Job Description

Veterinary Assistant – Full-Time

Cat and Dog Hospital of Portland

Cat and Dog Hospital of Portland is seeking a caring, dependable, and dedicated Veterinary Assistant to join our team full-time. Responsibilities include assisting veterinarians and veterinary technicians with patient care, maintaining a clean and organized hospital environment, and providing exceptional customer service. The ideal candidate will be able to stay focused in a fast-paced setting, multitask effectively, and communicate professionally and compassionately with clients.

Cat and Dog Hospital of Portland is a compassionate, Feline-Friendly and Fear Free hospital with a bright, modern facility in the heart of SE Portland Sellwood neighborhood. Our close-knit team relies on strong communication, teamwork, hard work, and reliability to provide the best possible care. We are looking for someone who takes pride in their work and is committed to creating a safe, welcoming, and comfortable experience for our patients and their people.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a veterinary hospital is preferred.
• Familiarity with Cornerstone veterinary software is a plus.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to multitask in a busy environment.
• A compassionate, team-oriented attitude and a strong sense of responsibility.
• Kind and supportive of your team members.

Compensation and Benefits:

Wages are based on experience. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off for full-time employees, paid holidays, and a 401(k)-retirement plan.

If you are passionate about animal care and enjoy working as part of a supportive, dedicated team, we would love to hear from you!

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Veterinary Assistant supports and assists the Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians, ensuring the safety of pets and clients, and the continuity of quality veterinary care. They work to keep pets safe and comfortable during their visit.

WHAT YOU’LL DO (Essential Functions):

• Foster a culture built on our values: Respect, Learning, Do the Right Thing, WOW Service, and Fun
• Clean, disinfect, and prepare exam rooms, medical equipment, and surgery between each appointment
• Obtain initial patient information, medical histories, vaccination records, and the reason for the pet’s visit. Document patient information, and update records
• Calm, soothe, comfort, and restrain pets before, during, and after procedures
• Take note on examination results and updates records as directed by veterinarians
• Provide the owners education, resources and information on how best to care for pets in general, at the Veterinarian’s direction, for specific conditions, and after various procedures
• Monitor and track pet’s physical status and vital signs following surgery
• Monitor, record, and report the physical condition and vital signs of the hospitalized and boarded pets
• Clean and disinfect cages, pens, runs, and boarding areas
• Feed, water, bathe, and exercise pets during their visit
• Respond to general questions from clients
• Perform and set up procedures that do not require Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician assistance
• May administer medication, perform routine laboratory tests, fill prescriptions, and educate client on use and side effects of medication under the direction of a Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician
• Provide professional, efficient, quality care and exceptional service to clients while maintaining maximum productivity
• Support a practice environment that promotes collaboration and teamwork and ensures the delivery of quality, compassionate, effective, and efficient health care to pets
• Comply with all practice policies, quality assurance guidelines, and minimum standards of care
• Perform other duties as requested

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR (Essential Qualifications):

Education

• High School Diploma or GED required

Professional Licenses/Certifications:

• Certificate of completion from a NAVTA-approved Veterinary Assistant program preferred

Experience:

• One year of experience in a pet care is preffered.

Preferred Skills, Ability and Knowledge:

• Broad knowledge of animal science
• Basic knowledge of pharmacology
• Proficiency with a variety of computer programs including Microsoft Outlook, Word and industry internet sites
• Basic written, verbal, and active listening communication skills with a customer-oriented approach
• Basic mathematical skills to ensure the administration of accurate drug and fluid doses
• Basic analytical, critical thinking, judgement, and problem-solving skills
• Compassion and empathy for both pets and pet owners
• Interact with a variety of clients and employees in a professional, caring, compassionate, and tactful manner
• Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy
• Strong organizational and time management skills, including managing multiple priorities
• Handle and maintain sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Maintain a calm demeanor in a work environment that fluctuates from orderly to fast paced and stressful

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

While performing the duties of this job, the team member is regularly required to talk and hear. The team member must frequently use a computer for long periods of time. Specific vision abilities are required to do this job including close vision. This position requires walking, standing, and sitting for long periods of time. May be exposed to low to moderate noise levels as well as disinfectant/sanitation chemicals, pet dander, and excretions. May experience aggressive, frightened, abused or injured pets that bite and scratch. This position requires exerting up to 30 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds frequently, and/or 10 pounds constantly in order to lift, carry, pull or move objects. Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position does not have direct supervisory responsibilities

ABOUT LAKEFIELD VETERINARY GROUP

We believe exceptional veterinary care starts with exceptional people.

We partner with hospitals across the country to preserve what makes each practice special - its people, culture, and connection to community - while providing the operational support and resources that allow teams to thrive.

As we grow, we are committed to creating an environment where team members feel respected, supported, and empowered to deliver outstanding care.

Our Values

Our culture is built on five core values that guide how we work and serve:

• Respect
• Learning
• Do the Right Thing
• Wow Service
• Fun

If these resonate with you, you’ll fit right in.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Lakefield Veterinary Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members and applicants.