K9 Caretaker

K9s For Warriors is the nation’s largest provider of service dogs to veterans suffering from the invisible wounds of war, such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Our unique, in-house program helps change the lives of American heroes by pairing them with a battle buddy, who was likely a rescue dog and then teaching him or her to utilize that dog to mitigate the symptoms of their wounds. In order to continue the great work, we are doing, we are in need of a K9 Caretaker to join our amazing team!

Basic Function

The K9 Caretaker supports the proper operation of the kennels, to include cleaning/maintaining kennel facilities, feeding the dogs, caring for the dogs, and ensuring the overall safety of the kennel facilities and dogs.

Essential Functions And Duties

• Responsible for all cleaning, feeding, bathing and animal handling in accordance with K9s for Warriors policies and procedures
• Responsible for complying with all safety procedures while working in the kennels, with special emphasis on animal handling and proper use of cleaning chemicals
• Observe, assess, and ensure all dog behavior and health concerns are dealt with in accordance with K9s for Warriors guidelines, reporting any concerns or changes to Lead K9 Caretaker or Kennel Management
• Participate and provide enrichment to dogs with direction from Enrichment team
• Follow instruction given by Veterinary Staff to assist in care of dogs
• Handle dogs humanely and safely at all times
• Report maintenance concerns to the Lead K9 Caretaker or Kennel Management, assist with dissemination of incoming products and ordering
• Assist with maintaining building and equipment, including but not limited to interior and exterior of building, grounds, kennel areas, yard maintenance/equipment
• Respond to the operational needs of the kennel as directed by the Lead K9 Caretaker and/or Kennel Management
• Follow and promote all K9s For Warriors’ policies and procedures
• Identify opportunities to improve the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of the dogs in K9s For Warriors’ care and bring ideas and suggestions to appropriate supervisor
• Complete kennel and enrichment logs and associated paperwork completely and accurately
  
  

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by the Kennel Manager and Assistant Kennel Managers
• Maintain good communication with kennel staff and other departments
  
  

Maintain good working relationships with all kennel and organization employees

Qualifications

• High school degree or equivalent
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and rotating schedule
  
  

Physical Demands

Ability to exert a moderate to extensive amount of physical effort, including stooping, crouching, pushing, pulling, walking stairs, climbing, and lifting up to fifty (50) pounds individually. Exposure to unpleasant odors or sounds, cleaning chemicals, loud noises, and inclement weather. Must be able to operate power tools, pressure washers, lawn equipment, etc

Core Competencies

• Attention to Detail
• Teamwork
• Integrity