Shelter Veterinary Technician (LVMT)

Petworks Animal Services

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY
The Veterinary Technician provides compassionate and high-quality veterinary care for animals at Petworks Animal Services under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.

WORKING RELATIONSHIPS
Reports to the Director of Behavior and Welfare. Works closely with veterinarians, the Director of Operations, animal control, and animal care staff.

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
● Assist the supervising veterinarian with caring for shelter pets’ veterinary needs, including examinations, diagnostics, treatments and other related tasks.
● Provide patient care including Fear Free restraint, vaccinations, venipuncture, fluid administration, urinalyses, fecal floats, and other treatments and diagnostics as directed by the veterinarian.
● Fill prescriptions, measure medications and label containers.
● Carefully monitor animal conditions and symptoms, including animals recovering from surgery, illness or injury.
● Maintain detailed and accurate records, including controlled drug logs, animal medical histories, and individual license and CE records.
● Collaborate with the Behavior and Welfare Director and the supervising veterinarian to prioritize, schedule and complete medical tasks.
● Participate in shelter rounds and program development as requested by the Director of Operations and the Director of Behavior and Welfare.
● Assist with surgical procedures, including anesthetic prep, induction/intubation, monitoring, and recovery.
● Clean and sterilize instruments, equipment, and materials.
● Use PPE appropriately and help ensure proper use by all teams throughout the shelter.
● Coordinate outside veterinary care as needed and transport animals to appointments.
● Administer emergency first aid, such as performing emergency resuscitation or other lifesaving procedures per RECOVER guidelines.
● Serve as a patient advocate by recognizing signs of illness, injury, and/or poor medical welfare; document and communicate this information to the supervising veterinarian.
● Perform humane euthanasia as a Certified Animal Euthanasia Technician (CAET) according to Petworks’ policies when a live outcome is not possible, safe, or humane.

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

● Possess or be eligible for a TN Veterinary Medical Technician license.
● One (1) year as a credentialed veterinary technician strongly preferred.
● Fear Free Veterinary Professional certification and animal shelter experience strongly preferred.
● A commitment to humane and low-stress animal handling and care is required.
● Must have a valid Tennessee driver’s license and a clean driving history.
● Compassionate and professional communication skills are required for in-person, telephone, and online communications with staff, volunteers, other agencies, and community members.

This is a part time job