Registered Veterinary Technician

As a Registered Veterinary Technician, you will be a vital contributor to our mission of providing exceptional care to the animals under our guardianship. Your expertise, empathy, and technical proficiency will be instrumental in ensuring the well-being and health of the animals we serve.

Reporting to the Manager, Medical Care, the Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) is a very rewarding position and an integral part of the shelter and is responsible for providing all aspects of medical care and support for the animals in the care of OMHS. Working closely with the Animal Care Attendant (ACAs), the RVT will ensure that the care and welfare of all animals in the shelter is maintained in accordance with OMHS expectations and protocols. They provide daily care to animals in the isolation area and wildlife areas; administer daily medications and processes animals through the shelter. They require the ability to organize, and co-ordinate assigned work to make informed decisions concerning animal health and treatment. It is expected of the RVT to handle all animals with the utmost humane treatment, ensuring minimal stress. Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:

ANIMAL INTAKE

• Conduct comprehensive assessments of animals (age, sex, health, behavior).
• Provide daily care and support to shelter animals, both domestic and wild.
• Assist with animal intake and coordinate vet appointments as needed.
• Ensure all animals receive necessary vaccinations as per shelter protocols.
• Maintain effective communication with Lost & Found, APO team, and Animal Welfare Committee.
• Contribute to adoption, foster care, and euthanasia discussions.

ANIMAL CONTROL

• Collaborate with Animal Protection Services (APS) to address suspected cruelty or abuse cases and offer guidance.
• Respond to inquiries about injured animals, providing pickup services when needed.
• Conduct humane euthanasia for wild animals as required and provide training to Animal Protection Officers on humane euthanasia procedures.

ANIMAL HEALTH

• Conduct comprehensive health exams, and necessary treatments.
• Enforce microchip policy for animal identification.
• Act as a liaison between the shelter and community vets for appointments.
• Schedule surgeries, follow shelter procedures, and work during disease outbreaks.
• Implement vet orders, maintain complete medical records, and administer vaccinations.
• Assist with additional duties as needed, such as equipment maintenance and cage cleaning.

EDUCATION

• Actively participate in humane education efforts for staff and the general public.
• Provide guidance and advice on animal isolation, medical care, and treatment.
• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for health-related inquiries from the public, staff, volunteers, and foster families, addressing public health concerns by directing them to the appropriate contacts.

REGULATORY

• Ensure strict adherence to health and safety policies and procedures.
• Maintain meticulous records, including medical records, drug and vaccine logs, foster files, wildlife documentation, and financial records.
• Actively contribute to staff meetings with ideas for enhancing animal care services.
• Stay informed about developments in animal welfare and industry practices.
• Exercise discretion and sound judgment to uphold the organization’s positive reputation.
• Wholeheartedly support the organization’s objectives and mission.
• Fulfill additional assignments as directed by the Director or their appointee.
• Complete any other tasks as requested or assigned.

TEAMWORK

• Maintain professionalism and respect in all interactions.
• Embrace flexibility and contribute positively to the Animal Care Team.
• Foster open and respectful communication with colleagues, volunteers, and co-op students, addressing issues with your manager.
• Attend required staff meetings and provide insights on departmental policies and procedures.
• Cultivate a compassionate and helpful environment with a positive attitude toward colleagues.

In this role, it is essential to uphold a high standard of professionalism and effective communication. Here are the expected behaviors:

·         Professional Demeanor: Present yourself professionally and respectfully in all interactions and situations, both within the organization and with the public.

·         Positive Contribution: Actively contribute to a positive and courteous work environment by offering constructive input and engaging in collaborative problem-solving.

·         Respectful Communication: Communicate with respect and consideration toward co-workers, volunteers, and the public. If you encounter challenges or issues, promptly bring them to the attention of the Animal Care Supervisor.

·         Meeting Attendance: Attend all scheduled staff meetings to stay informed and engaged in the organization’s goals and initiatives.

·         Responsible Behavior: Behave in a responsible and professional manner at all times, ensuring that you uphold the reputation and values of OMHS as a top priority.

·         Promotion of Compassion: Foster an atmosphere characterized by compassion, helpfulness, and a consistently positive attitude toward your co-workers. Your actions should reflect a commitment to the well-being of both animals and people.

By adhering to these principles of conduct, you contribute to a harmonious and productive workplace and help create a welcoming environment for all stakeholders involved with OMHS.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

To excel in the role of a Registered Veterinary Technician, you should meet the following qualifications and criteria:

·         Education: Education:  Veterinary Technician Diploma.

o   Preferred: Registered Veterinary Technician designation.

o   Minimum 2 years of experience in a humane shelter or relevant field.

·          Proficiency in recognizing disease symptoms and safe animal handling.

·          Ability to identify animal breeds and species.

·         Fast-Paced Experience: Proven experience in thriving within a fast-paced work environment demonstrates your ability to adapt and perform effectively under pressure.

·         Animal Handling: Exhibit confidence and skill in handling animals of diverse temperaments, ensuring their well- being and comfort.

·         Animal Health and Welfare: Preferred knowledge and prior experience in animal health and welfare underline your commitment to the welfare of the animals under your care.

·         Computer Proficiency: Be proficient in utilizing Microsoft Office tools, facilitating efficient documentation and communication.

·         Driver’s License: Hold a valid G license with a clear Driver’s Abstract to assist in transport or other related duties.

·         Clean Background: Successfully cleared Criminal Background Check, underscoring your trustworthiness and suitability for the role.

·         Exceptional Reliability: Exhibit exceptional reliability and a willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and overtime as necessary, to ensure continuous care for the animals.

These qualifications and requirements are essential to fulfilling the responsibilities of an RVT and ensuring the well-being of the animals and the smooth operation of the shelter.

SKILLS:

·      Outstanding organizational and time management abilities are essential.

·      Demonstrated expertise in both written and verbal communication, coupled with strong interpersonal skills.

·      Effective collaboration skills within a team-oriented environment.

·      Proficient at excelling in fast-paced, high-pressure situations.

·      Demonstrates autonomy and self-reliance in work tasks.

·      Exhibits diplomacy, tact, and discretion in every interaction.

·      Maintains flexibility and adaptability when confronted with changing situations.

·      Reliable, including working all shifts, weekends, and holidays.

·      Displays genuine compassion for both people and animals.

·      Skilled in fostering harmonious relationships within diverse groups of individuals.

Contact Stephanie at stephanieh@omhs.ca or 905-845-1551 ext 127 for more information!

Join our team today!

Tagged as: benefits, full time, RVT