We’re Hiring!
Job Title: Animal Shelter Dog Care Attendant
Hours: Full Time, 36-40 hours per week
Reports to: Shelter Manager/Director of Animal Care
Position Summary
The Animal Shelter Dog Care Attendant is responsible for providing daily care, enrichment, exercise, training support, and monitoring for dogs housed at the shelter. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the physical and emotional well-being of shelter dogs while supporting their successful adoption into permanent homes. The ideal candidate will have previous dog handling experience, a strong understanding of canine behavior, and the ability to work safely with dogs of varying sizes, breeds, temperaments, and behavioral needs.
Key Responsibilities
Dog Care & Welfare
Provide daily feeding, watering, and monitoring of shelter dogs.
Clean and sanitize kennels, exercise yards, food dishes, enrichment items, and dog housing areas.
Observe and document changes in health, behavior, and appetite.
Administer medications and treatments as directed and trained.
Ensure all dogs receive appropriate care, comfort, and enrichment.
Dog Handling & Enrichment
Safely handle dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
Exercise dogs through walks, playgroups, enrichment activities, and training sessions.
Utilize low-stress handling techniques and positive reinforcement methods.
Assist with behavior modification programs under the guidance of shelter management.
Implement enrichment plans designed to reduce stress and improve adoptability.
Work confidently with fearful, reactive, or behaviorally challenged dogs.
Behavior Monitoring
Monitor and document canine behavior and progress.
Report behavioral concerns, medical issues, or safety risks immediately.
Assist with behavior assessments and training programs.
Support dogs in developing skills that improve adoption success.
Shelter Operations
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment.
Follow all disease prevention and biosecurity protocols.
Assist with dog intake, transfers, adoptions, and owner reunifications.
Ensure accurate record keeping related to animal care and behavior.
Public Interaction
Provide information to adopters regarding dog behavior, training, and care.
Assist with adoption meet-and-greets when required.
Promote positive interactions between shelter dogs and potential adopters.
Represent the organization professionally and compassionately
Teamwork
Work collaboratively with shelter staff, volunteers, veterinarians, and trainers.
Participate in training opportunities and staff meetings.
Assist with emergency situations involving animals as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Required
High School Diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent.
Previous dog handling experience in a shelter, rescue, boarding kennel, daycare, veterinary clinic, or similar environment.
Valid driver's license.
Ability to safely handle dogs of all sizes and temperaments.
Strong communication and teamwork skills.
Ability to work weekends, holidays, and occasional evenings.
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and perform physically demanding work.
Preferred
Certification in dog training, canine behavior, animal care, or related field.
Experience working with behaviorally challenged dogs.
Knowledge of positive reinforcement training methods.
Experience administering medications.
Animal First Aid certification.
Working Conditions
Exposure to animal noise, odors, cleaning chemicals, and allergens.
Frequent standing, walking, bending, lifting, and outdoor work in various weather conditions.
Potential exposure to fearful, reactive, or aggressive dogs.
Fast-paced environment requiring flexibility and sound judgment.
Core Competencies
Compassion for animals and people.
Strong understanding of canine behavior and body language.
Excellent observation and reporting skills.
Reliability and accountability.
Ability to remain calm under pressure.
Commitment to animal welfare and humane treatment.
Compensation & Benefits
Compensation is based on experience and qualifications. Benefits may include paid time off, health benefits, professional development opportunities, employee assistance programs, and other organizational benefits.
To Apply
Please send your cover letter and resume to Wendy Riley, Director of Animal Care – directoranimalcare@northumberlandhs.com.
Application deadline – 5.00 PM, June 30th.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The organization is committed to creating an inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or any other protected status.