Dog Kennel Job Listing

Title: Dog Caretaker/Handler

Job Description:

It’s hard to have a “Ruff” day when you get to play with a group of dogs! At Happy Tails of Altamont, we offer Doggy Play-Care (Daycare) and Overnight Boarding. For over 15 years, customers have trusted us to take care of their beloved canines. Who doesn’t know someone that has a companion in the form of a slobbery, snuggly pup?

We are looking for a hard-working, animal-loving, self-motivated, dedicated individual to join in on the fun of caring for these precious pups…will it be you? You will be a hands-on caretaker responsible for providing a safe, fun, and positive experience for the dogs that come visit us, as well as the customers we serve.

Our operation differs from a ‘normal’ kennel, in that the dogs (40 is our maximum capacity) are allowed to play together in a group(s) for two hours in the morning (8am-10am) and two hours in the afternoon (4pm-6pm). Additionally, the kennel is open for customer pick-ups and drop-offs during this same time window, meaning you will be responsible for checking dogs in and out of the computer system and interacting directly with their owners. The kennel is closed from 10am-4pm most days. Weekend hours vary slightly. You'll have the ability to work short shifts and still have plenty of time for yourself outside of work.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Supervising dogs during open play and while in kennels, while always monitoring for cleanliness, safety, and health.
• Maintain cleanliness of the kennels, outside yards, indoor play areas, and office area. This may include, but is not limited to, sweeping, mopping, emptying trash, pressure washing kennels, organizing office areas, disinfecting surfaces, and cleaning food and water bowls.
• Interact with customers to acquire and record all information needed to properly care for their animal(s) while at Happy Tails.
• Preparing and delivering food and water to individual dogs.
• Administering medications as needed.
• Play and have fun with the dogs!

Hours:

• Single Shift Applicants (morning or afternoon only) will be considered, as well as double shift applicants (morning and afternoon availability). Weekend and holiday availability required, but we will work out a rotating type schedule. Applicant must be able to work a minimum of 3 days per week.
• Morning kennel hours are 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM. Applicant is expected to arrive early enough to accept customers at 8am (7:45am).
• Afternoon open kennel hours are 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Applicant is expected to arrive early enough to accept customers at 4PM (3:45pm arrival, weekend hours are typically a little earlier and more flexible which still allows time for personal plans).
• Opportunity to add extra shifts or 30-minute bedtime dog let-outs.
• Skills:
• Be able to communicate efficiently and effectively with customers, animals, and team members.
• Flexibility, working with live animals is never a perfect science.
• Must be able to handle dogs of all sizes and dispositions/temperaments while maintaining professionalism and following standard procedures.

Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years or older to apply
• Required: Previous Dog Handling Experience or Job Experience in the Pet Industry
• Preferred: Education in Animal Sciences or Animal Industry
• Examples: Canine Management or Equine Training
• Punctual, as we have customers arriving during open hours and dogs will need to be let out in a timely manner.
• Able to work independently and on a team

*This is a non-smoking facility.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $15.00 - $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Holidays
• Night shift
• Weekend availability

Supplemental pay types:

• Tips

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Altamont, NY 12009: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Experience:

• Pet Daycare & Boarding Occupations: 1 year (Preferred)
• Pet Care or Pet Industry: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person