Veterinary Assistant Training Program

Overview

Bulger Veterinary Hospital is looking for talented individuals eager to jump-start their careers in the animal health field. We are offering entry-level, full-time positions that include a 24-month paid training program providing an introduction to the veterinary field, the ability to obtain a credential as an Approved Veterinary Assistant and the opportunity to begin developing basic technical/nursing skills.

This position does not require any previous veterinary hospital or animal experience. You will be enrolled in and required to complete Vet Bloom’s Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA) program, which includes a blended curriculum of online and hands-on training designed to prepare you to sit for a national credentialing exam administered by Vet Med Team  and overseen by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

After obtaining a passing score on this exam, you will receive the credential of Approved Veterinary Assistant (AVA).

After completing the 6-month AVA program, you will continue to the Next Step Veterinary Program.

• Starting at $15.75 per hour.
• Your compensation will increase by $1 per hour within 30 days of passing the AVA exam.

• Combination of morning, afternoon, and evening shifts required. VA’s must participate in holiday coverage up to 3 holidays annually.

The primary responsibility of the Veterinary Assistant is to provide support and assistance to the veterinary medical staff. The Veterinary Assistant must embody the culture of treating every client and colleague with the utmost courteous and attentive treatment possible, with a keen sensitivity to the emotional bond between owners and their pets.

• Maintain a safe and clean work environment, including but not limited to the cleanliness of laundry, floors, and cages.
• Assist with basic animal restraint.
• Provide basic animal husbandry and hygiene between patients.
• Perform basic record-keeping procedures.
• Ensure proper stocking of medical supplies and janitorial needs.
• Essential job functions include walking, standing, bending, lifting up to 50 pounds, writing, hearing, seeing, speaking, and sitting.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; candidates from vocational co-op programs will also be considered.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English is required.
• Knowledge and practical application of basic arithmetic, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, is required.
• We are seeking individuals who have strong emotional competencies; those that are self-aware, have infectious positive attitudes, authenticity, and caring toward others.

This is an 18-month advanced training program designed to elevate you from a Level 2 Veterinary Assistant to a Level 1 Veterinary Technician within Ethos Veterinary Health.

• Perform nail trims, suture removals, and subcutaneous fluid administration.
• Administer oral, IM, SQ, and IV medications.
• Place IV catheters and conduct venipuncture for various sites (Cephalic, Saphenous, Medial Saphenous, Jugular).
• Assist with surgical prep and suite preparation, including anesthesia machine setup.
• Conduct basic patient assessments and monitor vital signs.

• Clean and wrap surgical instruments.
• Prepare surgical packs and assist with the setup of the surgical suite.
• Maintain sterility through proper gloving techniques.
• Assist in surgical procedures and provide postoperative care.

• Perform ear cytology and basic diagnostic tests.
• Operate blood analyzing equipment (Heska) and perform routine bloodwork analysis.
• Conduct tonometry and assist in ophthalmologic evaluations.
• Understand and implement radiation safety protocols during imaging procedures.

• Communicate effectively with clients, providing clear instructions on patient discharge and care.
• Maintain professional conduct and hygiene practices within the hospital setting.
• Manage medical records accurately and maintain proper medical waste disposal practices.

• Develop a thorough understanding of animal anatomy, common diseases (digestive, urinary, endocrine, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems), and pharmacology.
• Handle aggressive or compromised patients using appropriate restraint techniques.

This comprehensive 24-month journey will equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel as a veterinary professional.

Upon completing the 24-month training program at Bulger Veterinary Hospital, your employment will end. However, you will have the opportunity to apply for positions at any Ethos hospital, including Bulger, as a Level 1 Veterinary Technician, contingent upon the successful completion of the program and passing all required assessments.

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