Job Summary:

The Veterinary Technician will perform medical tests in a laboratory environment for use in the treatment and diagnosis of diseases in animals; prepare vaccines and serums for prevention of diseases; prepare tissue samples, take blood samples, and execute laboratory tests, such as urinalysis and blood counts; and clean and sterilize instruments and materials and maintain equipment and machines.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• May supervise and train veterinary students and other staff members.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Maintains controlled drug inventory and related logbooks. Administers anesthesia to animals under the direction of a veterinarian and monitor animals responses to anesthetics so dosages can be adjusted.
• Cares for and monitors the condition of animals recovering from surgery. Administers emergency first aid such as performing emergency resuscitation or other life-saving procedures.
• Performs laboratory tests on blood, urine, and feces such as urinalyses and blood counts to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of animal health problems. Prepares and administers medications, vaccines, serums, and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians.
• Fills prescriptions, measuring medications and labeling containers.
• Takes and develops diagnostic radiographs using x-ray equipment. Bathes animals, clips nails or claws, and brushes and cuts animals hair. Performs dental work such as cleaning, polishing, and extracting teeth.
• Prepares treatment rooms for surgery. Cleans kennels, animal holding areas, surgery suites, examination rooms, and animal loading/unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
• Provides veterinarians with the correct equipment and instruments. Cleans and sterilizes instruments, equipment, and materials.
• Assists with animal euthanasia and the disposal of remains.
• Provides information and counseling regarding issues such as animal health care, behavior problems, and nutrition.
• Dresses and sutures wounds and applies splints and other protective devices.
• Performs office, clerical, and accounting duties such as reception, billing, bookkeeping, and selling products.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• General understanding of animal physiology and veterinary terminology.
• Strong customer service skills.

Education and Experience:

• B.S. in Veterinary Technology.
• Appropriate state certification and licensing required.
• At least two years of relevant experience.

Physical Requirements:

• Prolonged periods of standing, reaching, bending, and lifting.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds at times.