Island Dog Lodge |   JOB DESCRIPTION


POSITION: Canine Vet Technician

DATE CREATED: August 28, 2024

REPORTS TO: Tracie Breski, Owner

CREATED BY:  IDL Management 


POSITION SUMMARY

Welcome to Island Dog Lodge, a fast-paced, high-volume dog lodging facility dedicated to providing exceptional care to our canine guests. We pride ourselves on delivering top-quality services to dogs and their families, offering a range of care options, including day lodging, overnight stays, and specialized medical support. As a Veterinary Technician at Island Dog Lodge, you will play a critical role in ensuring the health and well-being of the dogs in our care while also supporting their owners through compassionate and professional service.   You will also need to be flexible to assist our canine handlers with supporting day & and overnight lodging guests.


Internal: External

  • Canine Attendants/Handlers - Customers

  • Canine Groomers - Vendors

  • Canine Lodge Co-ordinator  -  Veterinarians

  • Management                                                 


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Paperwork Assistance: Manage the intake and outtake paperwork for dogs staying at the lodge, ensuring all records are accurate and up to date in our software system.

  • Medical Support: Assist dog owners who need medical care for their pets, including overseeing medical stays and providing continuous monitoring and care.

  • Palliative Care:  Provide compassionate end-of-life care for dogs, ensuring their comfort and dignity during their time at the lodge.

  • Canine CPR & First Aid:  Be prepared to administer emergency first aid, including CPR, to dogs in need.

  • Overnight Care: Assisting with our  overnight  monitoring  and care for dogs, particularly those requiring medical attention or special care.  

  • Record Keeping:  Maintain detailed and accurate medical records, including nutritional plans and treatment logs.

  • Animal Care:  Administer medications, and treatments as directed by a veterinarian. Provide general care and attention to the dogs in our facility.

  • Client Communication:  Educate pet owners on proper care, nutrition, and medical conditions, and offer emotional support during difficult times.

DOG LODGE RESPONSIBILITIES

You may be asked to provide overflow support our team of Canine handlers with the following:

  •   Receive incoming dogs and prepare them for departure when picked up.

  •   Monitor dogs in the play areas and while crated or in their cottages.

  •   Ensure the cleanliness of living areas by removing waste and cleaning all spaces.

  •   Observe dogs' behaviour and condition, providing first aid as necessary.

  •   Safely transition dogs between indoor and outdoor areas, following established protocols.

  •   Walk dogs and engage them in safe, interactive play.

HOURS OF WORK

We are open 7 days a week from 7am till 7pm, 365 days a year. Expectations are ability and willingness to work on weekdays, weekends and Holidays. As well we are open no matter the extent of the weather extreme or mild and staff will be expected to work and travel in these conditions. 

TECHNICAL/FUNCTIONAL KNOWLEDGE

  • General computer knowledge

  • Use of Google Workspace Email | Google docs | Sheets

  • Ability to share photo files

  • Company communication Apps 

  • Knowledge of and demonstrated experience 

CORE COMPETENCIES

  • Strong communication skills

  • Ability to plan/organize/implement

  • Strong attention to detail

  • strong time management skills

  • Good interpersonal skills

  • Strong spelling and grammar accuracy

  • Should be a team player

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum: (a combination of)

  • Excellent knowledge of English, oral & written

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Required to pursue this role.

  • Veterinary Technology Program: Completion of a two to three-year veterinary technology program accredited by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA).

  • Certification: Must have passed the Veterinary Technician National Examination (VTNE) and be registered with the appropriate provincial association (e.g., OAVT in Ontario, ABVMA in Alberta).

  • Continued Education: Commitment to ongoing professional development through continuing education courses.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES 

  • Compassionate Care: A deep love for animals and a commitment to their well-being.

  • Attention to Detail: Accuracy in record-keeping and monitoring animal health.

  • Communication Skills: Ability to effectively communicate with pet owners and team members.

  • Physical Stamina: Capable of handling the physical demands of the role, including lifting, cleaning, and walking dogs.

  • Adaptability: Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with a high volume of dogs.

NATURE OF THINKING

  • Proactive to meet changing work environment challenges

  • Capable of working under stressful conditions, while projecting a positive attitude

  • Take ownership of situations, initiatives, and decision making in order to independently come up with action plans to be presented to your Manager.


THINKING ENVIRONMENT

  • Ability to be flexible as dictated by current company practices

  • Ability to work independently while being a team player


FREEDOM TO ACT

  • Work within the Company guidelines and policies 

  • Issues outside of policy to be discussed with Management