ANIMAL VETERINARY TECHNICIAN

Summary

Under general supervision, is responsible for performing complex technical work assisting a veterinarian in the medical care of animals in the County Animal Care Program.

Treats animals impounded at the Animal Care Facility as directed by the Veterinarians. Working conditions are in a kennel environment with frequent exposure to laboratory conditions including hazardous materials, unfavorable fumes and odors, and working with animal body fluids and infectious diseases.

Exercises no supervision.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assists Veterinarian in restraining animals, for clinical examination.
• Lifts and carries animals weighing up to 50 pounds to secure in cages or place on examination tables, and assists with team lifts for animals weighing over 50 pounds.
• Performs emergency first aid.
• Screens animals for sterilization surgery and draws blood samples to examine for filariases, anemia, etc.
• Collects fecal samples and examines them for endoparasites.
• Bathes, dips, and dries animals.
• Prepares, sterilizes, and maintains surgical packs.
• Schedules surgeries.
• Sedates, undulates, and assists in applying anesthesia; maintains anesthesia; clips, shaves, and disinfects the area for incision;

and assists in surgery.

• Monitors animal recovery from anesthesia.
• Scrubs and disinfects instruments prior to sterilization.
• Examines animal before discharge and advises owner on post-surgical care of animal.
• Assists in the training of personnel on basic responsibilities and animal handling.
• Maintains an inventory of medical supplies.
• May assist with offsite events.
• Will receive incoming animals from animal control officers and complete all necessary paperwork, and prepare the animals for vaccination and any other requirements to vet the animal.
• Performs related duties and fulfills responsibilities as required.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent (recognized by the Texas Education Agency or a regional accrediting agency).
• One (1) year of animal health care assisting a veterinarian, animal control or animal care experience.
• Valid Class 'C' Texas Driver's License.
• Knowledge of basic animal health procedures and practices.
• Knowledge of animal anatomy and basic surgical techniques.
• Knowledge of methods and procedures of animal care.
• Knowledge of safety procedures and techniques used in dealing with animals and laboratory samples.
• Knowledge of all the tools and instruments used in veterinary medicine.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
• Ability to perform basic examinations of animals.
• Ability to handle animals under all types of conditions and situations.
• Ability to perform injections.
• Ability to perform all the physical requirements of the position, with or without accommodations
• Must secure and maintain a favorable background investigation and clearance
• Must clear a pre-employment physical and a pre-employment drug screen test

Working Environment and Physical Demands :

• Exposure to animals of unknown temperament and background
• Frequently moves items weighing up to 10-50 pounds
• Occasionally moves items weighing up to 60-100 pounds
• Occasionally moves about the office
• Frequently communicates with others; must be able to exchange accurate information
• Constantly operates a computer and other office productivity machinery
• Positions self to perform essential functions
• Must be able to remain in a stationary position
• Must be able to perform all physical requirements of the position

Supplemental Information

Workstations with internet access are available, if needed, to view job postings and apply online at 211 S Flores, San Antonio, TX 78204, 8am - 5pm, Monday through Friday. Phone : 210-335-2545.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Bexar County is an Equal Opportunity Employer and committed to Workplace Diversity.

We are committed to providing equal opportunity for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.