Veterinary Assistant

Picayune MS

Description

POSITION TITLE: Veterinary Assistant REPORTS TO: Shelter Manager POSITION SUMMARY: The person in this position will assist in managing the health and care of the cats at the SpayMart shelter in Picayune, MS, transporting cats to vet visits, and other related duties, as assigned by the Shelter Manager The Veterinary Assistant’s duties include but are not limited to: Following medical protocols as determined by the Director to be approved by designated DVM Assisting in monitoring the health of all animals at the shelter on their scheduled shifts Helping to ensure animals are properly cared for and providing prescribed treatments, SID and BID Helping to ensure medication logs are kept up to date Helping to ensure that all animals receive monthly preventives each month; assisting in applying prevention monthly Helping to ensure that all animals remain up to date on vaccines; administering vaccines Assisting in collecting blood samples when necessary; sending samples to lab Collecting urine and fecal samples; performing in-house fecal and urine tests Collecting skin scrape samples, using microscope to read samples Collecting fungal cultures on suspected ringworm cats Assisting in combo testing cats when necessary Helping to identify cats that need veterinarian treatments and coordinate visits with veterinary partners and bringing this to the attention of Shelter Manager Transport cats to vet offices, when necessary Help to ensure that all pet records are kept current, as hard copy files and in PetPoint. Ensure that the shared population spreadsheet of animals is kept up to date, on a daily basis Providing mental stimulation and enrichment to the cats at the shelter on a regular basis Assist with cleaning cages and pens, when necessary, following established protocols Restock supplies, when needed Animal Transfer Coordination Work with Shelter Manager to select animals for transport Ensure all animal records are up to date in PetPoint, and fit the requirements for the receiving shelter Facilitate transfer of data in PetPoint to receiving shelter’s PetPoint system, if applicable. Assist with securing transport drivers; coordinate logistics and schedule Assist with communication with the receiving shelter This role requires the following qualifications: Must speak English and be able to read and write Must be able to lift 50 pounds Must be comfortable restraining animals Must be comfortable around unsocialized cats Must be able to medicate and give sub-q fluids Must have good observational skills Must be able to read and understand medical charts; must have a working knowledge of medical terminology Must be a team player and be willing to assist with daily animal care/cleaning Must be willing/able to work day and night shifts Must be willing to work weekends and holidays.