Job Description

JOB DESCRIPTION:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Boarding Kennel Assistant to help oversee the daily operations of our facility. The ideal candidate will have a passion for animal care, excellent management skills, and a commitment to delivering exceptional service to both pets and their owners.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Ensure Animal Welfare:

Maintain high standards of care and cleanliness to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all animals in the facility. This includes:

Monitoring for signs of illness or distress and taking appropriate action, including seeking veterinary care if necessary.

Administering medications as needed according to prescribed instructions and veterinary guidance.

Providing appropriate exercise and enrichment activities to promote physical and mental well-being.

Additionally, the Boarding Kennel Assistant will be responsible for:

Recognising signs of illness or injury in boarding animals and taking immediate action to address their needs.

Coordinating and taking ownership of transportation to and from veterinary clinics for animals requiring medical attention.

Ensuring prompt communication with pet owners regarding any health concerns or veterinary visits, including providing updates on the animal's condition and treatment plan.

Collaborating with veterinary professionals to ensure that animals receive necessary medical care and follow-up treatment.

Documenting all veterinary interventions, medications administered, and follow-up instructions for each animal's record.

Providing compassionate care and support to animals during illness or recovery periods, including monitoring their condition closely and adjusting care as needed to promote healing and comfort if required

Customer Service:

Serve as the primary point of contact for pet owners, providing exceptional customer service by addressing inquiries, resolving issues, and ensuring that all clients feel confident in entrusting their pets to our care. Be the point of contact if any issues are brought to our attention and ensure that these are dealt with promptly and fully.

Reservation Management:

Coordinate and oversee the boarding reservation process, including scheduling, check-in, and check-out procedures. Maintain accurate records of reservations, vaccinations, and other pertinent information for each animal in our care.

Facility Maintenance:

Monitor and maintain the cleanliness and safety of the kennel facility, including indoor and outdoor play areas, sleeping quarters, and grooming stations. Regularly inspect facilities for any maintenance or repair needs and take appropriate action to address issues promptly.

Inventory Management:

Monitor inventory levels of supplies, including food, bedding, and cleaning materials, and place orders as needed to ensure adequate stock levels.

Compliance and Regulations:

Stay informed about relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards related to animal care, health, and safety. Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations, including licensing requirements, sanitation standards, and animal welfare laws.

Continuous Improvement:

Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement strategies to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction. Solicit feedback from clients and staff to identify areas for improvement and implement solutions to address concerns.

Reporting to Business Owners

Collaborating with the business owner to establish and uphold the kennel's standards of care and operational procedures.

Providing regular updates to the business owner on the overall performance of the kennel, including occupancy rates, customer feedback, and any operational challenges or successes.

SKILLS:

Animal Care and Handling:

Ability to understand and meet the needs of various animals, including feeding, grooming, exercise, and basic medical care.

Communication:

Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact effectively with pet owners, staff members, veterinarians, and other stakeholders.

Customer Service:

Commitment to providing exceptional customer service, including addressing inquiries, resolving complaints, and ensuring client satisfaction.

Organisation and Time Management:

Skill in managing multiple tasks and priorities efficiently, including scheduling reservations, coordinating staff assignments, and overseeing facility maintenance.

Problem-Solving:

Ability to identify issues or challenges and implement effective solutions in a timely manner, including addressing animal health concerns, operational issues, and customer feedback.

Attention to Detail:

Thoroughness and accuracy in managing records, administering medications, and monitoring animal behavior and health status.

Flexibility and Adaptability:

Willingness to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, including adjusting schedules, handling emergencies, and accommodating changing customer needs.

Knowledge of Animal Health and Behavior:

Understanding of basic animal physiology, health indicators, and behavior patterns to recognise signs of illness or distress and provide appropriate care.

Teamwork and Collaboration:

Ability to work collaboratively with kennel staff, veterinarians, and business owners to achieve common goals and maintain high standards of care and service.

Attention to Safety:

Commitment to ensuring the safety of animals, staff, and visitors by adhering to safety protocols, maintaining a clean and hazard-free environment, and implementing emergency procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS/EXPERIENCE:

A Level 2 OFQUAL qualification in Animal Care is Essential for Licensing purposes

Previous experience working in a boarding kennel or similar animal care facility is desired.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a passion for providing excellent customer service. Knowledge of animal behavior, health, and nutrition. Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Flexibility to work weekends, Bank holidays, and evenings as needed.
Job Types: Part-time, Temporary, Zero hours contract
Contract length: 4-6 months

Pay: 12.25 per hour

Expected hours: 14 - 30 per week

Benefits:

Employee discount Free parking On-site parking
Schedule:

Day shift Weekend availability
Experience:

professional animal care: 1 year (preferred)
Licence/Certification:

Level 2 OfQual Animal Care qualification or above (preferred) Driving Licence (preferred)
Work Location: In person