Description

To perform animal health care services pursuant to direct, written or telephonic orders by a licensed veterinarian authorized to practice in this state; and to provide routine medical procedures, emergency life-saving procedures and/or euthanasia on impounded animals and bird, reptile, and mammal collection as allowed by the Business and Professions Code for Registered Veterinary Technicians certified in the state of California; to perform other related work as assigned.

Essential Functions
Functions may include, but are not limited to, the following: inspect, examine, and handle all species of domestic animals (impounded) at the shelter; administer emergency, life saving treatments on impounded strays; perform follow-up treatments as prescribed by veterinarians; determine health of potential adoption animals; provide technical guidance and training to staff; prepare animals for surgery; assist veterinarians with surgery, including inducing and monitoring anesthesia; autoclave and maintain all surgery packs; surgically implant microchips into animals; examine all animals coming to the shelter and determine if referral to veterinarian is necessary; respond to public inquiry regarding care and treatment of animals and animal health problems; conduct periodic site inspections of pet shops, kennels and other local animal care facilities to assess compliance with local and state laws; testify in court in animal neglect and cruelty cases; prepare reports and provide case management for long-term in-custody hold and investigations; maintain animal fostering program including monitoring health of fostered animals, scheduling vaccines and treatments, spay/neuters, and return of fostered animals; maintain daily treatment log; administer daily treatments and conduct daily health assessments; maintain files, records, and department documents; administer vaccination, tranquilizers, and medications; perform euthanasia utilizing injection method; handle aggressive animals; store, log and maintain medical supply inventory including Schedule II drugs; respond to animal emergency calls as needed; perform kennel and animal enclosure duties as needed (cleaning, feeding, grooming, etc.); perform routine laboratory clinical tests; build and maintain positive working relationships with co-workers, other City employees and the public using principles of good customer service; perform other duties related to this position.

Requirements

Any combination of education and/or experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying.  A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be one year of responsible experience in an animal care facility and training equivalent to the completion of the twelfth grade preferably supplemented by course work in animal care or a related field.  

License or Certificate: Possession of a valid certificate issued by the State of California Department of Consumer Affairs as a Registered Veterinary Technician or possession of a degree in Veterinary Medicine from an accredited or approved college or university may substitute for the California State Certificate.  May need to possess a valid California driver's license as required by the position.