Certified Veterinary Assistant
Warren Woods Veterinary Hospital
Job Description
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.
· • 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.
