Shelter Veterinary Assistant & Animal Care

The Lost Dogs Home; Melbourne; On-site; AUD 42,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

The Lost Dogs Home in Melbourne is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support the Veterinary Team with animal handling, daily husbandry tasks, and preparation of exam rooms, surgical and treatment areas.

You will work alongside experienced vets and nurses to help improve animal welfare, handle intake, and contribute to a safe, organised hospital and shelter environment.

This role offers a hands-on opportunity to develop skills, with weekend/public holiday work as required.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of animal husbandry, behaviour, and handling.
• Experience handling animals in an animal shelter, kennel, or cattery environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to engage with internal and external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Capacity to remain resilient in a challenging environment, including exposure to behavioural euthanasia.
• Strong initiative and ability to anticipate the needs of the veterinary team.
• A structured approach to tasks, with strong attention to detail and adherence to processes.

Responsibilities

• Assist in moving animals between housing areas and treatment rooms.
• Undertake general husbandry tasks, including feeding, cleaning, and enrichment activities.
• Support veterinarians and nurses by preparing exam rooms, surgical and treatment areas.
• Perform basic grooming and hygiene tasks for animals, such as nail clipping and coat maintenance.
• Maintain the cleanliness and organisation of veterinary resources, stock, and equipment.
• Ensure accurate administrative documentation and records for veterinary procedures.
• Update Sheltermate records as directed by veterinary staff.
• Comply with workplace health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe environment for animals, staff, and visitors.
• Occasionally travel to other LDH shelter facilities as required.
• Work weekends and public holidays as required.

Job description

The Lost Dogs Home in Melbourne is seeking a Veterinary Assistant to support the Veterinary Team with animal handling, daily husbandry tasks, and preparation of exam rooms, surgical and treatment areas.

You will work alongside experienced vets and nurses to help improve animal welfare, handle intake, and contribute to a safe, organised hospital and shelter environment.

This role offers a hands-on opportunity to develop skills, with weekend/public holiday work as required.