Gretchen Hoffert

• Support veterinary team in diagnostic procedures such as radiographs, ultrasounds, scopes, lameness and neurological exams for accurate diagnoses.
• Follow safety protocols for handling animals.
• Collect and process samples for laboratory testing and prepared samples for outside laboratory analysis.
• Facilitate efficient truck inventory management through regular stock checks and organizing storage areas.
• Accurately record what procedures are performed and what medications and vaccinations are administered or dispensed during appointments.
• Assist veterinarian in preparing for appointments by ensuring that all needed equipment, vaccines, and medications are packed in the truck
• Help with training of new veterinary assistants and support staff to improve individuals' capabilities.
• Maintain cleanliness of equipment and clinic exam rooms.
• Contribute teamwork flexibility adaptability willingness learn new skills support colleagues achieve practice goals objectives.

• Positioned animals for diagnostic imaging such as x-rays and scans.
• Assisted in the administration of medications, vaccinations, and treatments as prescribed by the veterinarian.
• Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment, and kennels to prevent diseases and control odors.
• Assisted with euthanasia procedures in humanely and compassionately to minimize suffering.
• Facilitated smoother surgical procedures by efficiently setting up surgical suites according to veterinarian specifications.
• Increased effectiveness of pet owner communications, providing clear instructions for at-home care and medication administration.
• Enhanced client satisfaction, educating pet owners on preventative care and nutritional needs.
• Restrained animals for examination and treatment.
• Collected and prepared specimens and samples for outside laboratory analysis.
• Provided customer support to clients, answering questions and addressing concerns.
• Maintained medical records and documentation accurately, recording patient histories and treatment plans.
• Assisted front office staff by answering phones, scheduling appointments, and answering client questions

80-hour externship for college credit.

Learned how to:

• Take patient history
• How to take patient vitals
• Restrain patients (including small exotics)
• Perform venipunctures
• Administer SQ and IM injections
• Place IV catheter
• Intubate patients
• Administer general anesthesia and monitor patients
• Assist with dental cleanings
• How to wrap surgical instrument packs

• Mucked stalls
• Feeding
• Administered medications
• Turn out/in
• Groom horses
• Arena maintenance
• Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
• Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
• Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
• Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.

• Shadowed during appointments and surgeries
• Learned the basics of animal restraint
• Learned basics of venipuncture on staff's personal pets