Kennel Assistant

About the Role and Organization

Animal Hospital of Wilkes, located in Wilkesboro, North Carolina, seeks a dedicated Kennel Assistant to join their Boarding Department. This full-time, onsite position offers a significant opportunity for individuals passionate about animals to begin or progress a career in veterinary medicine. The role involves hands-on involvement with hospitalized and boarding pets, providing foundational clinical experience within a supportive veterinary hospital environment.

Primary Duties

• Deliver compassionate daily care to pets under hospitalization and boarding.
• Feed, hydrate, walk, and exercise animals regularly while monitoring their wellbeing.
• Maintain cleanliness by sanitizing kennels, treatment areas, and hospital premises.
• Handle and restrain various dog and cat breeds safely and gently.
• Observe and report any changes in animal behavior or health concerns to the veterinary team promptly.
• Assist Veterinary Assistants and Technicians in patient care duties and efficient hospital operations.
• Keep bedding, dishes, laundry, and medical supplies clean and organized.
• Ensure a safe, hygienic, and welcoming atmosphere for pets, owners, and staff.
• Uphold kindness and respect in all interactions with patients.

Candidate Profile

• Enthusiastic about animal health and welfare.
• Reliable, punctual, and eager to acquire new skills.
• Capable of working in fast-paced veterinary environments independently and collaboratively.
• Positive attitude with readiness to assist in various tasks.
• Available to work weekends and holidays on a rotational basis.
• Interested in pursuing a long-term veterinary career.

Previous animal care experience is preferred but not mandatory; applicants with strong work ethics and willingness to learn are encouraged to apply.

Opportunities for Growth

• Potential advancement to Veterinary Assistant roles.
• Access to hands-on clinical training and learning from seasoned veterinary professionals.
• Participation in internal development programs and career progression pathways.
• Eligible employees may obtain scholarships for Veterinary Technology education via Penn Foster.
• Continuous skill-building for a fulfilling veterinary medicine career.

Physical and Workplace Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, crouch, and remain physically active for long periods during shifts.
• Capability to lift and carry weights up to 50 pounds safely, with assistance available if necessary.
• Proficiency in handling diverse temperaments and sizes of dogs and cats.
• Perform repetitive duties such as dog walking, kennel cleaning, laundry, and supply stocking.
• Comfortable working with animal dander, fur, odors, cleaning chemicals, and veterinary disinfectants.
• Prepared to operate in settings exposed to animal waste, blood, bodily fluids, sharps, and infectious agents.
• Compliance with use of personal protective equipment as required.
• Adaptability to the dynamic needs of patients and hospital operations in a busy clinical environment.

Compensation and Benefits

• Hourly wage ranging from $12 to $14.
• Health insurance including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Life insurance protection.
• Employee Assistance Program for mental and emotional health.
• Access to confidential wellness tools and mental health resources through Calm Health.
• Legal support via Rocket Lawyer for employees and their immediate families.
• Comprehensive onboarding with practical training.
• Career growth and internal promotion opportunities.
• Continuing education and veterinary technology scholarship availability.
• Competitive pay and 401(k) plan with employer matching.
• Employee discounts on pet care products and services.
• Paid time off, holidays, and flexible scheduling options.
• A positive, collaborative team culture supporting work-life balance.