What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Technician position at Lange Animal Hospital?
Department: Boarding
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
Lange Animal Hospital is a well-established, full-service small animal veterinary practice located in Knoxville, TN. We are committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care to all of our patients, and our experienced team works together to ensure the health and well-being of every animal in our care. Our state-of-the-art facility allows us to provide a wide range of services, from routine wellness exams to complex surgeries, and we pride ourselves on fostering a welcoming and positive environment for both pets and their families.
We are seeking a Kennel Technician to join our dynamic team. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working with animals, is comfortable in a fast-paced environment, and is eager to contribute to the care of pets in a hospital setting. You will play an important role in maintaining a clean, safe, and healthy environment for all animals staying at our facility, as well as providing them with the care and attention they need during their stay.
As a Kennel Technician at Lange Animal Hospital, you will be responsible for the day-to-day care of hospitalized, boarded, and grooming patients. This includes feeding, cleaning, exercising, and ensuring the comfort and well-being of all animals in the kennel area. You will work closely with the veterinary team to ensure that animals are monitored for health concerns and receive appropriate attention throughout their stay.
The Kennel Technician plays an essential role in maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment for our patients, which directly impacts the quality of care provided by our veterinary team. You will also have the opportunity to interact with clients and help communicate important information related to their pets’ care.
Key Responsibilities
Animal Care and Handling:
- Feeding and Watering: Ensure all hospitalized, boarded, or grooming animals are fed and have access to fresh water, following feeding guidelines provided by the veterinarian.
- Cleanliness and Sanitation: Maintain a clean and sanitary environment for all animals, including cleaning cages, kennels, and other animal enclosures. This includes disinfecting surfaces, bedding, and ensuring proper waste disposal.
- Exercise and Socialization: Provide exercise and enrichment activities for animals in the kennel to help reduce stress and promote their well-being. This includes walking dogs, playing with pets, and offering companionship.
- Health Monitoring: Observe animals for any signs of illness, injury, or distress, and report concerns to the veterinary staff for evaluation and care. Monitor and record behaviors and any changes in condition.
- Medication Administration: Administer medications as directed by the veterinarian, including oral medications, topical treatments, and other prescribed therapies. Ensure accurate documentation of any treatments or changes to a pet’s health.
- Restocking and Supplies: Ensure that the kennel area is always well-stocked with necessary supplies, including food, cleaning materials, bedding, and medications. Assist with ordering and inventory management as needed.
- Client Communication: Interact with pet owners during drop-off and pick-up, providing them with updates on their pets’ condition and care while at the hospital.
- Discharge and Check-In: Assist clients with the check-in and check-out process for boarded or hospitalized pets, including reviewing instructions for aftercare, medications, and any other relevant information.
- Client Education: Educate clients on basic pet care and offer tips on maintaining their pet’s health and comfort while staying at the hospital.
- Facility Cleanliness: Ensure the cleanliness of the entire kennel area, including common spaces and any public areas that may be used by clients. Maintain a safe, well-organized work environment.
- Equipment Care: Properly handle and clean equipment used for animal care, including cages, cleaning tools, and feeding bowls. Ensure that all equipment is functioning properly and safely.
- Collaborate with Veterinary Staff: Work closely with veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and support staff to provide comprehensive care to hospitalized and boarding animals. Be proactive in offering assistance when needed.
- Assist with Animal Handling: Provide support in handling animals during examinations, treatments, or procedures, as directed by the veterinary team. This includes restraining animals safely and comfortably when required.
- Emergency Situations: Assist the veterinary team during emergencies, ensuring that animals are safely managed and that necessary actions are taken in a timely manner.
Education and Experience:
- High School Diploma or Equivalent required. Additional training in animal care or veterinary technology is a plus.
- Previous experience working with animals, ideally in a kennel, veterinary hospital, or animal care setting, is highly preferred.
- Animal Handling: Comfortable and confident in handling a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, and small mammals. Ability to safely restrain animals when necessary and assess their behavior.
- Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail when caring for animals, monitoring their health, administering medications, and ensuring cleanliness and safety.
- Teamwork: Ability to work well within a team environment, following instructions from veterinarians and other staff members while maintaining a positive and collaborative attitude.
- Communication: Strong verbal communication skills to interact with both the veterinary team and clients. Ability to provide clear updates to clients and answer basic questions about their pet’s stay.
- Physical Stamina: Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including walking, lifting, and cleaning, for extended periods.
- Compassionate: Genuine care for animals and a strong desire to ensure their comfort and well-being during their stay.
- Reliable and Responsible: Dependable with a strong work ethic and a commitment to the responsibilities of the role.
- Positive Attitude: Friendly and approachable with a positive attitude, especially in high-stress situations.
- Calm Under Pressure: Ability to stay calm and focused in emergency situations, while maintaining a safe and controlled environment for both animals and staff.
- Competitive Compensation: Salary based on experience, with opportunities for performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for full-time employees, as well as paid time off (PTO) and paid holidays.
- Employee Discounts: Discounts on pet care, services, and products offered at Lange Animal Hospital.
- Training and Development: Ongoing training to improve skills and knowledge in animal care. Opportunity to expand your knowledge of veterinary medicine and animal health.
- Supportive Work Environment: A collaborative, friendly, and supportive team environment where your contributions are valued.
- Opportunity for Growth: Potential for career advancement within the hospital, with opportunities to grow into other roles, such as veterinary technician or management, depending on experience and performance.