Veterinary Assistant/Receptionist

Job description

The Veterinary Assistant/Veterinary Receptionist provides vital support to our veterinarians and veterinary technicians by ensuring a clean, safe, and efficient clinical environment. This role involves handling animals, assisting with procedures, and performing administrative tasks to ensure high-quality care for pantients and the people who love them. The Veterinary Receptionist to be the first point of contact for our clients and their pets. In this role, you will be responsible for delivering excellent client service, managing front desk operations, and supporting the veterinary team by ensuring smooth communication and efficient scheduling. This is a hybrid role requiring strong skills and reliability in all areas of our hospital. 

Key Responsibilities Veterinary Assistant:

• Assist veterinarians and technicians during examinations and procedures
• Restrain animals safely and humanely during treatments or exams
• Feed, bathe, groom, and exercise animals as needed
• Clean and disinfect exam rooms, kennels, cages, and surgical areas
• Prepare exam and treatment areas with necessary supplies and equipment
• Collect and label samples (urine, feces, blood) for testing
• Administer medications and treatments under veterinary supervision
• Surgery monitoring
• Obtain patients vitals
• Maintain accurate patient records and documentation
• Educate pet owners on post-treatment care, medications, and procedures
• Handle administrative tasks such as answering phones, scheduling, and filing

Key Responsibilities Veterinary Receptionist:

• Relay information between veterinarians, vet techs, and clients.
• Prepare and manage medical charts, consent forms, and treatment authorizations.
• Handle prescription requests and refills under veterinary guidance.
• Greet clients and their pets warmly in person and over the phone.
• Schedule appointments, surgeries, and follow-up visits.
• Answer inquiries about services, fees, and basic pet care procedures.
• Provide updates to clients on their pet’s status (pre/post-treatment).
• Maintain a calm, empathetic, and professional demeanor, even during emergencies or emotionally sensitive situations.

Requirements:

• Previous experience in both roles of Veterinary Reception and Veterinary Assisting. Minimum experience, 1 year preferred.
• Ability to lift and restrain animals (up to 40 lbs. or more)
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Willingness to work weekends and evenings
• Completion of a veterinary assistant training program
• Multitasking in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail
• Compassion and patience when dealing with distressed pet owners
• Ability to handle upset clients or emergency situations calmly and professionally