In-demand animal hospital seeking maternity relief coverage from late February for approximately 12 weeks. 

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Veterinary Technician assists the doctors at Faulkville Animal Hospital, to the fullest possible extent, 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.

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 and 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 guidance and supervision of the Veterinary Technician Team Leader and Veterinarians.

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Demonstrate warmth, courtesy and professionalism in all interactions with clients. Exercise compassion and care in all interactions with patients.
• Restrain animals in a safe, efficient and compassionate manner during examinations and procedures. Know how to properly handle difficult or contentious animals.
• Obtain and record patient histories.
• Collect specimens and perform routine laboratory procedures and tests in hematology, biochemistry, chemistry, microbiology, urinalysis, and serology to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems.
• Dispense and administer medications, vaccines, serums and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians.
• Administer fluids and blood products as prescribed by the veterinarian.
• Administer and monitor anesthesia under the direction of a veterinarian.
• Provide specialized nursing care for injured or ill animals.
• Prepare patients, instruments and equipment for surgery.
• Assure that monitoring and support equipment such as anesthetic machines, cardiac monitors, scopes and breathing apparatus are in good working condition.
• Assist in diagnostic, medical and surgical procedures using a range of diagnostic equipment including electrocardiographic, radiographic and ultrasonographic equipment.
• Take and process radiographs.
• Communicate with and educate owners.
• Maintain knowledge of preventative healthcare recommendations in order to answer client questions, provide education on vaccines, flea and heartworm products, and assist in marketing veterinary services from which their pet would benefit, such as a dental cleaning, senior wellness, spay and neuter and boarding.
• Educate clients on products and medications sold including dietary products and answer questions regarding product purchase/use.
• Maintain inventory of pharmaceuticals, equipment and supplies.
• Clean, maintain and sterilize instruments, equipment, and materials.

·         Knowledgeable regarding related federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA.  Ensure that the hospital and its employees are in compliance with regulations.  Inform the veterinary hospital administrator of any regulatory issues.

• Work well with all team members and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the doctors, and the practice philosophy.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions:

·         Receive, handle and treat patients with skill, compassion and care including: monitoring during anesthesia, administering fluids, assisting in diagnosing, surgery and general and specialized nursing care.

·         Accurately perform laboratory tests.

·         Accurately dispense and administer medications and vaccines.

·         Input data into computer software system.

·         Ability to observe animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, disease and discontent.

·         Regular attendance and timeliness are an essential function in order to fulfill the requirements of this position.

·         Strong communication and client service skills. Considerable tact and diplomacy is required. Ability to work with clients and patients in a professional, friendly, hospitable manner.

·         Work well with all team members and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the doctors, and the practice philosophy.

·         Perform general physical activities that require bending, standing, stooping, moving from room to room, sit, talk, and listen; may be required to walk or stand for long periods of time; will use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel; will reach with hands and arms.

·         Frequently lift, carry and handle dogs weighing 50 lbs.

Minimum Experience Required: 1 year experience as a veterinary technician