Veterinary Assistant U310

Summary Objective

The purpose of this position is to examine, administer medications, treat animals and perform euthanasia under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. Provide care to all domestic animals, wildlife, reptile and livestock, including but not limited to cleaning and disinfecting cages and pens and transferring animals between quarters.

This class works under close to general supervision according to set procedures but determines how or when to complete tasks.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The essential functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this class. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the class as necessary.

• Enters, codes, stores, edits and retrieves database records and files.

• Receives captured or stray animals, leads them into correct area of facility, and places and locks them into a cage or pen according to established procedures.

• Accompanies pet owners through the kennels to assist them in locating their lost animal, and completes forms to release claimed animals to their owners upon verification of ownership, current animal license and payment of fees or charges.

• Guides and educates citizens through adoptions, lost and found, euthanasia requests and surrender of animal processes by answering questions and providing technical information.

• Adjusts controls to regulate temperature and humidity of kennel facility.

• Unloads feed and supplies, and carries animals that are unable to walk.

• Explains animal treatment, animal care, housebreaking, diet, vaccinations and adoption procedures to the public.

• Performs euthanasia by injection under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.

• Feeds and waters animals, wildlife and livestock according to time schedule, diet requirements or special instruction, and records animal's medical history, diet, weight, medication and medical treatment in the database and on forms.

• Administers anesthetic agents during medical procedures and monitors the effects on anesthetized animals.

• Assists the veterinary staff with physical examinations, routine laboratory tests, medical care, treatment, surgery and in inoculating county-owned animals to prevent rabies, viruses and other animal disorders.

• Cleans and sanitizes the animal medical treatment areas, kennel cages and pens, animal transport units, holding areas, animal loading/unloading facilities and the SPOT mobile unit to control the spread of disease.

• Observes the behavior of animals, and transports animals to veterinary area for treatment or grooming, and performs or assists in behavioral assessments and euthanasia of designated animals.

• Performs and controls the crematory system including loading of animal carcasses, removal of ashes from incinerator floor, and cleaning around incinerator with antiseptic solutions.

• Performs related work as assigned.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:

• High School Graduation or GED equivalent.

• Two (2) years of customer service, animal care, animal control, animal handling, or veterinary assistance experience or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience.

OTHER MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Must be 21 years of age or older.

• Must possess EBI (Euthanasia By Injection) certification by the Kentucky Board of Veterinary Examiners or obtain within six (6) months of employment

• Must work a varied schedule.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical demands refer to the requirements for physical exertion and coordination of limb and body movement.

• Performs medium work that involves walking, standing, stooping, jumping, lifting, digging, pushing and raising objects and also involves exerting between 20 and 50 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis and 50 to 100 pounds of force on an occasional basis.

UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT)

Unavoidable hazards refer to the job conditions that may lead to injury or health hazards even though precautions have been taken.

• Involves routine and frequent exposure to:

• Bright/dim light; Dusts and pollen.

• Extreme heat and/or cold; Wet or humid conditions.

• Extreme noise levels, Animals/wildlife.

AMERICIANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT COMPLIANCE

Louisville Metro Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. ADA requires the Louisville Metro Government to provide reasonable accommodations to qualified persons with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss ADA accommodations with management.

STANDARD CLAUSES

May be required to work nights, weekends, holidays and emergencies (man-made or natural) to meet the business needs of Louisville Metro Government.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of essential functions and responsibilities that are required of an employee for this job. Other duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or be assigned at any time with or without notice.

ESSENTIAL SAFETY FUNCTIONS

It is the responsibility of each employee to comply with established policies, procedures and safe work practices. Each employee must follow safety training and instructions provided by their supervisor. Each employee must also properly wear and maintain all personal protective equipment required for their job. Finally, each employee must immediately report any unsafe work practices or unsafe conditions as well as any on-the-job injury or illnesses.

Every manager/supervisor is responsible for enforcing all safety rules and regulations. In addition, they are responsible for ensuring that a safe work environment is maintained, safe work practices are followed and employees are properly trained.