Service Dog Trainer

About Us:

Veterans Moving Forward is a nonprofit organization dedicated to raising and training service and therapy dogs for Veterans and Veteran organization at no cost. We pride ourselves on ensuring every dog feels comfortable and loved while with us, providing the best possible partners for our Nation’s Veterans.

Job Overview:

The Service Dog Trainer reports directly to the Director of Programs and Training and is responsible for training service dogs, facility/therapy dogs, and emotional support dogs for veterans with physical and/or mental health challenges. Must be knowledgeable in training for PTSD episodes, nightmare interruptions, mobility assistance, and/or medical alert. Service Dog Trainer is also responsible for program volunteers and administrative tasks such as maintaining inventory, maintaining veterinary and health records, and ordering food, supplements, etc., for canines.

Duties and Responsibilities

·      Document daily progress with written reports and/or video records where appropriate 

·      Train dogs in basic and advance obedience using established training techniques 

·      Train dogs for tasks needed to assist veterans with physical and/or mental disabilities 

·      Identify and document any behavioral issues, create a plan to address them 

·      Lead training classes and/or private lessons for volunteer Puppy Raisers/Sitters

·      Ensure training areas are clean and organized 

·      Feed, water, and walk the dogs as required 

·      Comply with and discuss instruction techniques as directed by the Director 

·      Socialize and train dogs in public settings 

·      Assist with placing dogs with veterans 

·      Effectively manage canine volunteers and Kennel Assistants in basic commands and care of the dogs 

·      Participate in fund raising and other public events

·      Perform other duties as required by the Head Trainer or Program Director  

·      Physically capable of performing duties that require regular bending, lifting, stooping, stretching, and lifting to 75 lbs. 

·      Able to control and restrain large breed service dogs 

·      Able to give direction and work well with volunteers and staff

·      Create and maintain programmatic inventory 

·      Order food, supplements, etc. for canines 

·      Keep and maintain veterinary and health records  

·      Mentor and Guide Assistant Trainers

Qualifications:

·      Certification from an accredited training program required. 

·      Minimum of 1-3 years of experience within a dog training environment. 

·      Excellent written, verbal, organizational skills required.  

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and a brief cover letter detailing their experience with animals to Admin@vetsfwd.org

Veterans Moving Forward is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.