What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dog Daycare Manager position at JM Pet Resort & Veterinary Clinic?
Job Summary
The PLAYtrain® Manager (Dog Daycare Manager) ensures a successful "play and learn" experience for each pet, leads group activities, manages team members to follow all protocols, and maximizes safety for both pets and employees. The PLAYtrain® Manager (Dog Daycare Manager) remains closely connected to our 360° of Happy Health® principles as outlined in our company Mission and Vision Statements.
Essential Job Functions
- Set up playgroups following established PLAYtrain® guidelines.
- Ensure playgroups are in place at scheduled times and that dogs are grouped correctly according to their temperament.
- Work closely with Kennel Operations to achieve safe and timely rotations.
- Ensure cleanliness routines are followed (scooping, spraying, emptying buckets, etc.).
- Continually monitor dog behaviors in all playgroups throughout the day.
- Make necessary adjustments (recall, create smaller groups, exchange dogs between groups, limit play/time out, etc.).
- Direct staff to follow proper protocols for dog handling and behavior modification.
- Mentor staff to develop behavior modification knowledge and skills; demonstrate examples of behaviors, ensure team members can identify behaviors, and take action to solve problems.
- Update exercise reports.
- Follow specific handling guidelines to safely navigate dogs throughout the facility.
- Assist in managing and following the color-coded caution system, describing employee restrictions and permissions for dog handling.
- Assist with dog rotations and playgroup setups/breakdowns throughout the shift at prescribed times.
- Apply specific language designed to communicate and reinforce behavior expectations to dogs.
- Accurately interpret dog body language to understand actions, anticipate possible reactions, and make sound judgments “in the moment” to maximize safe outcomes.
- Properly receive dogs in groups, ensuring name tags, collars, haltis, muzzles, and drag leashes are used and properly fitted.
- Perform effectively in a loud work environment (barking dogs, ambient noise, machinery).
- Adhere to a rotating work schedule, which includes weekend shifts, holidays, and overtime as needed by the business.
- Interface with clients in a friendly, professional manner during all interactions.
- Follow up with the Client Liaison on any injuries sustained at the facility.
- Be aware of Boarding Round findings.
- Be aware of Quarantine activity and follow infection control protocols.
- Monitor evaluation dogs, write evaluation summaries, and distribute emails daily.
- Coordinate the addition of working dogs to the daily leash training schedule.
- Identify dogs in need of personalized training.
- Work with dogs on individual improvement programs to assist in rehabilitation.
- Conduct special socializations and monitor trainers.
- Ensure the removal of foreign objects, branches, and health hazards; notice holes/fence lines and ensure prompt repair.
- Maintain the k9 grass with proper use of machine.
- Ensure grounds are sanitized, shoveled, and ready for use.
- Ensure each shift is fully functional and balanced; communicate needs with the Vice President.
- Standardize and define specific criteria to evaluate candidate performance during the working interview to maximize successful hiring decisions.
- Motivate staff to improve skills and performance levels, create new ways to reinforce protocols, engage the staff, and provide timely feedback.
- Acknowledge individual contributions and take disciplinary action when necessary.
- Prepare and lead thoughtful performance reviews.
- Monitor and enforce readiness for work (e.g., dressing to code and bringing all required tools to assigned play stations).
- Manage inventory for the department and communicate needs to management.
- Make recommendations for product changes as needed.
- Participate in Lead Meetings, Staff Meetings, Training Opportunities, and other resort activities as required.
- Communicate openly, respectfully, and constructively with the Management Team to solve problems, exchange ideas, and achieve company objectives.
- Create and schedule a comprehensive training plan for new hires.
Physical Demands:
- Must stand/walk entire shifts, lift up to 40 lbs, and exert up to 100 lbs of force.
- Tasks include bending, kneeling, crawling, and reaching.
Job Hazards
- Exposure to dog and cat bites and scrapes
- Exposure to contagious diseases or infections
- Exposure to contaminants
Dress Code
- Scrub sets (tops/bottoms) must match and be in Black, Royal, Wine, Caribbean Blue, or Red.
- Managers must have their first name embroidered on their scrubs (opposite side of the logo).
- Long-sleeve layering under scrub tops must be white, black, or grey.
- JMPR polos in approved colors must be properly sized and in good condition.
- Zip-up jackets, vests, sweatshirts (hooded or not) in approved colors and good condition are allowed.
- Acceptable pants: khaki/cargo pants, black/navy pants, jeans, Capri's, Bermuda shorts, or mid-thigh shorts (solid colors only; no jean shorts). Note: Pants must be worn with a polo, not a scrub top.
Computer Skills
- Must be able to learn and effectively use OneNote, Gingr, When I Work, Go Daddy Email and Microsoft Office softwares.
- Must be able to learn new technology in accordance with business needs.
Qualifications
- 5 years of experience in Doggie Daycare or Dog Training required.
- Previous supervisory experience required; pet industry experience preferred.
- Passionate about animal welfare and treats all animals with compassion and kindness.
- Computer-savvy, with experience using multiple software platforms daily to accomplish business objectives.
- Able to follow a rotating work schedule (e.g., nights, weekends, and holidays).
- Team-oriented, reliable, and dependable, with excellent attendance and punctuality.
- Strong work ethic, setting high standards for self and others.
- Comfortable interacting with all breeds
Education
- High School Diploma required
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $32.00 per hour
Expected hours: 32 – 40 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- On-the-job training
- Paid time off
- Uniform allowance
- Vision insurance
Work Days:
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Rotating weekends
- Weekends as needed
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $32