What are the responsibilities and job description for the Kennel Technician position at Hernando Animal Clinic & Surgery Center?
Description
Hernando Animal Clinic and Surgery Center is a trusted veterinary facility serving the Hernando, MS area. Our mission is to provide high-quality veterinary care with compassion and respect for every pet and their family. We offer a wide range of services including routine wellness exams, surgery, dentistry, and emergency care. Our team is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of pets and ensuring that each visit is a positive experience for both pets and their owners. As we continue to grow, we are looking to add a full-time Kennel Assistant to our dedicated team.
As a Kennel Assistant at Hernando Animal Clinic and Surgery Center, you will play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of our facility, ensuring that all animals in our care are kept clean, safe, comfortable, and healthy. You will work closely with veterinarians, technicians, and other staff to provide exceptional care for our patients, ensuring a high standard of cleanliness and organization in the kennel area. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about animal care and looking to contribute to a compassionate, team-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities
Animal Care & Comfort:
- Provide daily care and attention to animals in the kennel, including dogs, cats, and other small animals.
- Feed and water animals according to their dietary needs and preferences.
- Monitor the health and well-being of all animals in the kennel, identifying any signs of illness or discomfort and reporting them to the veterinary team.
- Ensure that all animals are exercised, walked, and provided with appropriate playtime.
- Clean and sanitize cages, kennels, and common areas to maintain a clean, safe, and healthy environment. Administer medications as directed by the veterinary team (if applicable).
Sanitation & Facility Maintenance:
Maintain cleanliness of the entire kennel area, including floors, equipment, and surfaces.- Properly dispose of waste and manage the overall cleanliness of the facility to ensure it meets health and safety standards.
- Disinfect cages, bedding, and play areas regularly to prevent the spread of germs and infections.
Record Keeping & Communication:
Maintain accurate records on the care, behavior, feeding, and medications of each animal.- Communicate effectively with the veterinary team regarding any concerns, behavioral issues, or changes in the animals' condition.
- Assist with intake and discharge of animals, ensuring all required documentation is completed accurately.
Assistance with Animal Transport & Support:
Assist with the transport of animals within the clinic, such as from the kennel to treatment areas or examination rooms.- Provide support during treatments and procedures as directed by the veterinary team, including holding animals during exams and assisting with sedation and recovery.
Customer Service & Client Interaction:
Interact with pet owners during drop-off and pick-up to ensure smooth, positive experiences for both pets and their families.- Answer questions from clients regarding kennel services, pet care routines, and general information in a friendly and professional manner.
Team Collaboration & Support:
- Work effectively with the veterinary technicians, doctors, and other staff members to ensure that all animals receive the best possible care.
- Assist with other clinic duties as needed, including restocking supplies, organizing areas, and maintaining equipment.
Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Experience:
- Previous experience working with animals in a kennel, veterinary clinic, or similar setting is preferred but not required.
- Strong passion for animal care and a desire to contribute to a high standard of service.
Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Training or coursework in animal care or veterinary services is a plus.
Skills:
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with clients, staff, and team members.
- Detail-oriented with a focus on maintaining a clean, safe, and organized environment.
- Ability to lift, move, and handle animals of various sizes and temperaments.
- Strong work ethic with the ability to take initiative and work independently or as part of a team.
- Ability to follow directions, adhere to protocols, and work under the supervision of the veterinary team.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand, walk, bend, and kneel for long periods of time.
- Capability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Ability to handle stressful situations and potentially challenging animal behavior in a calm and professional manner.
Job Benefits
At Hernando Animal Clinic and Surgery Center, we are committed to providing exceptional care for our patients and supporting the professional development of our team. As a Kennel Assistant, you will be an integral part of our clinic’s success, ensuring the comfort and well-being of the animals in our care.
We Offer:
- Competitive Salary: Based on experience and qualifications.
- Health Benefits: Medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Paid Time Off: Vacation and sick leave to support your work-life balance.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for growth and advancement within the clinic.
- Employee Discounts: Discounts on veterinary services, products, and medications for your pets.
- Supportive Environment: A compassionate, collaborative team that values respect, kindness, and professional growth.
About Hernando Animal Clinic
Hernando Animal Clinic & Surgery Center is a general practice located in Hernando, MS, just south of Memphis, TN, with modern, state-of-the-art veterinary medical care, exceptional service, and hospitality to dogs, cats, pocket pets, and exotic animals.
We provide a comprehensive array of professional veterinary services including dental care, allergy control/dermatology, behavioral and nutritional counseling, emergency and critical care, parasite prevention, surgery, oncology, internal medicine, and wellness. Also, we utilize the latest diagnostic equipment, such as ultrasound, digital x-rays, tonometry, echocardiograms, and both an in-house laboratory and in-house and online pharmacy.
We provide a comprehensive array of professional veterinary services including dental care, allergy control/dermatology, behavioral and nutritional counseling, emergency and critical care, parasite prevention, surgery, oncology, internal medicine, and wellness. Also, we utilize the latest diagnostic equipment, such as ultrasound, digital x-rays, tonometry, echocardiograms, and both an in-house laboratory and in-house and online pharmacy.
We provide cutting-edge veterinary medical care and our veterinarian team, who bring almost four decades of combined veterinary experience, provide a collaborative environment and hands-on mentorship. We take every step to give pets the best possible care and the first step is our wonderful staff.
Hernando Animal Clinic is a proud partner of Innovetive Petcare, where we believe that you are the future of veterinary medicine. Cultivate, innovate, develop, and collaborate. Excellent pet care comes from exceptional teams.
Equal Opportunity Employer Policy
Hernando Animal Clinic is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We are proudly committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, or any other non-merit factor. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
Hernando Animal Clinic is a proud partner of Innovetive Petcare, where we believe that you are the future of veterinary medicine. Cultivate, innovate, develop, and collaborate. Excellent pet care comes from exceptional teams.
Equal Opportunity Employer Policy
Hernando Animal Clinic is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. We are proudly committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse and inclusive workforce. We do not discriminate based on age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, disability, or any other non-merit factor. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.