Veterinary Technician /Animal Care Specialist
The Goathouse Refuge, Inc.
Job Description
Position Summary
A compassionate and skilled veterinary technician/animal care specialist is needed to provide medical care and daily husbandry for cats and dogs in a sanctuary.
Responsibilities
Medical Care
Conduct daily health assessments and monitor animals for signs of illness, injury, or distress; report concerns promptly to Director and veterinarian.
Transport animals to receive care.
Administer medications, vaccines, treatments, and preventative care as prescribed by veterinarian.
Collect and prepare samples for testing in outside labs.
Maintain accurate medical records, treatment logs, and controlled substance documentation.
Perform physical exams and restraint using low-stress, fear-free handling techniques.
Manage wound care, including cleaning, bandaging, and monitoring healing progress.
Perform ear cleanings, grooming and other routine care procedures.
Respond to emergency situations and provide triage care as needed.
Daily Care
Monitor food intake, water consumption, elimination, and behavior, document changes and concerns.
Bathe and groom animals as needed.
Assist with animal intake, including initial health checks, parasite screening, vaccination, and documentation.
Handle cats and dogs, safely and humanely, including fearful or reactive individuals.
Communication / Collaboration
Communicate animal health status, treatment plans, and behavioral observations clearly and promptly to Director, veterinarian and staff.
Advise and educate adopters, volunteers, and visitors about animal health history, care needs, medications, and follow-up care.
Maintain organized medical supply inventory; order supplies and medications as needed.
Participate in team meetings, training, and continuing education opportunities.
Facility Support
Maintain cleanliness and organization of medical areas, treatment rooms, isolation spaces, and storage areas.
Properly dispose of medical waste, sharps, and biohazards according to safety regulations.
Qualifications
Required
High school diploma or equivalent.
At least 2 years of experience as a veterinary technician
Comfort with handling and medicating cats and dogs.
Knowledge of animal anatomy, common illnesses, animal medications, and basic veterinary procedures.
Commitment to low-stress, fear-free, and compassionate handling of animals.
Strong observational skills and ability to recognize signs of illness, injury, pain, or behavioral distress.
Ability to lift and restrain animals up to 50 pounds and work on feet for extended periods.
Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with veterinarians, staff, volunteers, and the public. Ability to communicate with Director and coworkers is very important.
Preferred
Current Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) or Licensed Veterinary Technician (LVT) credential preferred, OR significant hands-on experience administering veterinary care and medications to cats and dogs. On the job training is available.
Veterinary technician experience in an animal shelter.
Experience with wound management and species-specific handling.
Knowledge of shelter medicine protocols, disease prevention, and population management.
CPR and first aid certification for animals.
Work Schedule / Conditions
Full-time schedule preferred with some weekends and holidays required based on animal care needs.
Work is performed in cat rooms, treatment rooms, and outdoor areas with exposure to animal dander, parasites, cleaning chemicals, bodily fluids, and waste.
Subject to animal bites, scratches, and physical demands of restraining animals of various sizes and temperaments.
Must pass background check.
The Goathouse Refuge, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer.
This is a full time job
Contact Information
Job Contact Details
Closing Date: Thursday, October 1, 2026
Posting Date:
Closing Date:
