An Animal Care Worker or Manager manages animal care and grooming for a retail store that sells pets or for a pet grooming business. May also provide animal care and grooming at a kennel. Works with animals in shelters or rescue organizations. Works primarily with dogs and cats. Assists veterinarians with vaccinations or other procedures; screens people who want to adopt an animal from a shelter and provides information about caring for animals.
At Petland, happy, healthy pets are our number one priority. We are seeking a compassionate, hard-working animal care associate to join our team and ensure our puppies and kittens receive the highest quality of daily care. Job Summary As an Animal Care Associate, you will be on the front lines of animal health and happiness. Your primary focus will be maintaining a spotless environment, feeding our animals, and monitoring their well-being. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role that requires physical stamina and deep attention to detail. The Importance of Attendance Our puppies and kittens cannot feed or care for themselves. They rely entirely on us every single day for their health, safety, and comfort. Because their well-being is our number one priority, excellent attendance and punctual arrival for your shifts are absolute requirements for this role. Missing a shift directly impacts the care our animals receive, making reliability the most critical qualification for our team.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Perform daily opening, mid-day, and closing kennel cleaning and sanitizing procedures. Wash, disinfect, and maintain all animal enclosures to strict company standards. Feed and water puppies and kittens according to exact nutritional schedules. Monitor all animals daily for signs of illness, injury, or behavioral changes. Assist the store veterinarian during routine exams and carefully administer medications. Maintain accurate, up-to-date health and care records for every animal. Handle, socialize, and exercise pets safely to support their development.
What We're Looking For:
High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience preferred. Previous experience in animal care is a plus but not required. Genuine love for animals, a strong commitment to their welfare, and willingness to learn. Ability to work well in a team environment and follow strict safety guidelines. Excellent observational skills to spot subtle changes in animal health. Flexibility to work day, evening, and weekend shifts.
Basic Physical & Environmental Requirements:
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shifts. Comfort lifting, pushing, or pulling up to 50 lbs. Ability to bend, kneel, and reach repeatedly to clean enclosures. Comfortable handling and interacting safely with puppies and kittens.
Environmental Notice:
This position requires constant, direct exposure to live animals, pet dander, dust, and cleaning solutions. For your health and safety, this role may not be recommended for individuals with severe, unmanageable allergies to puppies, kittens or standard pet environments.
Schedule:
Day shift, evening shift, weekends, and holidays as needed. Join us and be part of something meaningful—connecting pets with loving families.
