Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers

The work

Core tasks

1. 01Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
2. 02Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
3. 03Fill medication prescriptions.
4. 04Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
5. 05Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
6. 06Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
7. 07Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.
8. 08Administer medication, immunizations, or blood plasma to animals as prescribed by veterinarians.
9. 09Collect laboratory specimens, such as blood, urine, or feces, for testing.
10. 10Perform office reception duties, such as scheduling appointments or helping customers.
11. 11Clean, maintain, and sterilize instruments or equipment.
12. 12Record information relating to animal genealogy, feeding schedules, appearance, behavior, or breeding.

Capabilities

Essential skills

Employment outlook

Where the role is heading