Occupation
Veterinary Assistants and Laboratory Animal Caretakers
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.
O*NET 31.0 · 31-9096.00
A typical week, in the words of people in the job
- 01Monitor animals recovering from surgery and notify veterinarians of any unusual changes or symptoms.
- 02Fill medication prescriptions.
- 03Clean and maintain kennels, animal holding areas, examination or operating rooms, or animal loading or unloading facilities to control the spread of disease.
- 04Examine animals to detect behavioral changes or clinical symptoms that could indicate illness or injury.
- 05Perform routine laboratory tests or diagnostic tests, such as taking or developing x-rays.
- 06Assist veterinarians in examining animals to determine the nature of illnesses or injuries.
- 07Administer medication, immunizations, or blood plasma to animals as prescribed by veterinarians.
- 08Collect laboratory specimens, such as blood, urine, or feces, for testing.
- 09Perform office reception duties, such as scheduling appointments or helping customers.
- 10Clean, maintain, and sterilize instruments or equipment.
- 11Record information relating to animal genealogy, feeding schedules, appearance, behavior, or breeding.
- 12Hold or restrain animals during veterinary procedures.
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Knowledge the job leans on
Skills that carry over from service