Veterinarian Assistant- Agate Bay Animal Hospital

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Competitive salary
• Employee discounts

MUST RESIDE WITHIN 10 MILES OF TAHOE VISTA AND HAVE A MODE OF TRANSPORTATION 
Agate Bay Animal Hospital

Position Overview

The Veterinary Assistant at Agate Bay Animal Hospital supports the clinical team in delivering high-quality, compassionate care to animal patients. This role follows the hospital's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, safety, and the well-being of both animals and staff. The assistant is responsible for a wide range of duties, from animal care and cleaning to supporting medical procedures and client communications. 

Key Responsibilities

Animal Care & Handling

• Safely restrain and handle dogs and cats during exams, treatments, and procedures, using low-stress and humane techniques as outlined in the SOPs.
• Monitor animal health and behavior, immediately reporting any signs of illness, injury, or distress to the veterinarian on duty.
• Feed, water, and exercise animals according to individualized instructions, including administering medications as directed and monitoring for successful ingestion.
• Maintain accurate records of animal intake, feeding, medication, and health status in AviMark, the hospital’s data management system.

Sanitation & Disease Control

• Clean and disinfect animal cabins, play yards, exam rooms, and all hospital areas according to established protocols to prevent disease transmission (including proper use of PPE and hand hygiene).
• Collect and dispose of animal waste promptly; perform regular poop scooping and yard cleaning throughout the day.
• Wash and sanitize dishes, laundry, and equipment, strictly separating human and animal items.

Medical & Technical Support

• Assist veterinarians and technicians with exams, treatments, surgeries, and diagnostic procedures, including animal restraint, preparing surgical areas, and monitoring anesthesia under supervision.
• Prepare and run laboratory tests (bloodwork, urinalysis, fecal tests) with appropriate sample handling and machine operation, following all safety and documentation protocols.
• Fill medications and vaccines as directed, double-checking dosages and labels, and ensuring proper recordkeeping and client communication.

Client Service & Communication

• Greet clients and patients, assist with check-in and weigh-ins, and gather relevant medical histories.
• Answer phones, schedule appointments, and respond to emails in a professional, courteous manner, following hospital telephone and confidentiality protocols.
• Document all client communications and medical updates in the patient’s chart.

Facility Operations

• Complete daily, weekly, and end-of-day cleaning and organizational tasks as assigned (including laundry, trash removal, sweeping, mopping, and restocking supplies)
• Participate in ongoing training and continuing education as required by the hospital, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of SOPs and best practices.
• Adhere to all safety, hazard communication, and controlled substance handling policies.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; prior experience in animal care or veterinary settings preferred.
• MUST RESIDE WITHIN 10 MILES OF TAHOE VISTA AND HAVE A MODE OF TRANSPORTATION 
• Ability to safely handle animals of varying sizes and temperaments, with a commitment to humane, low-stress techniques.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and cleanliness.
• Basic computer skills and familiarity with data entry; experience with AviMark a plus.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks.
• Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed.

Work Environment & Expectations

• Expected to contribute to a positive, respectful, and collaborative team environment.
• Commitment to the hospital’s mission of providing consistent, compassionate, and high-quality care for all animals and their families.