Vet Assistant - Kensington, Maryland

What You'll Do

Patient Care & Clinical Support:

• Assist veterinarians during examinations, treatments, diagnostic procedures, and surgeries.
• Prepare patients for medical and surgical procedures, including pre-operative and post-operative care.
• Monitor patient comfort and recovery following surgical procedures and anesthesia.
• Safely restrain pets using fear-free and low-stress handling techniques.
• Collect samples for laboratory testing, including blood, urine, and fecal specimens.
• Administer medications, vaccines, and treatments under veterinary direction.
• Place and maintain IV catheters and provide nursing care for hospitalized patients.
• Maintain accurate treatment records and medical documentation.

Laboratory & Diagnostic Procedures:

• Perform in-house diagnostic testing, including hematology, urinalysis, cytology, and fecal evaluations.
• Assist with diagnostic imaging procedures, including radiography and ultrasound preparation.
• Maintain and sanitize laboratory and diagnostic equipment according to hospital protocols.
• Record and communicate diagnostic findings appropriately.

Client Service & Communication:

• Educate pet owners regarding preventive care, medications, treatment plans, nutrition, and follow-up recommendations.
• Provide clear, compassionate communication throughout the patient's visit.
• Assist with appointment flow, client check-in/check-out, and general client inquiries.
• Support the veterinary team by ensuring a positive client experience from admission through discharge.

Hospital Operations:

• Help maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked treatment, exam, and surgical areas.
• Accurately enter charges, treatment plans, and medical notes into the practice management system.
• Assist with inventory organization and daily operational tasks as needed.
• Follow all hospital policies, safety guidelines, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Contribute to a collaborative, professional, and patient-focused culture.

What We're Looking For

• 3+ years of veterinary assistant experience preferred, with exposure to both appointment and surgical settings.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Working knowledge of anesthesia monitoring, venipuncture, radiology, laboratory procedures, and dentistry support.
• Comfortable utilizing practice management software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a client-service mindset.
• Ability to remain composed and professional during emergency or emotionally challenging situations.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask effectively in a busy hospital environment.
• Commitment to delivering compassionate care to patients and exceptional service to clients.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to safely assist with handling animals weighing up to 130 pounds.
• Comfortable standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and moving throughout the workday.
• Ability to work around disinfectants, anesthetic gases, radiation, animal waste, and zoonotic disease exposure in a veterinary setting.

Benefits

Eligible team members receive a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Schedule

This is a full-time position. Candidates should be available to work a flexible schedule based on hospital needs and operational hours.