Our Certified Veterinary Assistant job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience.
About the Certified Veterinary Assistant role
Certified Veterinary Assistants provide support to veterinarians in caring for animals by performing a variety of tasks, such as taking vital signs, administering medications and injections, assisting with examinations and treatments, and providing emotional support to owners. They also perform administrative duties, including scheduling appointments and managing medical records.
Role Purpose
The purpose of a Certified Veterinary Assistant is to assist veterinarians in providing medical care and treatment to animals in a veterinary clinic or hospital. They provide support to veterinarians by preparing and administering medications, taking vital signs, performing laboratory tests, conducting basic examinations and assisting with surgeries. Certified Veterinary Assistants also provide emotional support to both animals and their owners, as well as offering advice on pet care.
Certified Veterinary Assistant Summary
Certified Veterinary Assistant Job Summary
This position is responsible for providing support to veterinarians and veterinary technicians in a variety of medical and administrative tasks. The Certified Veterinary Assistant must have an understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and behavior; the ability to recognize and respond to signs of illness and injury; a working knowledge of medical terminology; and be detail oriented and organized. Responsibilities include animal handling and restraint, administering treatments, collecting and processing samples for testing, assisting with exams and surgeries, maintaining medical records and supplies, and providing exemplary customer service. The ideal candidate should possess strong communication skills, be proficient in computer applications, and have a compassionate attitude towards animals and their owners.
Certified Veterinary Assistant Duties
- Assist veterinarian with examinations and treatments
- Administer medications and vaccinations
- Maintain health records and other documents
- Provide care for animals in the office
- Observe animals for signs of distress or illness
- Clean and maintain animal cages and equipment
- Perform laboratory analysis and tests
- Educate clients on animal health care
Certified Veterinary Assistant Skills
- Ability to handle and restrain animals
- Knowledge of veterinary medical terminology
- Familiarity with veterinary equipment
- Knowledge of veterinary drug calculations
- Ability to maintain patient medical records
- Ability to follow instructions and protocols
Certified Veterinary Assistant Requirements
- Must have a current certification as a veterinary assistant
- Knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology
- Ability to work effectively with pet owners and staff
- Ability to restrain animals safely
- Ability to administer medications, injections and treatments
- Ability to take vital signs and perform laboratory tests
- Computer skills to maintain records
- Ability to keep accurate records, take inventory and order supplies
Personal Traits
- Attention to detail
- Patience
- Ability to interact with animals
- Ability to follow instructions