Veterinary Technician

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Indian River County

The Veterinary Technician works under the direction of the Animal Services Veterinarian, providing support in routine medical, surgical, and/or necropsy procedures. Work requires knowledge of techniques, methods, and procedures used in the care of animals which involves the use of specialized skills which are acquired through a combination of training and considerable on the job experience. Work schedule involves some weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts.

Work is performed in field, clinic, and office environments, where there are some risks and hazards due to the handling of ill and infectious animals, and exposure to offensive odors, chemicals, and other airborne nuisances but the hazards are known, somewhat predictable and mostly controllable. Operates laboratory and standard office equipment such as personal computer, two-way radio, euthanasia equipment, animal restraint equipment and cash register.

• Administers basic medical treatments under the direction of a veterinarian
• Takes vital signs of animals.
• Cleans and disinfects different areas of the shelter to ensure the health and well-being of the animal population.
• Feeds and cares for critical animals in the medical areas.
• Retrieves, restrains, and assist with medical examinations of animals.
• Utilizes and maintains laboratory equipment.
• Performs radiographs.
• Prepares, maintains, and retrieves records, reports and detailed and accurate medical histories of animals housed at facility using a personal computer.
• Maintains inventory of medications, medical equipment, medical supplies, food, cleaning, and care supplies.
• Performs euthanasia as taught by the FACA (Florida Animal Control Association) approved class and in compliance with the ACPS euthanasia protocol.
• Provides customer assistance and information concerning animals and adoption policies.
• Draws blood, prepares, and handles lab specimens and performs routine lab tests.
• Reports to work location during emergency circumstances such as actual and anticipated natural and man-made disasters.
• Operates laboratory and standard office equipment such as personal computer using word, spreadsheet, database and other related software, two-way radio, euthanasia equipment, animal restraint equipment and cash register.
• Operates a motor vehicle.

High school diploma or equivalent supplemented by two years of education and/or technical experience in animal husbandry, herd management, animal handling/care, veterinary technician, pre-med or pre-veterinary, medical, phlebotomy or laboratory technician experience.

Successfully passing the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE) may be substituted for six months of experience.

• Euthanasia Technician Certification must be obtained prior to completion of probation.
• A valid driver's license.

Knowledge of techniques, methods, and procedures used in the care of animals and maintenance of kennel facilities

Knowledge of medical terminology, abbreviations, and orders.

Knowledge of the drug names, classes, and general uses.

Knowledge of euthanasia practices and procedures.

Skill in the use of animal care equipment and materials.

Ability to draw blood, take temperature and other vitals in a low stress manner.

Ability to administer medication orally, intravenously, subcutaneously.

Ability to perform euthanasia as taught by the FACA (Florida Animal Control Association) approved class and in compliance with the ACPS euthanasia protocol.

Ability to read, comprehend, and follow written and verbal instructions in English.

Ability to make careful visual observations including clinical…