The veterinary assistant is responsible for a variety of tasks related to customer service and patient care within the veterinary practice. Tasks include animal handling, hospitalized patient care, creating and presenting financial options and estimates, accurately entering service charges into the client processing database, extensive client interaction, and handling and preparing medications. Veterinary assistants are requested to work their scheduled shifts. Leaving early or any shift changes need to be approved by management.

Education and Experience

  • Required: High School graduate or equivalent
  • Recommended: Minimum 1 year experience in a veterinary hospital
  • Recommended: Enrollment or graduation from accredited CVA program

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
(Functions an individual can perform unaided or with the assistance of reasonable 
accommodation.)

  • Be on time and ready to work
  • Maintain and promote a positive work environment.
  • The ability to communicate and work collectively with team members.
  • Maintain professional and courteous demeanor in challenging/stressful situations.
  • Prepare and maintain exam, treatment, and surgical rooms.
  • Treat clients and patients in a friendly and professional manner at all times.
  • Be aware of behavioral cues in our patients and handle them in a safe manner.
  • Maintain order to public areas (waiting room, exam rooms, kennel area, etc.).
  • Keep work areas clean, free from clutter, trash and organized.
  • Obtain patient history and updates from clients.
  • The ability to perform and assist with diagnostics, medical treatments and administer medications as requested by DVM.
  • Maintain accurate and complete patient medical records.
  • The ability to accurately enter service fees into the patient processing database.
  • The ability to create accurate prescription labels and prepare medications under the direct supervision of a DVM.
  • Review patient instructions with clients and distribute educational materials.
  • The ability to learn how to create and review treatment estimates and payment options with clients.
  • Knowledge of the procedures used for receiving, treating, and scheduling patients, for ordering medical supplies, and requesting laboratory tests.
  • Knowledge of the use, care, and storage of veterinary instruments, materials, and equipment.
  • Knowledge of sterilization techniques to sterilize various instruments and materials.
  • Ability to work independently on assigned tasks as well as to accept direction on given assignments. 
  • Critical thinking - Understanding logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Exhibit strong problem solving and an organized approach to the position.
  • Be flexible with scheduling.
  • Assist in other departments of the hospital as needed.

Physical Effort
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the primary functions of this job. 

  • Frequently required to bend, stand, stoop, walk, sit, talk, and listen, frequently working in a bent position. 
  • Frequently use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel; will reach with hands and arms. 
  • Use strength or agility in capturing and restraining stronger, more active animals. 
  • Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

Reporting Relationship

  • Reports to DVM’s/Practice Manager
  • *Nothing in this job description restricts management’s rights to assign or reassign duties and/or responsibilities at any time. 

Work Environment
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to hazards associated with aggressive patients; hazards associated with infected animals and controlled substances; exposure to unpleasant odors and noises; exposure to bites, scratches and animal wastes; possible exposure to contagious diseases. Follow federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA.