The Veterinary Technician fully assists the DVMS, 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 the Veterinary Hospital.

The Veterinary Technician assists in multiple procedures providing care for animals including physical examinations, dental procedures, surgeries, immunizations, euthanasia as well as client education, marketing 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. The Veterinary Technician is under the direct supervision of the Veterinary Technician Supervisor, and Hospital Manager

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform physical exams, treatments, and administer medication as directed by the veterinarian
• Prep and assist in diagnostic, medical, and surgical procedure
• 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 on-call schedule as assigned
• 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
• Proactive role in developing new skills and furthering knowledge base by attending CE
• Demonstrate flexibility to float to other departments in times of need
• Support the team in welcoming new employees and assist in the training process when needed
• Performs other duties as assigned

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Familiarity with Hospital policies and procedures
• Clinical laboratory procedures
• Medication calculations and administration
• Venipuncture
• Intubation
• Catheter placement
• Animal restraint
• Vital sign monitoring
• Client communications
• Radiographic technique and anesthesiology
• Patient physical assessments
  

EDUCATION/ EXPERIENCE:

• Current Veterinary Technician Registration Education Graduate of an accredited veterinary technology program High School diploma or equivalent
• 1+ years of experience in veterinary environment, including intern assignmentsposition

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

Ability to lift up to 50 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

Ability to compte assigned tasks, even if extended work hours are required to do so

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