What are the responsibilities and job description for the Canine Recreation Specialist (Dog Walker) position at Barks & Recreation (Barks & Rec)?
About Barks & Recreation
At Barks & Recreation, we believe dog care should be more than just a quick potty break—it’s an opportunity for outdoor exercise, confidence building, and mental enrichment. We provide high-quality solo walks, social outings, and structured care for pups across Richmond. We treat every dog like family and take pride in offering dependable, thoughtful care for our clients.
About the Role
We are seeking a reliable, detail-oriented, and compassionate Canine Recreation Specialist to join our team! In this role, you will lead individual and small-group dog walks, provide attentive pet care, and deliver peace of mind to local pet parents.
Whether working with a energetic young pup or a shy dog building up their confidence, you'll ensure every outing is safe, enriching, and fun.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead Outdoor Outings: Provide safe, structured, and engaging walks or visits for dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
- Tailor Care to Each Pup: Follow custom client instructions, including feeding, refreshing water, administering medication, or following specific behavioral routines.
- Client Communication: Complete detailed visit reports with photos and updates after each visit using our team app (Time To Pet).
- Maintain Safety Standards: Practice positive handling methods, manage leash safety, monitor dog body language, and uphold high safety protocols in all weather conditions.
Qualifications & Requirements
- Dog Experience: Prior experience handling dogs professionally (dog daycare, shelter work, training, vet clinics) or significant personal experience handling various temperaments. Experience with positive-reinforcement techniques is a major plus!
- Reliable Transportation: Valid driver's license, clean driving record, and a reliable personal vehicle with active auto insurance to travel between clients.
- Smartphone & Tech Savvy: A reliable smartphone with a data plan to run our mobile scheduling app and upload photos/updates during visits.
- Physical Capability: Ability to walk 3–6 miles per day, comfortable handling dogs of all sizes, and willing to work outdoors in various seasonal weather conditions (rain, heat, cold).
- Background Check: Must be 18 and able to pass a standard criminal background check.
- Professional & Trustworthy: Excellent time management, clear communication skills, and utmost respect for clients' homes and privacy.
Perks & Benefits
- Active Outdoor Job: Spend your workday outside, active, and hanging out with great dogs!
- Flexible Schedule: Great fit for animal lovers looking for supplementary income, students, or pet industry professionals.
- Keep 100% of Tips: Direct client gratuities are always yours.
- Supportive Team Culture: Work with a local business owner and team who value clear communication, proper safety training, and staff support.
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Expected hours: 10.0 – 25.0 per week
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development assistance
- Referral program
Work Location: On the road
Salary : $20