Veterinarian Assistant

Dutchess County SPCA, Inc; Town of Hyde Park (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

Dutchess County SPCA, Inc in Hyde Park, NY is looking for a dedicated Veterinary Assistant. In this full-time position, you will assist Veterinarians with surgeries, exams, and daily care, while ensuring the well-being of the animals.

The ideal candidate has a minimum of 2 years in animal medical care and is comfortable handling diverse animal temperaments. Join our mission-driven team focused on saving lives and providing excellent animal care.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of experience in animal medical care, shelter experience preferred.
• Comfortable handling animals of unknown or difficult temperament.
• Reliable and self‑directed with strong communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Assist with exams, surgeries, and immunizations.
• Administer medications and maintain sanitary conditions.
• Provide excellent customer service to adopters and volunteers.

Skills

Animal medical care experience

Customer service skills

Communication skills

Tools

Veterinarian software

Google Workspace

Job description

About the Role As a Veterinary Assistant, you’ll work closely with our Veterinarians and Licensed Veterinary Technicians to ensure the health and well‑being of animals in our care. From assisting with surgeries and daily rounds to administering medications and educating adopters, this is a dynamic and hands‑on role perfect for someone with a heart for animals.

Full‑time

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with exams, dental procedures, surgeries, and immunizations
• Restrain animals for medical procedures
• Administer oral, topical, and injectable medications
• Maintain clean, sanitary conditions in medical and shelter areas
• Prepare prescriptions and perform routine lab work
• Update treatment records in the shelter and veterinarian database
• Provide excellent customer service to adopters, fosters, and volunteers
• Support with inventory, restocking, and clerical tasks

What We’re Looking For

• Minimum 2 years of experience in animal medical care (shelter experience preferred)
• Comfortable handling animals of unknown or difficult temperament
• Familiarity with common companion animal diseases and treatment protocols
• Professional, compassionate, and team‑oriented
• Able to recognize and report medical or behavioral issues
• Reliable and self‑directed, with strong communication skills

Technical & Physical Requirements

• Familiarity with veterinarian and shelter management software and Google Workspace
• Able to lift up to 50 lbs and push up to 150 lbs regularly
• Comfortable standing, bending, and walking for extended periods
• Willingness to work with potential allergens

Why Work With Us?

At Dutchess County SPCA, you’ll join a mission‑driven team committed to the welfare of animals. This is more than just a job—it’s a chance to help save lives every day.

Location

Hyde Park, NY

Schedule

Our shelter operates from 8 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week (including holidays) to ensure animals receive daily care. Flexible availability is needed.

Compensation

Commensurate with experience