Heather McKenny
Valley Stream,NY
Summary
Veterinary professional of 20 years with comprehensive background in handling emergency situations and providing critical care and monitoring. Known for quick decision-making and effective strategies with veterinary staff for successful treatment and surgical outcomes. Collaborates with veterinary teams and adapts to dynamic environments, showcasing proficiency in diagnostic techniques and animal handling. Possesses excellent communication and customer service skills to deliver quality patient care and client relations. Compassionate and comforting bedside manners with clients facing the loss of a pet.
Overview
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Overnight Emergency Veterinary Technician
Central Veterinary Associates - Premiere Veterinary Medical Group - PetOne RVC
Rockville Centre, NY
04.2017 - 04.2026
- Administered emergency medical care to critically ill animals, ensuring immediate stabilization and treatment.
- Maintained care and updated observations for patients in ICU, 5 Treatment wards, and Isolation as the only Technician on staff.
- Assisted veterinarians during emergency surgical procedures, maintaining a sterile environment and preparing necessary instruments.
- Monitored vital signs during anesthesia induction, surgery, and post-operative recovery periods for safe procedures.
- Prepared surgical instrument packs and drapes for use in sterile environments by processing in autoclave and refilling distilled water containers.
- Performed in-house fecal examinations, urinalysis, and bloodwork for quick diagnostics.
- Maintaining and documenting changes or observations in patients for accurate records and follow-up care.
- Adapted effectively to fast-paced working environments requiring critical thinking and problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations.
- Trained junior staff on emergency protocols and best practices, fostering a knowledgeable and skilled team environment.
Veterinary Technician
Central Veterinary Associates
Valley Stream, NY
04.2015 - 04.2017
- Conducted diagnostic tests such as blood work, x-rays, and ultrasounds to aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Recorded symptoms and documented medical observations to inform treatment decisions.
- Administered vaccinations and medications to ensure optimal animal health.
- Assisted veterinarians in surgical procedures, providing necessary tools and support.
- Monitored vital signs of patients during examinations and treatments for accurate assessments.
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Central Veterinary Associates
Valley Stream, NY
02.2011 - 04.2015
- Assisted veterinarians in administering medications and vaccinations.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of examination rooms and surgical areas.
- Managed inventory of medical supplies, ensuring availability for daily operations.
- Supported veterinary staff in conducting routine health assessments on animals.
- Collaborated with the veterinary team in emergency situations, providing critical support to stabilize patients quickly and effectively.
- Administered medications to animals in treatment and documented changes in condition.
- Walked pets outside throughout each shift to prevent accidents in group play areas and on bedding.
- Assisted in training new Veterinary Technician Assistants to ensure they were properly prepared for their roles within the clinic, creating a cohesive team environment.
- Improved patient care by assisting veterinarians in administering treatments and medications.
- Ensured proper restraint techniques were employed during examinations or procedures to protect both staff members and animals from harm.
Veterinarian Assistant/Kennel Worker/Receptionist
Central Veterinary Associates
Valley Stream, NY
06.2006 - 02.2011
- Assisted veterinarians in performing appointments, examinations, vaccinations, and treatments for a variety of animal species including exotic pets.
- Supported veterinarians during examinations by properly restraining animals and maintaining sterile environments, ensuring accurate medical assessments and treatments.
- Provided daily care for animals, ensuring health and well-being through proper feeding and exercise for upwards to 50 animals, hospitalized or boarding.
- Maintained cleanliness of kennel facilities, adhering to safety and sanitation protocols.
- Scheduled and coordinated appointments, ensuring optimal use of office resources.
- Managed multi-line phone system, directing calls to appropriate departments efficiently.
Education
No Degree - Veterinary Science
Penn Foster Online
Scranton, PAHigh School Diploma -
Pompton Lakes High School
Pompton Lakes, NJ06-2008
Skills
Emergency triage and care
Venipuncture techniques
IV catheter placement and IV fluid/medication administration
Surgical assistance and procedure preparation
Diagnostic imaging, sample collection, and laboratory testing
Euthanasia assistance and client comfort
Record keeping and inpatient care
Clear written and verbal communications
Adaptability and flexibility
Multitasking abilities
Organizational skills
Timeline
Overnight Emergency Veterinary Technician
Central Veterinary Associates - Premiere Veterinary Medical Group - PetOne RVC
04.2017 - 04.2026
Veterinary Technician
Central Veterinary Associates
04.2015 - 04.2017
Veterinary Technician Assistant
Central Veterinary Associates
02.2011 - 04.2015
Veterinarian Assistant/Kennel Worker/Receptionist
Central Veterinary Associates
06.2006 - 02.2011
No Degree - Veterinary Science
Penn Foster Online
High School Diploma -
Pompton Lakes High School