Animal Caretaker

Job Description

ANIMAL CARETAKER

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GENERAL DEFINITION OF WORK:

Under general supervision, performs a combination of technical and custodial duties in support of the Sheriff's Office Animal Shelter's operations. Duties include cleaning and maintaining shelter cages and facility structures and recording information and activities. Performs responsible, routine work in the field of animal care; provides direct services to the animals and assists volunteers, visitors, and residents of Stafford County. Work is conducted at the direction of the Shelter Manager or Assistant Manager.

Examples of Duties

• Greets customers and provides intake documents
• Receives, processes, handles and transports animals
• Feeds, waters and provides general care for animals at the shelter
• Cleans and disinfects the shelter, its cages, equipment and structures - ensures facility is neat, orderly and clean
• Performs work in the general maintenance of the shelter facility - makes minor repairs to equipment
• Observes animals for illness
• Administers medications, assists with vaccinations and schedules veterinary checks to care for animal health
• Washes and removes external parasites for animals
• Prepares and maintains information related to animal tests; records; adoptions; and related health information
• Provides information and assistance regarding department services through telephone calls and direct person on-site customer service
• Communicates with the general public concerning adoption, release and redemption of animals
• Dispatches citizen complaint calls to Animal Control Officers
• Inputs and retrieves information on the computer such as records on dog licenses, citizen complaints, and shelter information
• Performs related tasks of a similar nature or level as required

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• General knowledge of the care and feeding of domesticated animals and necessary safety precautions
• General knowledge of animal breeds and common animal diseases
• Demonstrated interest in animals
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions
• Ability to follow precise instructions for dispensing medication
• Ability to handle animals in a humane manner and without personal injury
• Ability to move heavy, immobilized, or resistant animals
• Ability to assist the public and communicate effectively
• Ability to read animal behavior and maintain a safe environment
• Ability to document behavior in clear language based on observable behavior
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and avoid negative interpersonal altercations
• Ability to use a computer and standard business software

Education and Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent and six (6) months experience cleaning or handling domestic animals; OR any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Note: All employees are required to have direct deposit of their bi-weekly paychecks into one or more financial institution(s) of their choice. Information must be presented at time of hire.

Proper Identification must be shown at time of hire in order to complete the necessary paperwork for compliance with the Immigration Control and Reform Act of 1986.