Dog Kennel Attendant

About us Animal Welfare Friends is a growing animal shelter & rescue out of Monticello, IA. Our environment is all inclusive, fast-paced, and engaging. Animal Welfare Friend's main priority is creating an inviting atmosphere for all. Position Summary The Kennel Attendant plays a critical role in the daily care, health, and well-being of animals at Animal Welfare Friends Shelter. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe, and enriching environment for dogs and other shelter animals while strictly following medical, safety, and behavioral protocols. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, compassionate, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced animal care setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal Care & Handling Transport animals to/from veterinary clinic in a safe manner, ensuring animals are crated or tethered appropriately. Complete medication sheets, ensuring dosage and duration are accurate. Ensure dogs are moved throughout the facility using appropriate methods - slip leads, carrying or by groups (puppies). Dogs, especially difficult or reactive ones, should not be pulled by the collar or allowed to roam freely. Clean and sanitize kennels, runs, and animal housing areas according to guidelines provided by management. Areas should be thoroughly cleaned during each shift (morning and evening deep cleans). Feed animals the correct food and portion sizes according to individual feeding instructions. Administer medications as directed and follow all medical and treatment protocols precisely. Sign off on medication sheets as appropriate. Monitor animals daily for changes in appearance, appetite, behavior, or overall health. Immediately report and document any illness, injury, behavioral concerns, bites, or incidents to supervisory staff. Properly handle sick or injured animals using approved safety and hygiene procedures. Safely separate dogs in the event of a fight or escalation, following shelter training and protocols. Ensure dogs are placed in appropriate playgroups and kept separate when required due to behavior, medical needs, or safety concerns. Enrichment & Welfare Provide regular enrichment activities to promote mental stimulation and emotional well-being. Ensure dogs receive appropriate exercise, outdoor time, and social interaction as directed. Maintain a calm, positive environment to reduce stress for animals. Facility & Support Duties Perform laundry duties, including washing, drying, and organizing bedding and towels. Clean and sanitize food and water bowls, dishes, and preparation areas. Notify staff promptly when cleaning, food, medical, or enrichment supplies are running low. Maintain overall cleanliness and organization of animal care areas. Ensure run areas are free of debris, toys, and high value treats. Appropriately sanitize concrete areas with rescue. Professional Conduct & Communication Communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally with staff and volunteers. Follow all shelter policies, procedures, and safety guidelines. Remain focused on job duties—personal phone use during shifts is not permitted. Arrive on time, work efficiently and thoroughly, and complete shifts as scheduled. Accurately complete required documentation and logs. Qualifications & Skills Genuine compassion for animals and commitment to animal welfare. Ability to follow detailed instructions, medical protocols, and safety procedures. Comfortable handling dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and health conditions. Ability to remain calm and act quickly in stressful or emergency situations. Strong observation skills and attention to detail. Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently and as part of a team. Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, lift, and perform repetitive tasks throughout a shift. Work Environment Fast-paced shelter environment with exposure to noise, cleaning chemicals, and animals. May involve handling animals that are stressed, ill, or behaviorally challenging

Job Type:

Part-time Pay:

From $11.50 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule On-the-job training Opportunities for advancement Paid training Professional development assistance

Work Location:

In person