Veterinary AssistantSalems Sanctuary Veterinary HospitalVeterinary Assistants are the backbone of our hospital. They ensure that every patient moves safely and efficiently through surgery, recovery, and dischargewhile maintaining the highest standards of care and compassion.This is a fast-paced, high-volume environment focused on spay/neuter, dentals, and essential veterinary care. Assistants play a hands-on role in nearly every part of the process, from intake to recovery, and are critical to both patient outcomes and clinic efficiency.We are looking for individuals who are:calm under pressuredetail-orientedcompassionate with animalsteam-driven and proactivePosition SummaryThe Veterinary Assistant supports veterinarians and the clinical team by:preparing patients for surgeryassisting during proceduresmonitoring anesthesia and recoverymaintaining a clean, safe, and efficient clinic environmentThis role requires both technical skill and strong situational awareness, especially in a high-volume surgical setting.Core ResponsibilitiesPatient Intake & PreparationCheck in patients and verify services (surgery type, vaccines, add-ons)Weigh animals and confirm accurate recordsPrepare surgical paperwork and labelsAssist with handling, restraint, and minimizing stressIdentify any visible health concerns and escalate appropriatelyPre-Surgical SupportPrepare surgical and anesthesia suppliesDraw up medications under veterinarian guidancePlace or assist with IV catheter placement (based on skill level)Assist with induction and patient positioningEnsure proper identification and surgical readiness for each patientSurgical AssistanceMaintain sterile field and surgical setupPass instruments and assist the veterinarian as neededMonitor anesthesia (heart rate, respiration, temperature, reflexes)Adjust equipment and communicate changes in patient status immediatelyRecovery & Post-Operative CareMonitor patients continuously during recoveryTrack vital signs and ensure safe wake-upProvide warmth and comfort (heating support, positioning)Identify and respond to complications or delayed recoveryAdminister post-op medications as directedClinic Operations & SanitationClean and sterilize surgical instruments and packsMaintain surgical suite cleanliness and organizationRestock supplies and prepare for upcoming proceduresFollow all safety, sanitation, and infection control protocolsDischarge SupportPrepare patients for dischargeEnsure correct medications and instructions are readyAssist in communicating basic post-op care instructions to clientsHigh-Volume ExpectationsThis role is designed for a high-efficiency clinic model, which means:Assisting with 2040+ surgeries per day (cats) or 1016 (dogs)Maintaining speed without compromising safetyStaying organized across multiple patients simultaneouslyAnticipating needs before being askedKey Skills & CompetenciesTechnical SkillsAnimal handling and restraintBasic understanding of anesthesia and monitoringFamiliarity with surgical instruments and sterile techniqueMedication preparation and administration (as permitted)Operational SkillsTime management in a fast-paced environmentAbility to multitask across multiple patientsStrong attention to detail and accuracyCleanliness and organizationSoft SkillsCalm, steady presence under pressureStrong communication with team membersCompassion for animals of all temperaments (including feral/fractious)Willingness to learn and improve continuouslyGrowth & Advancement OpportunitiesVeterinary Assistants can grow into higher-level roles by developing skills in:Advanced anesthesia monitoringSurgical assistance and instrument handlingDental procedures and radiographsTraining and mentoring new team membersWe believe in creating a clear path for skill development and increased responsibility over time.Why This Role MattersEvery assistant directly impacts:patient safetysurgical outcomesclinic efficiencythe number of animals we can helpThis role is not just supportit is mission-critical to reducing suffering and expanding access to care in our community.
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