Veterinary Technician

Determined to end Veteran suicide, K9s For Warriors is the leading nonprofit organization providing Service Dogs to military Veterans nationwide suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma — at no financial cost to the Veteran. Founded in 2011 as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, K9s For Warriors is committed to saving lives at both ends of the leash by primarily rescuing dogs and pairing them with Veterans in need. In order to continue the great work we’re doing, we’re looking to add a Veterinary Technician to our amazing team! 

Role and Responsibilities

Under the general direction and supervision of Medical Management, the Veterinary Technician is responsible for the medical care and wellness of all dogs within the program and the maintenance of all medical records.

Essential Functions and Duties 

• Review medical records and establish a plan of action for each dog upon intake to the program
• Administer vaccines under Veterinarian supervision/direction
• Collect and run diagnostic samples including but not limited to fecal, blood, urine, and skin. Submit to outside laboratories when needed.
• Implant microchips as needed and/or transfer ownership of implanted microchips. Maintain current microchip information.
• Create individualized dietary plans for all dogs in the program. Adjust diets with current weight trends. Maintain weight and food intake logs.
• Communicate with local veterinary clinics to schedule necessary appointments for all dogs in the program. Transport dogs as needed.
• Assist doctors with exams and in surgery
• Intubate and administer anesthetic drugs and monitor anesthesia 
• Obtain vitals, perform simple medical exams, and complete medical notes under Veterinarian supervision/direction
• Maintain current and comprehensive medical records, including applicable certificates, on all dogs in the program
• Maintain current inventory and logs of medications, clinic supplies, diagnostic supplies, etc.
• Obtain health certificates and applicable documents for local and interstate transport, including but not limited to Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Guam.
• Fill and administer intravenous, intramuscular, subcutaneous, topical, and oral drugs/medications, including monthly preventions
• Always handle animals humanely and safely
• Follow and adhere to all PPE policies
• Participate in mock veterinary exams with Warriors during class, educating about appropriate veterinary care and what to expect when returning home with their Service Dog
• Ability to work with dogs on unknown or outdated vaccination history
• Initiate emergency procedures when indicated
• Follow medical care guidelines provided by Veterinarian
• Report any abnormalities with dogs to the Medical Management and Veterinarian
• Address any medical concerns our Warriors may have regarding their Service Dog, and conduct exams, draft care plans, and conduct follow ups, as needed.

Other Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor or management
• Maintain good communication with veterinary staff, other departments, and outside clinics
• Maintain good working relationships with veterinary staff and organization employees

Qualifications and Education Requirements 

• Certification through an accredited veterinary technician program or equivalent veterinary work experience preferred
• Ability to multi-task
• Ability to work independently and within a team setting
• Excellent communication skills
• Valid driver’s license is required and meet standards to be added to company driving policy
• Must have basic computer literacy skills and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while working in a busy environment

Physical Demands

Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually.  Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds, cleaning chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather.  Must be able to handle, position, and restrain live animals.

Core Competencies 

• Adaptability 
• Attention to Detail
• Initiative
• Integrity 
• Planning and Organizing 
• Technical Professional Knowledge and Skills