Shelter Veterinary Technician

Rescue Village has a proven track record of providing employee satisfaction, with high employee-retention rates in a fun, family-friendly environment.

Under the direction and supervision of the Director of Veterinary Medical and Behavioral Services, performs essential clinical duties caring for animals in the custody of Rescue Village.

Responsible for ensuring that high quality medical care is provided to all animals at Rescue Village in a humane and professional manner, according to RV medical protocols, mission, and core values.

Essential Job Functions:

• Provides optimal care to all animals within the Rescue Village organization
  • Administers daily medications to animals as directed by veterinarian
  • Provides daily care and feeding of hospitalized animals
  • Practices proper and effective Fear Free® animal handling always being mindful of human and animal safety
  • Performs safe triage evaluation and intake exams of animals upon presentation to the shelter according to Rescue Village admission protocols.
  • Vaccinates, implants microchips, administers oral and topical medications according to RV medical protocols.
  • Accurately enters exam findings and behavioral data points in patient electronic medical record software.
  • Provides excellent veterinary service to support the efficient performance of the Shelter Department, including intake, foster, and shelter husbandry.
  • Under veterinary supervision, performs routine recheck evaluations of convalescent foster care animals
  • Maintains prompt and direct communication with staff veterinarians regarding medical needs for any animal within the RV system
  • Utilizes electronic medical record system effectively to make sure that all animals in shelter and in foster care stay current on vaccination and preventive medicine schedules according to RV medical protocols
  • Maintains an accurate inventory of all intake supplies and restocks supplies as necessary; notifies Clinic Manager if supplies need to be ordered
  • Assists with biological sample collection, preparation and submission as well as basic in house laboratory testing
  • Labels and dispenses patient medications under veterinary supervision
  • Prepares patients for surgery
  • Directly monitors animals during surgery and surgical recovery
  • Cleans and prepares surgical instrument packs
  • Follows cleaning and disease control protocols in all areas of shelter
  • Keeps clean and orderly workspaces at all times
  • Serves as a liaison between Shelter/animal care departments and clinic
  • Supports other RV staff members in the care and medical/behavioral needs of animals
  • Educates staff and public about preventive care, infectious disease prevention/control and general medical needs of our patients
  • Other duties as assigned by the Director of Veterinary Services that relate to clinic function and animal care and/or the Executive Director that relate to Rescue Village business.
• Provides professional client, staff and volunteer care
  • Represents Rescue Village in a professional and courteous manner at all times;
  • Provides quality service to customers, volunteers, and staff recognizing their individual contributions to the success of our organization
  • Works with other Rescue Village teammates, departments, and members of the public effectively, courteously, and professionally at all times
  • Refers clients to appropriate staff for service
  • Serves as an educational resource for clients, staff and volunteers
• Qualifications:
  • Current RVT license required
  • Experience in an animal shelter setting strongly preferred
  • Experience in medical record keeping and using appropriate veterinary medical terminology
  • Basic computer skills using Windows software
  • Must be able to pass a background check
• Knowledge, Skill and Abilities Needed to Perform the Essential Functions of this Position:
  • Strong animal handling and clinical skills
  • Works well with others in a fast-paced environment
  • Knowledge of breeds, diseases, medical conditions, animal handling and behavior
  • Professional, team player with a “can do” attitude who is willing to learn and to be flexible under sometimes stressful circumstances
  • Ability to take direction and problem solve
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills with outstanding attention to detail
  • Organized with excellent time management skills; able to multitask effectively with an appropriate amount of independence
  • Acquire and possess a thorough understanding of, and dedication to, animal welfare issues and policies of Rescue Village
  • Ability to work independently and confidently, using superior discretion and judgment.
  • Must be able to work some holidays
• Competitive compensation and benefits including paid time off, paid holidays, license reimbursement, continuing education, 401K with match, medical/dental/vision/disability/life insurance