Career - Veterinary Assistant

A veterinary assistant supports veterinarians and veterinary technicians, which allows them to focus on their job responsibilities.  Veterinary assistants provide clients with information regarding treatments and products, keep treatment areas clean, and assist with nursing duties.

• Greet clients and pets with a positive attitude, get basic history/reason for visit.
• Get weights at every visit, vitals as needed.
• Prepare necessary items for visit, be able to think ahead and anticipate doctor’s needs.
• Input services from visit and update medical records with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Patient restraint
• General nursing care, feeding and walking, of hospitalized patients.
• General cleaning of the hospital.
• Answering phones when needed.
• Assisting wherever needed in the hospital.
• Learning of more technical skills as time allows and motivation to learn is demonstrated. 

• Feel and express a genuine liking for animals and for working in an animal care environment.
• Promote a Fear Free pet and client experience, in accordance with Covington Veterinary Hospital philosophy.
• Deal intelligibly, pleasantly and efficiently with clients on the telephone and in person, often doing several things at one time.
• Display tact and diplomacy with staff members and clients.
• Show professionalism and maturity to other staff members.
• Understand and carry out oral and written directions.
• Good critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to multitask proficiently.
• Be flexible in attitude and work habits.
• Willingness to continue to learn and grow.  
• Be able to pronounce, spell and know the meaning of commonly used veterinary terms.
• Understand vaccinations, basic lab tests, common diseases and pet behavior.  
• Able to use computer systems, word processing programs, email, web search and other skills needed to utilize the practice management software.
• Work does require sitting or standing for extended periods of time, ability to safely lift up to 30#, squatting, and/or twisting.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Previous Veterinary experience preferred, but not necessary.
• Complete 2 hours continuing education per quarter – can be in house or online.