Veterinary Assistant

We are seeking a compassionate and detail-oriented Veterinary Assistant to join our team at the ASPCA Adoption Center. As a key member of our medical team, you will provide high-quality care to animals in need, working closely with veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians to ensure the best possible outcomes.

• Provide compassionate care and assistance to animals, including examinations, treatments, and monitoring
• Assist veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with medical procedures, including sedated examinations and minor procedures
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry to animal medical records, including transfer of information from other ASPCA departments and diagnostic test results
• Prepare samples for submission to in-house or outside laboratories and follow up as needed
• Handle and restrain animals for medical procedures, utilizing low-stress handling techniques
• Support euthanasia procedures under the supervision of staff veterinarians
• Assist with and/or perform humane euthanasia under the supervision of staff veterinarians
• Identify animals in need of grooming and request or complete bathing and grooming procedures as needed
• Transport animals and their medical records within ASPCA departments for necessary care
• Update animal statuses in Adoption Center electronic medical records when necessary
• Communicate with team members, volunteers, and the public regarding animal health status and care

• Knowledge of basic animal care, handling, and disease recognition
• Familiarity with veterinary hospital protocols and procedures
• Able to understand and communicate using veterinary medical terminology
• Experience and knowledge of low-stress animal handling and restraint techniques
• Possess customer service skills to interact with fosters and adopters
• Able to quickly adjust focus and shift priorities based on Adoption Center and patient needs
• Strong organizational skills and a high level of attention to detail
• Able to maintain open mind regarding changes and be willing to learn, implement, and teach new protocols
• Ensure and maintain high-quality standard of care, work ethic, and performance
• Work efficiently and calmly under challenging conditions
• Communicate with team members successfully and courteously during in-person, phone, and email conversations
• Exhibit professionalism with stressful, time-sensitive, and urgent situations
• Basic computer skills, including Excel, Microsoft Office, and email; familiarity with PetPoint or other shelter software systems a plus
• Able to lift up to 40 pounds, walk, bend, stand, and reach constantly throughout at least a minimum 8-hour work day

The starting pay rate for this role is $24.00 and falls under a collective bargaining agreement. For more information on our Benefit offerings, click here.

English (Required)

High School Diploma (Required)

Eligible for certification as a euthanasia technician in New York State

Experience working in an animal shelter preferred

Fear Free certified or obtained within 60 days of employment

Minimum of 2 years prior animal handling/veterinary experience

VECCS Recover CPR Certification obtained within 90 days of hire