Description

College Way Animal Hospital, a Thrive Pet Healthcare Partner, is hiring a Part-Time Kennel Assistant.

Apply today!
Position Summary

We are seeking a dependable, compassionate, and hardworking Veterinary Kennel Assistant to join our busy small animal general practice. This position plays a vital role in providing exceptional care to hospitalized and boarding patients while maintaining a clean, safe, and organized hospital environment. The ideal candidate enjoys working in a fast-paced setting, is comfortable around dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments, and takes pride in supporting the veterinary team.
Essential Responsibilities
Animal Care

• Provide daily care for hospitalized and boarding patients, including feeding, watering, walking, exercising, and monitoring comfort.
• Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, runs, litter boxes, and treatment areas according to hospital protocols.
• Observe patients for changes in behavior, appetite, elimination, or overall condition and promptly report concerns to veterinary staff.
• Safely handle and restrain dogs and cats using low-stress handling techniques.
• Administer medications as directed and permitted by hospital protocols and state regulations.

Hospital Maintenance

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and organized hospital environment.
• Wash laundry, dishes, and animal bedding throughout the day.
• Restock supplies and notify supervisors when inventory is low.
• Dispose of medical and general waste according to safety protocols.
• Assist with opening and closing cleaning duties.

Veterinary Team Support

• Assist veterinarians and veterinary technicians with patient restraint during examinations and treatments.
• Prepare examination rooms and treatment areas.
• Transport patients throughout the hospital safely.
• Help maintain accurate treatment and boarding records.
• Support the team during busy appointments, surgeries, and emergencies as needed.

Client Service

• Greet clients professionally and courteously.
• Review instructions and communicate patient needs to the veterinary team.
• Answer basic client questions regarding services while referring medical questions to licensed staff.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience working with animals is preferred but not required.
• Experience in veterinary medicine, animal boarding, daycare, shelter medicine, or pet care is a plus.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure and adapt to changing priorities.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Physical Requirements

This position requires the ability to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Frequently bend, kneel, crouch, and lift.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds independently and more with assistance.
• Safely handle animals of various sizes and temperaments.
• Work in environments with animal dander, cleaning chemicals, noise, and occasional unpleasant odors.

Schedule

• Weekday, weekend, and holiday availability may be required.
• Flexible scheduling based on hospital needs.

Benefits (for eligible employees)

• Competitive hourly pay
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• Retirement plan with employer match (if offered)
• Employee pet care discounts
• Continuing education opportunities
• Uniform allowance (if applicable)

Desired Qualities

Successful candidates are:

• Compassionate toward animals and their owners.
• Dependable and self-motivated.
• Detail-oriented and organized.
• Able to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Positive, professional, and respectful team members.
• Committed to maintaining a clean and safe hospital.

Compensation is negotiable based on credentials and experience with an hourly pay rate starting at $17 - $20 / hour. The actual rate offered will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and location.