Veterinary Technician Job Duties
Job Overview
A Veterinary Technician provides essential support to veterinarians by performing various medical and technical tasks to ensure the health and well-being of animals. They play a critical role in animal care, diagnostics, treatment, and client communication.
Animal Care
- Patient Restraint and Handling : Safely restrain animals during examinations and procedures.
- Feeding and Nutrition : Assist with feeding schedules and provide nutritional support as directed by the veterinarian.
- Hygiene and Cleanliness : Maintain clean and sanitary conditions in the clinic, including kennels, examination rooms, and surgical areas.
- Exercise and Enrichment : Ensure animals receive proper exercise and enrichment activities during their stay at the clinic.
Medical Assistance
Examinations : Assist veterinarians during physical examinations by preparing animals and necessary equipment.Diagnostics : Collect samples (blood, urine, feces, etc.) for laboratory testing and perform diagnostic tests (radiographs, ultrasounds, etc.).Medications : Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian.Anesthesia : Prepare and monitor animals undergoing anesthesia for surgery or other procedures.Surgical Assistance
Preparation : Prepare animals and surgical equipment for procedures.Monitoring : Monitor animals’ vital signs during surgery and recovery.Post-operative Care : Provide post-operative care, including wound management and pain relief.Emergency Care
Triage : Assist in the triage of emergency cases, assessing and prioritizing based on the severity of the condition.First Aid : Provide immediate first aid and stabilization for emergency patients.Laboratory Work
Sample Processing : Prepare and process laboratory samples for analysis.Record Keeping : Maintain accurate records of laboratory results and report findings to the veterinarian.Client Communication
Education : Educate clients on animal care, nutrition, and preventative health measures.Instructions : Provide clear instructions for home care and medication administration.Follow-ups : Conduct follow-up calls to check on the progress of patients and answer any questions clients may have.Administrative Duties
Record Management : Maintain detailed and accurate patient records, including medical histories and treatment plans.Inventory : Manage inventory of medical supplies and equipment, ensuring they are stocked and in good condition.Appointments : Assist in scheduling and managing appointments and clinic operations.Additional Duties
Continuing Education : Stay updated on the latest veterinary practices and technologies through continuing education and training.Team Collaboration : Work collaboratively with veterinarians, other veterinary technicians, and support staff to provide the highest standard of care.Compliance : Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations related to veterinary medicine.Skills and Qualifications
Education : Associate's degree in Veterinary Technology or a related field.Certification : Certification as a Veterinary Technician (CVT, LVT, RVT).Experience : Previous experience in a veterinary clinic or hospital setting preferred.Skills : Strong technical skills, attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure.Physical Requirements : Ability to lift and restrain animals, stand for extended periods, and perform repetitive tasks.