Registered Veterinary Technician

The County of Riverside seeks candidates to fill positions throughout Riverside County. A list of eligible candidates will be established to fill current and future vacancies. The Riverside County Department of Animal Services has an opportunity for a Registered Veterinary Technician located at the Riverside County Animal Shelter in Jurupa Valley, San Jacinto and Coachella. The Registered Veterinary Technician will be responsible for performing routine animal checkups and providing support during emergencies. Duties include communicating with pet owners to determine changes in their pet's health and well-being, checking an animal's weight, heartbeat, and other vitals, drawing blood samples, and administering medications. Responsibilities also include preparing instruments and medical supplies for the Veterinary Surgeon's use, preparing animals for sterilization surgery, assisting with anesthesia and monitoring animals during surgical sterilization, observing animals after surgery to detect any post-surgical complications, and documenting findings. The incumbent may assist with the euthanasia of animals, the lifting of animals for disposal and impounding. Registered Veterinary Technicians may be required to work evenings, weekends, and/or holidays. Detailed Responsibilities Assist a Veterinary Surgeon in the administration of physical examinations to determine surgical fitness of animals by handling animals during the examination. Prepare instruments and medical supplies for the Veterinary Surgeon's use; prepare animals for sterilization surgery and assist with anesthesia procedures. Provide the Veterinary Surgeon with supplies needed during the sterilization surgery of animals; provide support for any emergencies that might arise. Monitor animals during surgery as needed; observe animals after surgery to detect any abnormal behavior or physical symptoms and report findings to the Veterinary Surgeon. Clean and prepare surgical packs and instruments for sterilization prior to surgery; provide general care for and feed animals. Under direction, render first aid, medical treatments, and therapy as required for hospitalized animals. Assist with the admittance and discharge of animals to and from clinic. Assist in training clinic personnel; order necessary materials and medications required by the Spay and Neuter Facility and Shelter. Assist with filling prescriptions; assist spay and neuter staff with daily operations. Observe general shelter population for illness and/or injury. Assist veterinarians in treating shelter animals, including a variety of exotic animals, through the restraining and managing of many different species. Education Successful completion of the education necessary to obtain the required certification issued by the California Veterinary Medical Board. Experience One year of paid or voluntary experience working in a kennel, veterinary, or animal shelter facility. Certification Possession of a valid certificate as a Registered Veterinary Technician issued by the California Veterinary Medical Board. Other Requirements Possession of a valid California Driver's License and completion of a series of three rabies vaccines within 30 days of employment. Physical Exposures This position may require working in an environment with exposure to animal smells, dander, excrement, fluids/wounds, and aggressive animals. Knowledge and Skills Safe, humane and efficient methods for the care and treatment of small animals, particularly dogs and cats; knowledge of equipment and procedures used at a veterinary clinic; understanding of the physical and behavioral characteristics of small animals; familiarity with substances and methods used to clean and disinfect animal habitats. Who May Apply This recruitment is open to all candidates. #J-18808-Ljbffr