Kennel Caretaker

Kennel Caretaker

OVERVIEW

We are looking for a Kennel Caretaker to join our growing non-profit organization this Spring.We are a Rescue Sanctuary for dogs that has been in the industry since 2004. Our Mission is to rescue dogs from shelters, rehabilitate them and find them permanent homes.

We have a very welcoming and family type of work environment; one that is hard to find. Our facility, located in Valley Center, has a park-like feel, with trees, open land, and picnic tables.The environment is very family oriented, the people are supportive of each other and work together cohesively as a team.

REQUIREMENTS

The incumbent must have a positive, friendly disposition and must love animals.

Must have the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Experience working with large dog breeds is a must, with a minimum of 3-5 + years of kennel and dog handling experience.

This position will require you to be on your feet most of the day.

You must have the ability to lift up to 50lbs regularly.

Must be able to move safely over uneven terrain or in confined spaces.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Daily, thorough cleaning and sanitation of dog kennels, outdoor Daycare Kennel Runs and Play Yards.

Safely moving dogs daily to/from Kennel Lodge to Daycare Kennel Runs and Play Yards throughout the rescue in the AM/PM and throughout the day, based on protocol and immediate need.

Preparing of food and feeding, including providing special diets as needed.

Proper administering of medication to rescue dogs.

Ensure the rescue dog’s water needs are met by filling water buckets in the Kennel Lodge, Kennel Runs and Play Yards and daily sanitizing water buckets.

Observe animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, disease and discontent in an ongoing basis (medical or behavioral) reporting them to management immediately (i.e. if a dog is physically showing distress, rapid breathing, lethargy, act of choking, spinning, panic attacks where dogs spin, jump, bark non-stop)

Assisting Adoption Counselors with Meet & Greet appointments by moving dogs to/from a Kennel Run or Play Yard, or by bringing a rescue dog to the Adoption Counselor.

Preparing Post Adoption pack, food & medication instructions, giving new leashes, taking off operational leashes

Complete daily Dog Care Log with notes on the dog’s health including food consumption, fecal consistency, medications administered, and overall behavior of the dog (i.e. does the dog look lethargic, no appetite, soft stools)

Bathe, groom and provide Tender Loving Care to rescue dogs

Stocking supplies as needed

Providing transportation for dogs as needed to vets or from shelters

Washing and sanitizing dog bowls, slow feeders, toys, and other dishes following feeding time in the AM and PM.

Providing a healthy, safe, clean and pleasant environment and facilities for the dogs and the public per organization Guidelines

Upkeep of rescue grounds including removing rocks, sticks, leaves and debris around kennel grounds

Working courteously and cooperatively with other team members, volunteers, management, and rescue partners

Attending and partaking in department meetings

Starting pay is between $17-$20 an hour. Pay is commensurate with experience. When responding, include a resume and or list the places you have worked for in the last 10 years, including the name of the Company, and your Job Description. Also, please indicate why you are interested in joining our team.