Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary TechnicianDepartment: Veterinary TechniciansEmployment Type: Full TimeLocation: Bradenton, FloridaCompensation: $18.00 - $22.00 / hourDescriptionRanch Animal Hospital is a well-established and compassionate small animal general practice located in Bradenton, FL. We take great pride in offering exceptional veterinary care with a personal touch, emphasizing both the medical and emotional well-being of every pet that comes through our doors. Our dedicated team is committed to providing the highest standard of veterinary services through advanced medical techniques, state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, and a compassionate approach to animal care. We are now seeking a skilled and experienced Veterinary Assistant to join our close-knit, hardworking team.As a Veterinary Assistant or Veterinary Technician at Ranch Animal Hospital, you will play an integral role in delivering top-tier care to our diverse patient base. Your advanced technical expertise and hands-on experience will be essential in assisting with a wide variety of medical procedures, including routine surgeries, anesthesia administration, diagnostic imaging, and emergency interventions. Additionally, you will be expected to assist in the care of exotic animals, contributing your knowledge of specialized species to help ensure their well-being.In this dynamic position, you will work closely with veterinarians and other team members to provide excellent patient care, from pre-operative assessments to post-operative recovery. You will help maintain a calm and safe environment for both our patients and their families, fostering positive relationships with pet owners through clear communication and client education. Your skills and experience will be vital in ensuring that every patient receives not only the highest medical standard of care but also the compassion and attention they deserve.If you are passionate about veterinary medicine, have strong clinical skills, and thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, we would love to welcome you to our team at Ranch Animal Hospital. Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of the pets and families we serve.Key ResponsibilitiesPatient Care:
- Conduct thorough physical exams and patient assessments to evaluate overall health, identify conditions, and ensure early detection of issues.
- Administer prescribed medications, vaccinations, and treatments accurately, following veterinary protocols to ensure safe and effective care.
- Monitor and manage patients through all stages of care, including pre-operative, intra-operative, and post-operative, with attention to vital signs, comfort, and recovery.
- Provide immediate emergency care and first aid for critical patients, including trauma, shock, or acute illness, ensuring rapid intervention and stabilization.
Surgical Assistance:
- Assist veterinarians in preparing patients for general surgeries, including ensuring proper sterile technique, draping, and patient positioning.
- Prepare, sterilize, and maintain surgical instruments and equipment to uphold surgical asepsis and ensure smooth procedural flow.
- Perform pre-surgical assessments, such as patient history review and vital sign monitoring, and provide thorough post-operative care, including pain management and wound monitoring.
Anesthesia:
- Administer anesthesia agents, carefully monitor patients throughout the anesthesia process, and provide post-anesthesia recovery support.
- Adjust anesthetic dosages and anesthesia levels based on patient condition, surgical requirements, and veterinarian instructions to ensure patient safety.
- Document anesthesia protocols, including dosages, patient responses, and vital sign fluctuations, ensuring accurate and detailed anesthesia records.
Diagnostic and Laboratory Procedures:
- Perform diagnostic tests, including blood work, urinalysis, cytology, and parasitology, to assist in accurate diagnoses and treatment planning.
- Conduct radiographic and ultrasound imaging procedures, ensuring proper technique and accurate positioning for clear diagnostic results.
- Prepare and submit lab samples for analysis, interpret results, and communicate findings to veterinarians for treatment decisions.
Client Communication and Education:
- Communicate clearly and compassionately with clients about their pets' health, diagnoses, treatment options, and recovery plans, fostering trust and confidence.
- Provide client education on preventive care, nutrition, home treatment plans, and medication administration to promote long-term health and well-being.
- Address client concerns and inquiries with professionalism, empathy, and patience, ensuring they feel heard and informed throughout the care process.
Hospital Duties:
- Maintain a clean, well-organized, and sterile work environment, adhering to infection control protocols and ensuring a safe setting for patients and staff.
- Accurately document patient information, medical histories, treatments, and outcomes in electronic medical records to ensure continuity of care and compliance with regulations.
- Assist with inventory management, including ordering and restocking medical supplies, ensuring the clinic is always equipped to handle the full range of patient needs.
This role requires a skilled and compassionate individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating technical proficiency while maintaining a high standard of patient care and client communication. If you have a strong foundation in veterinary medicine and a passion for helping animals, we encourage you to apply.Skills, Knowledge & Expertise to be SuccessfulEducation and Experience:
- Associate's Degree or higher in Veterinary Technology from an accredited institution is preferred. Candidates with a High School Diploma or equivalent GED are required at a minimum.
- Veterinary Technician License (LVT/RVT/CVT) in the state of Florida is preferred, but not mandatory. Candidates with licensure in other states or those working toward licensure are encouraged to apply.
- A minimum of 1 year of hands-on experience as a veterinary technician in a small animal practice, with proven expertise in general surgery, anesthesia, and post-operative care.
- Experience working with exotic animals or a willingness to develop expertise in treating non-traditional pets is a plus.
Skills and Competencies:
- Proficient in performing a wide range of veterinary procedures, including diagnostics, anesthesia, surgical assistance, and routine clinical tasks such as venipuncture, catheter placement, and wound care.
- Strong working knowledge of veterinary medical and surgical protocols, including aseptic techniques, surgical preparation, and post-operative care, ensuring a high standard of patient safety and comfort.
- Excellent diagnostic and critical thinking skills, with the ability to assess patient needs, interpret lab results, and make informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to clearly and effectively communicate with veterinarians, clients, and team members, ensuring all parties are well-informed and confident in the care being provided.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment, maintaining composure during busy or emergency situations while delivering efficient and compassionate care.
Personal Attributes:
- Compassionate and patient-focused, with a genuine love for animals and a deep commitment to their well-being, always advocating for their care and comfort.
- Detail-oriented with a strong commitment to accuracy in all aspects of patient care, from medical record keeping to treatment administration and surgical assistance.
- Ability to handle challenging situations-whether it's an anxious pet owner, an urgent medical crisis, or a complex surgical procedure-with professionalism, patience, and composure, ensuring the best outcome for both the patient and their family.
The ideal candidate will be a compassionate, skilled, and proactive team player who brings expertise and a positive attitude to every aspect of veterinary care. If you are passionate about helping animals and providing high-quality care in a supportive and dynamic environment, we encourage you to apply.What We Offer
- Competitive Salary based on experience, ensuring that your skills and expertise are recognized and valued.
- Comprehensive Health Insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with additional health benefits to support your well-being.
- Retirement Plan Options with employer matching, allowing you to plan for your future while enjoying peace of mind today.
- Paid Time Off (PTO) and Holiday Pay, promoting a healthy work-life balance and time to recharge and spend with loved ones.
- Continuing Education Opportunities and Professional Development programs, providing resources to help you grow in your career, stay current with industry trends, and advance your knowledge in veterinary medicine.
- Discounted Veterinary Services and Products for your pets, ensuring that you and your family members benefit from the same high-quality care you provide to our patients.
We value the contributions of our team members and offer these benefits to ensure you feel supported both professionally and personally. If you're looking for a rewarding career with excellent compensation and opportunities for growth, we'd love to hear from you!