Shelter Veterinary Assistant - High-Volume Care & Surgery

Joybound People & Pets; Walnut Creek (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Joybound People and Pets seeks an experienced Veterinary Assistant to support a high-volume shelter and client-owned animal care program. Under a veterinarian, you will assist with anesthesia, surgeries, exams and nursing care, and maintain detailed medical records across cloud systems.

You will also lead in intake assessments, communicate with clients, help with invoicing, and ensure compassionate handling of animals. A strong background in shelter medicine and teamwork is essential.

Qualifications

• Minimum of three (3) years experience working in the veterinary field.
• Experience in an animal shelter and high-volume, high-quality spay/neuter preferred.
• Proficiency in preventive, diagnostic and therapeutic veterinary treatments.
• Ability to lead volunteers and communicate with clients respectfully.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Under the supervision of a veterinarian, administer and monitor anesthesia and assist in surgeries.
• Perform diagnostic testing including imaging and in-house labs.
• Assist in managing health of shelter population through rounds, preventive care, and monitoring.
• Intubate, monitor and recover animals for spay/neuter and other surgeries as appropriate.
• Maintain detailed patient records across cloud-based systems and communicate findings to veterinarian.
• Provide client communication, invoicing assistance and share medical records with clients and vets.

Education

Associate in Science Degree

VACSP license for Veterinary Assistant candidates

AV A or CVA certification preferred

Euthanasia Certified candidates preferred

Minimum of three (3) years experience in veterinary field

Job description

Joybound People and Pets seeks an experienced Veterinary Assistant to support a high-volume shelter and client-owned animal care program. Under a veterinarian, you will assist with anesthesia, surgeries, exams and nursing care, and maintain detailed medical records across cloud systems.

You will also lead in intake assessments, communicate with clients, help with invoicing, and ensure compassionate handling of animals. A strong background in shelter medicine and teamwork is essential.