The Kennel Assistant functions include, but are not limited to, providing the care and basic needs of animals being groomed, boarded or that are patients of Lowell Animal Hospital, including cleaning of cages and runs and ward areas and the proper feeding and care of all hospitalized animals. The Kennel Assistant operates under the supervision of the Kennel Manager, Hospital Manager and Doctors.
PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
• Observe animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, disease and discontent.
• Properly handle patients as required and appropriately restrain patients as directed.
• Walk hospitalized dogs several times a day according to hospital protocol to provide exercise and time for elimination of bowels and bladder.
• Provide care for pet housed/visiting the hospital. Report signs of illness, disease, injury or unusual activity to animal health technicians/veterinarians.
• Apply knowledge of normal food and liquid requirements of animals. As required, provide special food and liquids.
• Ensure that cages and patients are properly numbered and identified and that personal property (toys, treats, blankets, leashes) are stored in the proper area and identified.
• Clean, disinfect and maintain kennels, cages, runs and litter boxes as often as is necessary to ensure no cages or kennels are soiled and odors are not apparent. Perform general cleaning in other areas of the hospital to control the spread of disease. Wash and sterilize water and food bowls.
• Wear personal protective equipment required for the area and maintain the personal protective equipment in good working order.
• Launder and dry towels and blankets.
• Know proper animal restraint techniques, assist with patient restraint.
• Deep cleaning of entire hospital.
• Clean and maintain lab and surgical supplies and equipment, when needed.
• Work well with all employees and ensure that your actions support the hospital, the doctors and the practice philosophy.
• Notify supervisor of needed maintenance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
KENNEL ASSISTANT REQUIREMENTS
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous experience caring for animals.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills.
• Physically fit and agile.
• Capacity to lift up to 50 pounds unaided.
• A passion for animal welfare.
• Available to work during evenings, and on Saturday’s.
EMOTIONAL/MENTAL REQUIREMENTS
• Must be able to work under stressful conditions and work efficiently and effectively under those conditions
• Must be able to cope with death either due to surgical complication or euthanasia
• Ability to rapidly and accurately process information
• Ability to delegate tasks
• Ability to recognize a need for assistance and ask for help
• Ability to work independently and as part of team
• Ability to make decisions
• Ability to cope with frustrating situations and remain calm
We offer above average pay, flexible hours, PTO, and health insurance. Some evenings and weekends are required.
At Lowell Animal Hospital, our team is made up of a diverse group of veterinarians and support staff professionals who bring their love for animals to work with them everyday. Our veterinary team comes from all backgrounds, and they have joined Lowell Animal Hospital because of their desire to make a difference in the lives of animals, as well as the people who love those animals.
