Occupation information for Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers District Of Columbia

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description

Feed, water, and examine pets and other nonfarm animals for signs of illness, disease, or injury in laboratories and animal hospitals and clinics. Clean and disinfect cages and work areas, and sterilize laboratory and surgical equipment. May provide routine postoperative care, administer medication orally or topically, or prepare samples for laboratory examination under the supervision of veterinary or laboratory animal technologists or technicians, veterinarians, or scientists.

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Currently Employed: Not Available

Projected Annual Job Openings: Not Available

Typical Hourly Wage: Not Available

Typical Annual Salary: Not Available

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typical training

Typical education needed for entry: High school diploma or equivalent

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: No work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: Less than 1 month on-the-job training

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typical job duties
  • Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
  • Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
  • Administer anesthetics during surgery and monitor the effects on animals.
  • Fill medication prescriptions.
  • Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
  • Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
  • Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
  • Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.
  • Administer medication, immunizations, or blood plasma to animals as prescribed by veterinarians.
  • Collect laboratory specimens, such as blood, urine, or feces, for testing.
tools & technology
Tools:
  • Animal catching devices
  • Animal shearing or clipping equipment
  • Medical x ray units for general diagnostic use
  • Urinalysis analyzers
  • Veterinary injection or suction unit

Technology:
  • Calendar and scheduling software
  • Data base user interface and query software
  • Electronic mail software
  • Medical software
  • Word processing software
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