Veterinary Assistant

Veterinary Assistant 3.3 3.3 out of 5 stars Ashtabula, OH 44004 $13

• $14 an hour
• Full-time Ashtabula County Animal Protective League 3 reviews $13
• $14 an hour

•

Full-time Job Description Title:

Veterinary Assistant Class:

Hourly Revised:

April 20, 2026

Reports To:

Veterinary Technician, Shelter Veterinarian, and Shelter Director

JOB OVERVIEW

The Veterinary Assistant supports the daily operations of the shelter's medical department by providing essential animal care, operational, and administrative assistance. This position plays a key role in ensuring the clinic runs efficiently, allowing the Veterinarian and Veterinary Technician to focus on medical and surgical care. Responsibilities include animal intake processing, assisting with routine medical tasks, administering vaccines and medications as directed, maintaining cleanliness and organization of medical spaces, managing medical supplies and medications inventory and placing orders, coordinating medical logistics such as scheduling and transport, and ensuring accurate and timely recordkeeping. All medical tasks are performed under the direction of the shelter's licensed Veterinarian and/or Veterinary Technician in accordance with established protocols and applicable state regulations.

VISION:

To support the delivery of efficient, compassionate, and high-quality medical care by ensuring the shelter's medical operations run smoothly, animals are properly prepared and monitored, and the veterinary team has the support needed to succeed.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Animal Intake & Daily Medical Support Perform intake processing for incoming animals, including: Basic visual health assessments Administering vaccines and preventatives as directed Weighing animals and recording initial data Prepare animals for exams, treatments, and surgery (fasting checks, identification, paperwork) Assist with animal restraint for exams and procedures Observe animals daily and report any medical or behavioral concerns promptly Treatment & Care Support Assist in the preparation and administration of medications, vaccines, and treatments as directed by a licensed Veterinarian or Veterinary Technician and in accordance with established medical protocols Carry out prescribed treatment plans and standing orders as approved by the shelter's Veterinarian Monitor animals post-treatment and report any concerns or changes in condition Surgery & Clinic Day Support Prepare surgical suite, instruments, and supplies for surgery days Assist with patient prep (shaving, cleaning, transport) Support patient flow during surgery days to ensure efficiency Monitor animals in recovery under supervision and report abnormalities Medical Coordination & Transport Logistics Coordinate scheduling of: In-house surgeries and exams Outside veterinary appointments and referrals Arrange and coordinate animal transport to outside veterinary clinics: Prioritize scheduling trained volunteers for transport whenever possible Prepare animals and vehicle (when applicable) for transport, including medical records, medications, containment, adequate fuel in vehicle Ensure staff is present when volunteer transport returns to the facility Serve as point of contact with outside veterinary clinics to ensure continuity of care Track and follow up on pending treatments, rechecks, and referral outcomes Transport animals using the shelter vehicle when necessary, ensuring safe and humane handling and compliance with organizational policies Recordkeeping & Data Entry Maintain accurate and timely medical records in shelter software (e.g., PetPoint) Enter intake data, treatments, exam notes, and outside veterinary records Ensure all animals have complete and up-to-date medical information Inventory & Facility Support Maintain organized medical supply inventory and notify leadership of needs Clean, disinfect, and maintain all medical areas, including exam rooms, treatment areas, and surgical suite Ensure proper handling and storage of medications and supplies Communication & Team Collaboration Serve as a liaison between animal care staff and the medical team Communicate medical updates and concerns clearly and promptly Assist in educating staff and volunteers on basic medical protocols as directed Additional Responsibilities Assist with posting stray animals using approved processes Follow all shelter protocols related to sanitation, disease control, and safety Provide humane, low-stress handling and care for all animals Perform other duties as assigned to support shelter operations Safety & Compliance Follow and enforce safety protocols to protect staff, volunteers, and animals. Ensure humane treatment of all animals at all times. Report incidents, injuries, or concerns promptly.

MEDICAL LIMITATIONS

This position does not diagnose medical conditions, prescribe medications, or make independent medical decisions. All treatments and procedures are performed under veterinary direction and within the scope permitted by Ohio law.

EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

High school diploma or equivalent required Previous experience in an animal care, veterinary clinic, or shelter environment preferred Basic knowledge of animal handling and restraint techniques Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, behavior, and basic health monitoring Strong organizational, multitasking, and problem-solving skills Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team environment Basic computer skills; experience with shelter software preferred Ability to remain calm, efficient, and effective in a fast-paced, high-stress environment Willingness to learn and take direction from veterinary staff Physical ability to perform duties including lifting up to 50 lbs., standing, bending, and handling animals of all sizes and temperaments Commitment to the mission and values of the organization Ability and willingness to transport animals when necessary, including valid driver's license and insurable driving record required Must be at least 18 years old Weekend and evening availability required Must submit to a background check and have no felony alcohol or drug-related convictions. Completion of Fear Free Shelters Certification within 30 days of hire (provided by ACAPL)

WORKING CONDITIONS

Schedule:

Full-time (32-40 hours/week), including weekends and occasional evenings

Environment:

Animal shelter setting with exposure to animals, noise, cleaning chemicals, and zoonotic diseases

Physical:

Frequent standing, walking, lifting, bending, and animal handling

Emotional:

Must maintain professionalism and compassion in a setting where emotionally challenging situations are common

AT WILL EMPLOYMENT

Employment with Ashtabula County APL is at-will, meaning that employment is for no specified period and may be terminated by either the employee or the organization at any time, with or without cause. Ashtabula County APL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, disability, or any other legally protected basis. Employment decisions are based solely on qualifications.

NOTE:

This position description is not exhaustive. You may be required to perform other related duties within your skill set as negotiated and/or directed to meet the evolving needs of the department and the organization.

Pay:

$13.00

• $14.

00 per hour

Benefits:

Paid time off Professional development assistance Tuition reimbursement

Work Location:

In person