HEATHER ERICKSON
SIOUX CITY,IA
Summary
Veterinary assistant equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm in the veterinary field.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Veterinary Assistant Instructor
Western Iowa Tech Community College
2012.01 - Current
- Instructor for Veterinary Assistant Program and teaching courses in: Surgical Concepts, Veterinary Pharmacy Skills, Anatomy and Physiology, Kennel Management, Veterinary Terminology, Animal Behavior, Handling and Restraint, Clinical Studies, Veterinary Reception and Administration Skills, Animal Care Specialties
- Program and course development for 12 courses
- Learned and adapted quickly to new technology and software applications.
- Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
- Use lectures, discussions and demonstrations to increase learning and classroom success
- Track student assignments, attendance and test scores and entered to an online database to provide real-time progress monitoring
- Incorporated online learning using virtual assignments & Zoom
- Create and engage up to 24 students in laboratory sessions
- Lead Advisory committee for Veterinary Assistant Program
- Distribute course syllabus and responded to student questions and concerns regarding standards, material, grading and progression
- Completed and submitted reports to administration detailing course activities and plans
- Curriculum Committee involvement
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
- Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.
Receptionist/Front Desk
Elk Creek Animal Hospital
2014.10 - 2015.01
- Answered approximately 40 plus telephone calls to field inquiries from clients, vendors and various other callers seeking information
- Managed office inventory by restocking supplies and placing purchase orders to maintain adequate stock levels
- Assisted internal staff with clerical and administrative needs to maximize efficiency and team productivity
- Collected payments from clients and updated account balances
- Confirmed appointments, communicated with clients, and updated client records.
- Kept reception area clean and neat to give visitors positive first impression.
Office Manager
Singing Hills Animal Hospital
2009.10 - 2012.01
- Conducted performance reviews for 10 employees
- Oversaw office inventory activities, including ordering and requisitions, stocking and shipment receiving
- Increased team productivity by reorganizing office supplies and protocols
- Communicated objectives through regular correspondence and scheduled status updates between vet offices
- Managed security office system and maintained safe working environment
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing client inquiries or concerns via phone calls or email correspondence.
- Handled sensitive information with discretion, maintaining confidentiality of company documents and personnel records.
Veterinary Assistant
Singing Hills Animal Hospital
2000.06 - 2012.01
- Processed new patients and updated client records using Avimark
- Provide various treatments ordered by veterinarian for all hospitalized pets
- Provided exemplary customer service to owners by answering animal health questions and educating about positive animal care practices
- Educated animal owners regarding feeding, general care, medical conditions and treatment options
- Filled prescriptions and coordinated refills for clients
- Evaluated incoming patients to determine treatment needs and urgency of care
- Prepared surgical instrument packs and drapes for use in sterile environments by processing in autoclave under high pressure and high temperature conditions
- Assisted veterinary surgeon in surgeries and procedures across variety of domestic and exotic species of animals
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, equipment and kennels to prevent spread of disease, control odors and maintain healthy environment
- Assisted veterinarians in performing basic exams and tests for variety of patient species
- Monitored animals in post-operative care unit for anesthesia recovery, vital signs and activity levels
- Collected specimens from patients for laboratory analysis for parasite, blood analysis and cultures
- Conducted preliminary patient workups including gathering patient history information, description of symptoms from owner, and documenting presenting condition
- Followed all pet care instructions, including dietary needs and medication regimens
- Analyzed bloodwork and sample results using IDEXX, to diagnose diseases and conditions
- Ordered supplies and conducted routine inventories of supplies and equipment
- Cleaned and maintained laboratory area
- Coordinated documentation of all treatment activities
- Sterilized instruments and equipment for necessary procedures
- Remained on call after hours for 7 days each month
- Collected body tissue, feces, blood, urine or other body fluids for examination and analysis
- Groomed dogs and cats by utilizing tools including blades, brushes, combs, shedding aids, de-matting tools, sheers, nail clippers and bathing techniques
- Trained and socialized puppies including house-training and ending destructive behaviors
- Cared for wide range of animals, including rodents, pocket pets, reptiles, birds, cats and dogs
- Performed routine laboratory, diagnostic tests and radiograph as well as experience with ultrasound
Education
Bachelor in Science - Business
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE09.2009
Associate of Arts - Arts and Sciences
Western Iowa Tech Community College
Sioux City, IA12.2007
Skills
- Veterinary Assisting
- Cornerstone & Avimark Systems
- Veterinary Inventory Management
- Microsoft Suite
- Classroom management
- Veterinary Reception
- Customer Service
- Advising
- Course Development
- Canvas
- Group instruction
- Teaching/tutoring
- Critical thinking
- Online course facilitation
Client Communication
Community Service
Board of Directors for Siouxland Humane Society, 05/2023, Fundraising, time donation for activities
References
- Kristy Lander, nursing student, 712-389-2963
- Maggie Beccard, SCCSD, 712-212-5754
Community
Board of Directors for Siouxland Humane Society 5/2023
Fundraising, time donation for activities
Timeline
Receptionist/Front Desk
Elk Creek Animal Hospital
2014.10 - 2015.01
Veterinary Assistant Instructor
Western Iowa Tech Community College
2012.01 - Current
Office Manager
Singing Hills Animal Hospital
2009.10 - 2012.01
Veterinary Assistant
Singing Hills Animal Hospital
2000.06 - 2012.01
Bachelor in Science - Business
Bellevue University
Associate of Arts - Arts and Sciences
Western Iowa Tech Community College
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