Certified/Non-Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) - Job Description

Reports To: MDVM/Hospital Manager

Position Summary

The Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) provides skilled support to veterinarians and technicians in patient care, diagnostics, and client service. This role requires successful completion of a certified veterinary assistant program and demonstrates competency beyond an entry-level assistant, while still working under the supervision of a licensed technician or veterinarian.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

·         • All Tech Assistant duties.

·         • Safely restrain and handle patients during exams and procedures.

·         • Collect blood, urine, and fecal samples for diagnostics.

·         • Run in-house lab tests (CBC, chemistries, urinalysis, SNAP tests).

·         • Place IV catheters and administer fluids under supervision.

·         • Assist with radiographs using proper safety protocols.

·         • Prepare and maintain surgical packs and assist in sterile procedure setup.

·         • Provide nursing care for hospitalized patients (feeding, treatments, monitoring).

·         • Dispense medications as directed by a veterinarian.

·         • Communicate clearly with clients about basic home care and follow-up instructions.

·         • Mentor Tech Assistants and support training of new staff.

Qualifications

·         • High school diploma or equivalent.

·         • Completion of an approved Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) program   preferred

·         • Strong animal handling and clinical skills.

·         • Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

·         • Veterinary hospital experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

·         • Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted.

·         • Standing, walking, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.

·         • Handling animals in stressful or emergent situations.

Work Environment

·         • Exposure to animal waste, blood, medications, and cleaning agents.

·         • Noise from animals and hospital equipment.

·         • Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility.

Core Competencies

·         • Patient care and safety.

·         • Technical proficiency.

·         • Teamwork and dependability.

·         • Attention to detail.

·         • Professionalism and client service orientation.