Kennel Assistant

Department: Boarding

Location: Atlanta, Georgia

Compensation: $14.00 - $16.00 / hour

Description

For over 40 years, Vernon Woods Animal Hospital has been a trusted name in veterinary care in the North Sandy Springs community, just outside of Atlanta. As a family-owned and operated practice, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional, personalized care to every pet and client who walks through our doors. Our dedicated team serves primarily dogs and cats but also provides expert care for small mammals, including rabbits, ferrets, and guinea pigs. In addition to veterinary medicine, we offer boarding and grooming services, making us a one-stop shop for our clients' pet care needs.

We are currently seeking a compassionate, reliable, and hardworking Kennel Assistant to join our team. This position is essential to the overall function and flow of our hospital. As a Kennel Assistant, you'll support our veterinary staff by ensuring the cleanliness, comfort, and safety of all boarding and hospitalized pets, while providing basic care and loving attention to every animal entrusted to us.

This is a great opportunity for someone passionate about animals and interested in gaining hands-on experience in the veterinary field.

Some of the responsibilities you will own in this role:

• Provide daily care, feeding, and exercise for hospitalized and boarding pets (dogs, cats, and exotic small mammals)


• Maintain clean, safe, and sanitary kennels, cages, and play areas at all times


• Monitor pets for signs of illness or stress and report any concerns to the veterinary staff immediately


• Walk dogs and engage in safe, supervised play sessions


• Bathe pets and assist with basic grooming tasks


• Prepare meals and administer medications under the direction of a veterinarian or technician


• Maintain accurate records of feeding, eliminations, and behavior for each pet


• Assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians with restraint during exams or treatments when needed


• Clean and sanitize the hospital's common areas, treatment rooms, and laundry as part of daily routine


• Communicate effectively and professionally with team members and clients


• Provide loving attention and reassurance to pets during their stay with us

What You'll Bring:

We are looking for an individual who is:

• Compassionate and empathetic toward both animals and their owners


• Punctual, reliable, and eager to learn


• A team player who can work independently and collaboratively


• Comfortable around animals of various sizes and temperaments


• Physically capable of lifting up to 50 lbs, standing for long periods, and performing cleaning tasks


• Detail-oriented with excellent time management skills


• Willing to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
  
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working with animals in a professional setting (kennel, shelter, rescue, or veterinary clinic) preferred but not required


• High school diploma or equivalent


• Interest in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine or animal care is a plus

Benefits:

Health & Wellness

• 
  Medical Insurance – Multiple plan options to meet your needs, including low-premium and high-deductible plans


• 
  Dental & Vision Insurance – Full coverage for preventive care and support for glasses, contacts, and more


• 
  Employer-Paid Life Insurance – With the option to purchase additional coverage for yourself and your family


• 
  Short-Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance – Income protection when life throws you a curveball


• 
  Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – 24/7 confidential support for mental health, legal, financial, and personal matters


• 
  Maternity & Parental Leave – leave available to support you and your growing family
  
  
  

Financial Wellness

• 
  401(k) Retirement Plan – With company match to help you plan for your future


• 
  Competitive Hourly Pay – Based on experience, with regular performance reviews and opportunities for raises


• 
  Overtime Opportunities – For those who want to pick up additional hours
  
  
  

Time Off & Work-Life Balance

• 
  Paid Time Off (PTO) – To support vacation, sick leave, and personal days


• 
  Paid Holidays – Additional pay for holiday shifts


• 
  Flexible Scheduling – Because life doesn't always follow a 9–5


• 
  Pet Bereavement Leave – Because we understand that pets are family too

Professional Development

• 
  Continuing Education (CE) Allowance – Reimbursement for approved animal care-related training or seminars


• 
  In-House Training & Mentorship – Learn from experienced veterinarians and support staff


• 
  Career Growth Opportunities – Paths to become a Veterinary Assistant, Technician, or even pursue Veterinary Technician Certification


• 
  Discounted Memberships & Resources – Access to veterinary industry learning platforms and networking groups

Perks & Extras

• 
  Pet Care Discounts – Generous discounts on veterinary care, boarding, and grooming for your own pets


• 
  Team Building Events & Celebrations – From staff lunches to holiday parties, we work hard and have fun together


• 
  Positive, Inclusive Culture – Family-owned with long-tenured staff and a supportive, low-drama team


• 
  Employee Recognition Programs – Be celebrated for your hard work and dedication