Starting a new veterinary practice can be an exciting and rewarding venture. However, it requires careful planning and consideration, including building a strong team of staff members. Here are some important veterinary staff positions that you should consider hiring for your new practice:
Veterinarian
A licensed veterinarian is the most critical position in any veterinary practice. They are responsible for diagnosing and treating animals, providing preventive care, and performing surgical procedures. When hiring a veterinarian, it’s essential to find someone with the right credentials, experience, and communication skills to provide excellent care to your patients.
Veterinary Technician
A veterinary technician (VT) is responsible for assisting the veterinarian in providing care to animals. They perform tasks such as administering medication, drawing blood, performing laboratory tests, and taking radiographs. VTs are also responsible for monitoring anesthesia during surgical procedures and providing post-operative care to patients. It’s important to hire licensed veterinary technicians with the necessary skills and experience to perform these tasks safely and effectively.
Receptionist
A receptionist is the first point of contact for clients when they call or visit your veterinary practice. They are responsible for answering phones, scheduling appointments, and greeting clients. A good receptionist should have excellent communication skills, be organized, and have a friendly and welcoming demeanor.
Veterinary Assistant
A veterinary assistant is responsible for performing a variety of tasks that support the veterinarian and veterinary technicians. These may include cleaning and sterilizing equipment, maintaining inventory, and assisting with patient care. Veterinary assistants should be detail-oriented and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
Practice Manager
A practice manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of your veterinary practice. They are responsible for managing staff, scheduling appointments, managing finances, and ensuring that the practice runs smoothly. A good practice manager should have experience in veterinary medicine, be organized, and have excellent leadership skills.
Groomer
A groomer is responsible for maintaining the appearance and hygiene of animals. They may perform tasks such as bathing, trimming nails, and cleaning ears. While not all veterinary practices offer grooming services, hiring a groomer can provide an additional source of revenue and attract new clients to your practice.
Boarding Kennel Attendant
If your veterinary practice offers boarding services, a boarding kennel attendant is essential. They are responsible for feeding, exercising, and providing general care to animals while they are staying at the practice. Boarding kennel attendants should be comfortable handling animals of all sizes and temperaments and have good communication skills with clients.
Hiring the right staff is critical to the success of any veterinary practice. Hiring the right mix of licensed veterinarians, veterinary technicians, receptionists, veterinary assistants, practice managers, groomers, and boarding kennel attendants can help ensure that your practice runs smoothly and provides the best possible care to your patients. It’s important to carefully evaluate candidates for each position and hire individuals with the necessary skills, experience, and personality traits to fit well into your practice culture.