This is professional work in veterinary medicine in a Metro-Dade County animal services program.

An employee in this class is responsible for the professional care and treatment of animals and implementation of various animal control programs. Responsibilities include interpreting standards and laws related to the care, control and disposition of impounded dogs, assisting in the enforcement of laws pertaining to animal control, serving as a technical consultant to health officers and various agencies, implementing a program for the control of veterinary communicable diseases, directing local canine rabies control and eradication programs, and examining all dogs impounded and providing appropriate treatment or veterinary medical procedures. The incumbent exercises considerable independent judgment and technical expertise in applying the principles of veterinary medicine in the operation of an animal services program. Supervision may be exercised over assigned subordinates assisting with various phases of activities. Supervision is received from a professional superior who reviews work through personal conferences and written reports for achievement of established goals and objectives.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS

Assists in the enforcement of County and state laws pertaining to animal control and dog bites, and assists in the prosecution of offenders.

Determines the program and procedures to be used on biological specimens; participates in or supervises autopsies on animals to isolate the etiological agent or disease causing death; interprets laboratory findings.

Implements a program for the control of veterinary communicable diseases; serves as technical consultant to health officers and professional associates, official and voluntary agencies, and the public in recommending effective control procedures and offering diagnostic services.

Directs canine rabies control and eradication programs within the metropolitan area; assists in planning local disease control program; obtains samples and diagnoses diseases; implements vaccination or other corrective actions.

Examines all dogs impounded; directs the separation of diseased dogs for treatment or other disposition; innoculates, spays or neuters all dogs when required by law prior to redemption or adoption.

Prepares activity reports of inspections, tests and laboratory analyses.

Regularly observes all impounded dogs to ensure proper treatment of any animal showing signs of illness or injury.

Performs euthanasia when required in accordance with local laws and recognized humane practices.

Meets with civic organizations and others to provide animal services and control information.

Exercises responsibility for ordering, safekeeping and use of all drugs necessary in the treatment of dogs; maintains complete and accurate records.

Performs related work as required.

KNOWLEDGES, ABILITIES, AND SKILLS

Extensive knowledge of the theories, principles and practices of veterinary medicine.

Thorough knowledge of county and state animal control laws and regulations.

Thorough knowledge of methods and practices for the maintenance of clean and humane conditions for impounded dogs.

Thorough knowledge of public relations principles and techniques.

Considerable knowledge of the principles of management and public administration.

Ability to apply the priniciples and practices of veterinary medicine to local animal services operations and activities.

Ability to deal tactfully, diplomatically, persuasively and firmly with members of the public.

Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, verbally and in writing.

Ability to perform veterinary medical research, analyze results and present reports of findings.

Ability to direct and implement various programs in the control of veterinary communicable diseases.