Veterinary Assistant

To assist the veterinarian during clinical examinations and maintain accurate and detailed patient medical records, an established business in Pretoria, Gauteng is seeking a Veterinary Assistant.

You will enjoy modern facilities and the equipment needed to do the job well. Good work does not go unnoticed, and progression follows performance. If that sounds like you, we would be glad to receive your application.

• Prepare surgical instruments and equipment by cleaning, sterilising, and packing autoclave loads according to infection control protocols.
• Perform laboratory tests including blood smears, urinalysis, and faecal examinations, recording results in patient records.
• Assist the veterinarian during clinical examinations, surgical procedures, and dental treatments, handing instruments and providing support.
• Maintain accurate and detailed patient medical records including history, examination findings, treatments, and progress notes.
• Advise and educate pet owners on post-operative care, medication administration, diet, parasite control, and general pet care.
• Take and develop diagnostic radiographs under veterinary supervision, positioning patients for optimal image quality.
• Administer medications to patients as prescribed via oral, topical, injectable, and other routes, accurately recording all treatments given.

• A diploma or degree in veterinary nursing from an accredited institution and registration with the South African Veterinary Council.
• Strong communication skills to interact effectively with veterinarians, colleagues, and pet owners.
• Proficiency in clinical skills including patient restraint, venipuncture, IV catheter placement, and anaesthesia monitoring.
• Experience in operating veterinary diagnostic equipment including blood analysers, autoclaves, and radiography machines.
• A minimum of one to three years of experience working in a veterinary clinic, animal hospital, or animal welfare organisation.
• Excellent animal handling skills with the ability to work calmly and confidently with nervous or aggressive animals.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift medium-sized animals, and assist with animal restraint.