Kennel Worker, (A262931-8), 202, Animal Control

About the Role

This position focuses on the prevention of zoonotic diseases, responsible and humane pet care, and pet safety within the City of Laredo Animal Care Facility. The role involves maintaining, cleaning, and disinfecting animal kennels, grounds, clinic, and buildings, as well as feeding and caring for impounded or sheltered pets to ensure their humane treatment.

Responsibilities

• Provide humane care for pets, including feeding, kennel sanitation, and disinfection.
• Maintain strict records of impounded and sheltered animals.
• Monitor kennels and animals upon arrival; report any signs of illness, health, or behavioral issues to the supervisor.
• Feed and water animals following City of Laredo Animal Care Services Department protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Clean, wash, and disinfect animal kennels, cages, feeding bowls, and watering bowls to ensure an odor-free and low-stress environment.
• Disinfect animals with insecticide to prevent flea and tick infections, adhering to infection control SOPs.
• Assist Animal Control Officers and the City Veterinarian with health care, vaccinations, and prevention efforts.
• Support observation, quarantine care, and preventive measures against zoonotic exposures; record observations in control data sheets.
• Protect pets against environmental exposures and support spay/neuter and adoption services.
• Inspect dog licenses and other animal/vector certificates for validity; collaborate with Animal Control Officers and City Staff for efficient facility operations.
• Clean offices, empty trash, mop floors, clean restrooms, and dispose of solid waste and euthanized pets humanely.
• Assist the euthanasia technician and maintain the euthanasia clinic as needed.
• Ensure all equipment and supplies for kennel work, animal care, and facility operations are operational, maintained, and inventoried.
• Maintain good communication with staff, visitors, and business contacts; follow telephone courtesy rules.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of humane animal care practices, kennel sanitation, feeding, and maintenance in an animal care facility.
• Knowledge of animal disinfection, pet management, and transferring animals from control to facility.
• Ability to perform physically demanding tasks related to animal impoundment and sheltering.
• Ability to plan, organize, and maintain schedules for pet care, observation, and facility maintenance.
• Ability to maintain harmonious working relationships and respond to public complaints professionally.
• Ability to communicate effectively in both English and Spanish, orally and in writing.
• Ability to maintain a valid Texas Driver’s License and a good driving record.
• Ability to comply with City of Laredo policies and procedures.
• Good health and physical condition sufficient to perform the duties of the position.

Qualifications

• At least one (1) year of general experience.
• Proof of TB Test/Screening required prior to employment.
• Valid Texas Driver’s License (out-of-state licenses must be converted within 6 months of employment).
• Rabies Pre-Exposure Vaccines must be obtained within one (1) month of employment.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Frequent exposure to unpleasant environmental conditions and hazards, including outdoor and confined spaces.
• Exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally, up to 50 pounds frequently, and up to 20 pounds constantly.
• Work environments include outdoor, street (near moving traffic), warehouse, and office settings.
• Exposures include extreme temperatures (below 32°F or above 100°F), communicable diseases, fumes, toxic chemicals, loud noises, and hostile or violent individuals.
• No travel requirements beyond local.