Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) - Job Description

Reports To: MDVM/Hospital Manager

Position Summary

The Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) provides skilled support to veterinarians and technicians in patient care, diagnostics, and client service. This role requires successful completion of a certified veterinary assistant program and demonstrates competency beyond an entry-level assistant, while still working under the supervision of a licensed technician or veterinarian.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

·• All Tech Assistant duties.

·• Safely restrain and handle patients during exams and procedures.

·• Collect blood, urine, and fecal samples for diagnostics.

·• Run in-house lab tests (CBC, chemistries, urinalysis, SNAP tests).

·• Place IV catheters and administer fluids under supervision.

·• Assist with radiographs using proper safety protocols.

·• Prepare and maintain surgical packs and assist in sterile procedure setup.

·• Provide nursing care for hospitalized patients (feeding, treatments, monitoring).

·• Dispense medications as directed by a veterinarian.

·• Communicate clearly with clients about basic home care and follow-up instructions.

·• Mentor Tech Assistants and support training of new staff.

Qualifications

·• High school diploma or equivalent.

·• Completion of an approved Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) program.

·• Strong animal handling and clinical skills.

·• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

·• Veterinary hospital experience preferred.

Physical Requirements

·• Ability to lift 50 lbs unassisted.

·• Standing, walking, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.

·• Handling animals in stressful or emergent situations.

Work Environment

·• Exposure to animal waste, blood, medications, and cleaning agents.

·• Noise from animals and hospital equipment.

·• Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility.

Core Competencies

·• Patient care and safety.

·• Technical proficiency.

·• Teamwork and dependability.

·• Attention to detail.

·• Professionalism and client service orientation.