Kennel Assistant - Paws & Claws

About the role

Paws & Claws is a small animal clinic in Hendersonville, Tennessee, known for its high-quality care and strong community support. We are looking for a Lead Kennel Assistant to join our dedicated team.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care to boarding pets and hospitalized patients, including feeding, watering, and exercising them according to schedule.
• Handle check-ins and check-outs, talking with owners, recording feeding/medication instructions, labeling belongings, and ensuring every pet goes home clean and happy.
• Monitor patient health by walking through the kennel area regularly to check for abnormal activity (vomiting, diarrhea, stress), properly marking records, and reporting issues to doctors and technicians immediately.
• Administer medications and flea/tick control to pets boarding with us, accurately recording instructions on the kennel medication board.
• Maintain a clean environment by cleaning and disinfecting cages, runs, yards, litter boxes, and bowls using proper protocols and personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Deliver extra "TLC" playtimes, walks, or baths for clients who have requested special attention for their pets.

Requirements

• Confidence around animals and pets.
• Knowledge of proper animal restraint techniques and infectious disease control.
• Must be 16 years of age or older.
• Must be in the process of obtaining or have attained a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Reasoning, remembering, and language ability (reading, writing, and speaking English) to perform duties proficiently.
• A commitment to maintaining our Core Values and Mission Statement.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience in animal care and handling.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong communication skills.

Skills

• Animal care and handling.
• Medication administration.
• Infectious disease control.
• Customer service.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision insurance, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), 401k retirement options, life insurance, disability coverage, and educational assistance for veterinary technician programs.

Pay

Competitive hourly rate or salary based on experience and role.

Schedule

Hours vary but typically include weekends and evenings.