Veterinary Assistant

Hospital Name: Summer Street Cat Clinic - Buffalo

Job Type: Support Staff

Description & Requirements

Summer Street Cat Clinic

Job Title: Veterinary Assistant (Feline-Only Practice)

Summer Street Cat Clinic is seeking a veterinary assistant for an exciting opportunity at Western New York’s Original Cat-Exclusive hospital! We pride ourselves on providing the highest standard of care to our feline patients, building strong, lasting relationships with our loyal clientele. With over 40 years of history, our clinic has become a trusted name in the community, supported by a caring, experienced, and supportive team.

We are looking for a compassionate, detail-oriented Veterinary Assistant to join our team. You will support our veterinarians and technicians by providing low-stress handling for our feline patients, maintaining a pristine hospital environment, and delivering exceptional customer service to cat owners.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Handling

• Handle felines safely: Use gentle, low-stress, and fear-free restraint techniques for exams, blood drawing, and medical procedures.

Clinical & Laboratory Support

• Lab prep support: Collect and prep urine, fecal, and blood samples for in-house or reference lab testing.
• Surgery support: Clean, wrap, and sterilize surgical instruments, and prep treatment or surgical areas.
• Restock supplies: Keep exam rooms, treatment areas, and wards fully stocked with medical supplies.

Hospital Cleanliness & Safety

• Sanitize areas: Disinfect exam rooms between appointments, clean cages, and maintain strict infection control protocols.
• General upkeep: Handle clinic laundry, wash food/water bowls, and sweep or mop floors throughout the shift.

Client Communication

• Educate owners: Help explain post-care instructions, medication administration, and general feline wellness tips.

Qualifications & Skills

• Education: High school diploma or GED required.
• Experience: Minimum 1 year of experience working in a veterinary setting or animal care environment.
• Passion for cats: A genuine love and deep understanding of feline behavior, body language, and unique medical needs.
• Soft skills: Strong communication, patience, empathy, and active teamwork.
• Physical requirements: Ability to stand for long periods, bend, and lift/carry up to 40 pounds safely.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience. ($17-$22)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 401K Plan with Employer Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays.
• Generous employee pet care discounts.
• A quiet, dog-free work environment focused purely on cats!

Why Join Us?

• If you are passionate about cats and are interested in joining a team of highly devoted feline advocates, our hospital may be the right fit for you.
• Two Convenient Locations: Buffalo, NY (downtown) and Getzville, NY (Amherst area).
• Close-Knit Team: Be part of a small, family-oriented clinic where everyone knows each other. Many of our employees have been with us for decades!
• Community Involvement: Take part in local parades, fundraisers for the Pet Emergency Fund, and build strong relationships with both clients and the community.
• Client Loyalty: Our clients have been with us since the clinic's opening, trusting us with their cats’ health for over 40 years.
• Join a team where you're more than just a number – you are part of the family. Build lasting relationships with a small team and a loyal client base that appreciates the unique cat care we offer.