Are you a veterinarian or veterinary technician looking to leverage your medical expertise for a greater cause? PAWS Chicago is seeking dedicated individuals to join our shelter medicine team and make a tangible difference in the lives of animals. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the expanding field of shelter medicine while directly contributing to saving lives.
As a Veterinary Support Volunteer, you will play a crucial role in the treatment and socialization of our most vulnerable animals. You’ll work alongside experienced veterinary staff, supporting them in both daily care and advanced treatment procedures. Your involvement will not only enhance your professional skills but also provide vital assistance to our ongoing mission.
The journey begins with shadowing our veterinary teams during their rounds, allowing you to immerse yourself in PAWS Chicago’s renowned shelter medicine program. Through this firsthand experience, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the program’s operations and the critical care provided.
Gaining Experience and Skills
Depending on your existing medical background, you will receive comprehensive training in a variety of essential tasks. This training is designed to equip you with the specific skills needed to excel in a busy shelter environment.
You will learn to:
- Administer medications, provide specialized feeding, and offer comprehensive care to pets at our dedicated Medical Center. This includes understanding dosage requirements and monitoring patient responses to treatment.
- Assist our veterinarians with essential tasks such as taking detailed medical notes, procuring necessary supplies, and safely handling animals during examinations and procedures.
- Support our veterinary teams in preparing animals for surgery, assisting during surgical procedures, and managing post-operative treatment and medication administration, particularly for critical cases.
Furthermore, we extend a warm invitation to volunteer veterinarians who are eager to contribute their surgical skills, conduct medical check-ups, and assist with a wide array of other specialized veterinary needs within our facility. Your advanced knowledge is invaluable to our team.
Requirements for Veterinary Support Volunteers
Our Medical Center operates as a fast-paced, high-volume hospital environment. To ensure the safety and well-being of our animals and staff, all volunteers must meet the following criteria:
- Medical Training or Experience: Applicants must possess formal medical training or relevant experience, whether in human or veterinary medicine. This foundational knowledge is essential for understanding and performing assigned duties.
- Adherence to Instructions: Volunteers must demonstrate the ability to comprehend and precisely follow detailed instructions provided by the veterinary team. Accuracy is paramount in medical care.
- Comfort in a Medical Setting: A comfort level with medical environments, including the presence of sick or injured animals, is required. This includes being unfazed by medical equipment and procedures.
- Animal Handling Skills: While basic animal handling can be learned at our Adoption Centers, a general comfort and willingness to handle animals are necessary. Our team will provide further training and guidance.
- Teamwork: The ability to work cooperatively and effectively within a team environment is crucial for seamless operations and optimal patient care.
- Reliability: Consistent attendance and commitment are vital, as our veterinary team relies on dedicated volunteers to maintain our 365-day operational schedule.
Helpful Skills to Bring
While not strictly required, an understanding of animal diseases and their transmission can be particularly beneficial in this role. This awareness aids in implementing preventative measures and understanding treatment protocols more deeply.
Location and Hours of Operation
The PAWS Chicago veterinary team is committed to providing round-the-clock care for our sick and injured pets, operating 365 days a year.
Medical Center:
3516 W. 26th St.
Chicago, IL 60623
Operating Hours:
Every day: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Volunteers are scheduled within these hours, contributing to the consistent care our animals receive.
Comprehensive Training Provided
Upon joining, all new volunteers will undergo essential training to prepare them for their roles:
- Medical Center Orientation: This initial phase covers the specifics of our facility, safety protocols, and the general workflow of the Medical Center.
- Shadow Training: You will engage in hands-on shadow training with a dedicated Shelter Medicine staff member. This provides practical, on-the-job learning and mentorship.
This structured training ensures that all volunteers are well-prepared and confident in their ability to contribute meaningfully to the health and recovery of the animals at PAWS Chicago.
