Veterinary Assistant

Lynchburg Humane Society | Regional Veterinary Center

Position Description

Reports to: Veterinary Practice Manager / Medical Leadership

Job Summary

The Veterinary Assistant plays an important role in supporting the veterinary team across three areas of care: high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter services, community veterinary practice, and medical care for shelter animals. This position works directly alongside veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians to provide hands-on patient care, assist with surgical procedures, prepare patients and equipment, and help ensure efficient daily operations.

Working in our new Regional Veterinary Center, this position offers the opportunity to be part of a diverse veterinary team focused on making quality veterinary care accessible to more pets and families while also meeting the medical needs of animals in our shelter. The ideal candidate is comfortable in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working as part of a team, and is passionate about improving the lives of animals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Surgical and Spay/Neuter Support

• Assist veterinarians and licensed veterinary technicians with high-quality, high-volume spay/neuter surgeries.
• Prepare surgical suites, equipment, instruments, and supplies.
• Assist with patient preparation, including weighing, handling, positioning, and surgical preparation.
• Monitor patients before, during, and after surgery as directed by the veterinary team.
• Assist with patient recovery and post-operative care.
• Maintain proper sanitation, sterilization, and organization of surgical equipment and spaces.

Community Veterinary Practice

• Assist veterinarians with wellness appointments, sick-pet visits, diagnostics, and other medical procedures.
• Obtain patient histories, record vital signs, collect samples, and assist with diagnostic testing.
• Prepare exam rooms and patients for appointments and procedures.
• Provide patient handling and restraint during examinations and treatments.
• Assist with client communication, discharge instructions, and follow-up care as needed.
• Help maintain an organized, clean, and efficient clinical environment.

Shelter Animal Medical Care

• Assist with the daily medical needs of shelter animals, including examinations, treatments, vaccinations, and medications.
• Monitor animals for signs of illness, injury, or changes in condition and communicate concerns to the veterinary team.
• Assist with intake examinations, medical procedures, and ongoing treatment plans.
• Maintain accurate medical records and treatment documentation.
• Work collaboratively with shelter staff to ensure animals receive timely medical attention.

General Responsibilities

• Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked medical and surgical areas.
• Follow established safety, sanitation, and infection-control protocols.
• Handle animals safely and humanely, minimizing stress whenever possible.
• Work collaboratively with veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, and other team members.
• Adapt to changing priorities in a busy, multi-service veterinary environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Experience

• Previous experience in a veterinary hospital, animal shelter, or similar animal care setting preferred.
• Experience assisting with surgical procedures or veterinary treatments is a plus.
• Knowledge of animal handling, restraint, basic medical terminology, and veterinary practices preferred.
• Ability to work comfortably with dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and medical conditions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow medical instructions and protocols.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Compassion for animals and a commitment to providing high-quality veterinary care.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely handle and restrain animals of varying sizes.
• Ability to work around animal fur, odors, cleaning products, and medical supplies.
• Ability to perform hands-on patient care and surgical support duties.