Entry-Level Veterinary Assistant with Phlebotomy Skills Hourly Pay at Banfield, The Pet Hospital

Job Description for Veterinary Assistant

The veterinary assistant primarily assists veterinarians in a practice with animal care. Often, it involves working side by side with the veterinarian to administer vaccinations, draw blood for testing, or otherwise generally assist in examinations and care. In certain situations, they are called upon to assist the veterinarian in surgical procedures as well.

The veterinary assistant may have office duties as well in some practices. They may help with scheduling appointments, work as a liaison with pet owners, and help maintain a clean, healthy waiting area and examination environment. Thus, depending on the situation, an assistant may need at least some familiarity with office functions such as word processing and file management.

Where allowed by licensing requirements, the assistant also typically has supervisory responsibilities for animals left in the care of the veterinary practice. They handle proper feeding and water schedules, and they must keep such areas clean and sanitary, working to assist housebroken animals in elimination and other hands-on needs.

One of the main requirements for the veterinary assistant position is a love for and comfort with animals and pets of all kinds. Additionally, being a veterinary assistant normally requires some form of technical or vocational training and certification. Normally, veterinary assistants work standard business hours, but, in certain practices, they may also be required to spend late nights or overnights at the clinic in the aforementioned supervisory role. (Copyright 2019 PayScale.com)

• Interact with animals, staff and owners to determine care plans move animals to designated locations.
• Train owners in drug administration, preventative maintenance and post-procedure care.
• Inventory equipment and medications to determine ordering needs and availability.
• Maintain animals, including feeding, cleaning, administering drugs and documenting care.
• Support examinations by obtaining data and ensuring a safe environment.

Veterinary Assistant Job Listings