Jessica Samsa
Bemidji
Summary
Compassionate Veterinary Assistant and Laboratory Animal Caretaker experienced in supporting veterinarians during procedures and maintaining organized clinical environments. Improved animal care protocols and clinic efficiency through strong interpersonal skills and adaptability in fast-paced settings. Thrived under pressure while consistently delivering high-quality care and quickly mastering new responsibilities.
Overview
25
25
years of professional experience
Work History
Veterinary Assistant Team Lead
Animal Care Clinic Bemidji
Bemidji
12.2009 - Current
- Delivered emergency first aid to sick or injured animals, improving chances of recovery and ensuring timely care.
- Assisted veterinarians in performing surgical procedures by preparing the operating room, monitoring anesthesia levels, and administering medications to animals.
- Administered vaccinations and performed routine laboratory tests to check for any abnormalities in an animal's health
- Monitored vital signs of hospitalized animals including temperature, pulse rate, and respiration rate.
- Determined appropriate dosages of medication based on weight calculations using veterinary scales.
- Obtained information and history from clients to maintain medical charts.
- Communicated with clients regarding their pet's health status or progress reports following a procedure or illness diagnosis.
- Triaged scheduled or emergency patients to route to the appropriate surgeon or treatment area.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of clinic facilities and treatment areas.
- Provided leadership and guidance to team members, ensuring that tasks were completed on time and to a high standard.
- Delegated daily tasks to team members to optimize group productivity.
- Assisted with polishing, removing stains and other dental procedures.
- Promoted to a leadership position in recognition of strong work ethic and provided exceptional customer service.
- Shaved surgical areas and placed IV catheters in preparation for surgery.
- Dispensed prescription medications upon request from veterinarians.
General Merchandise Manager
Luekens Village Foods
Bemidji
06.2003 - 01.2010
- Managed inventory levels to ensure product availability and minimize stockouts.
- Collaborated with suppliers to select high-quality products for store offerings.
- Implemented promotional displays to attract customers and drive sales growth.
- Identified items for reordering and replenishment and reported merchandise needs to Grocery Manager.
- Stocked shelves with newly arrived items and organized existing stock for efficient access.
- Provided excellent customer service by greeting customers, responding to inquiries, and resolving complaints in a professional manner.
- Operated forklift, flatbed and hand jack to receive, rotate and replenish products.
Horseback Trail Guide
Rising Star Ranch
Park Rapids
05.2001 - 05.2004
- Coordinated enjoyable group trail rides, enhancing rider experience and family engagement.
- Maintained barns, stalls, and paddocks, ensuring safety and cleanliness for optimal horse care.
- Managed urgent incidents related to horse or rider safety.
- Maintained barns, stalls, and paddocks, ensuring safety and cleanliness for optimal horse care.
- Inspected equipment before each use for signs of wear or damage, making repairs as required.
Education
Equine Sports Massage Therapist ( ESMT) - Equine Sports Massage
Equissage
08.2005 - 08.2005
GED
Bemidji, MNNorthwest Technical College
Bemidji, MNSkills
- Veterinary triage
- Animal restraint
- Anesthesia monitoring
- Diagnostic imaging
- Dental prophylaxis
- Medical charting
- Patient handling
- Patient flow management
- Time management
- Multitasking
- Teamwork
- Compassionate Animal Care
- Client communication
Affiliations
Traveling, camping, biking, a nature enthusiast.
Spending time at home with friends and family and my fur babies.
Timeline
Veterinary Assistant Team Lead
Animal Care Clinic Bemidji
12.2009 - Current
Equine Sports Massage Therapist ( ESMT) - Equine Sports Massage
Equissage
08.2005 - 08.2005
General Merchandise Manager
Luekens Village Foods
06.2003 - 01.2010
Horseback Trail Guide
Rising Star Ranch
05.2001 - 05.2004
GED
Northwest Technical College