Job Details

About the Organization

Liberty Dogs™ is a premier service dog training program whose goal is to empower Veterans with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives - enhancing their well-being through the unconditional support that Liberty Service Dogs™ provides. Located on a 27-acre campus, it includes a training facility, dog housing, an administrative and multipurpose building, and accommodations for Veterans staying on campus to train with their Liberty Service Dogs™.

Position Summary

The experienced Veterinary Assistant plays a crucial role in the daily operations of our clinic. This position works closely with our veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians (LVTs) to ensure a smooth workflow and provide the highest standard of care to our patients and their owners. The ideal candidate will have a strong foundation in veterinary procedures, excellent communication skills, and a genuine passion for animal welfare.

Key Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry & Cleaning:

• Thoroughly clean and disinfect all dog kennels, runs, and common areas daily, following established disease control protocols.
• Provide fresh food and water to all dogs according to feeding schedules and dietary needs.
• Wash and sanitize food and water bowls, laundry (bedding, towels), and other shelter equipment.
• Ensure all animals have appropriate bedding and toys.
• Perform deep cleaning of vacated enclosures.

Patient Care:

• Assisting veterinarians and LVTs with patient examinations, treatments, and surgical procedures.
• Restraining animals in a safe, compassionate, and effective manner for various procedures (e.g., blood draws, vaccinations, catheter placement).
• Monitoring and caring for hospitalized patients, including feeding, walking, and administering medications as directed.
• Providing post-operative care and monitoring surgical patients.
• Maintaining accurate and detailed patient records.

Client Communication:

• Greeting clients and their pets in a friendly and professional manner.
• Scheduling appointments and managing client flow.

Clinic Operations & Maintenance:

• Preparing and sterilizing surgical instruments and equipment.
• Maintaining a clean, sanitary, and organized work environment, including exam rooms, treatment areas, and kennels.
• Restocking supplies and managing inventory.
• Performing basic laboratory procedures (e.g., running blood work, preparing samples for outside labs).
• Assisting with radiology, including positioning patients and developing radiographs.

Record Keeping & Communication:

• Maintain accurate and timely records of feeding, medication administration, observations (health and behavior), and animal movements within the shelter management system.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers, volunteers, and the public regarding animal care and behavior.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., adoptions, medical, behavior team) to ensure seamless animal care and flow.

Shelter Operations:

• Assist with the intake and release of animals as directed.
• Monitor and restock supplies, notifying appropriate personnel when supplies are needed.
• Perform general cleaning and maintenance tasks throughout the facility.
• Provide courteous assistance to volunteers and other staff members.
• Adhere to all policies, procedures, and protocols.

Position Requirements, Skills & Qualifications

• Candidates must successfully pass a background check, possess a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Attention to small and large details
• Proficiency in office software Microsoft Office
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent. Additional education in animal care, veterinary assisting, or a related field is a plus.
• Experience: Previous experience in animal care, veterinary clinic work, or volunteering with animals (especially dogs) is highly preferred.

• Skills & Abilities:
  • Strong love and compassion for animals, with a commitment to their welfare.
  • Excellent animal handling skills, with the ability to manage a variety of dog temperaments, including those that may be fearful or exhibit challenging behaviors.
  • Ability to learn and apply knowledge of common canine diseases, their symptoms, and means of transmission.
  • Attention to detail for observing animal health and behavior and maintaining accurate records.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and the public.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Patience, empathy, and the ability to remain calm and professional in potentially stressful situations.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and schedules.
  • Basic computer skills for record-keeping.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift and carry materials and animals weighing up to 40 lbs. regularly and assist with larger animals (up to 90 lbs.).
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and twist for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions of legs, arms, and hands.
• Comfort working in an environment with potential exposure to unpleasant odors, noises, animal waste, and the risk of bites or scratches.
• Must not have allergic conditions that would be aggravated by working with animals.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.