all possible. With more than 420 hospitals across the U.S. and a team of over 11,000 dedicated professionals, including 1700+ veterinarians, we offer a unique blend of local leadership and national support that helps our hospitals thrive.
Our model is built on partnership, collaboration, and local medical autonomy, empowering each hospital to deliver high-quality care while benefiting from shared resources and a strong professional community. Whether you’re providing care in a hospital or supporting operations behind the scenes, PetVet is a place where you can grow your career, stay connected to your purpose, and make a meaningful impact.
You care for pets. We care for you.
PetVet is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, citizenship, national origin/ancestry, physical/mental disabilities, military status or any other basis prohibited by law. EOE, M/F/D/V
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