Required for this position: The ability to follow directions with and without supervision; the ability to lift objects or pets of at least 30 lbs; the ability to recognize certain behaviors in animals; the ability to learn and understand medical terminology and minor procedures; the ability to admit or ask questions when a task is unclear; the ability to show leadership towards other kennel staff; the ability to work with computers and other office equipment; the ability to spell, alphabetize, and perform basic mathematics; and the ability to provide exceptional customer service.
Persons to report to: Assistants, Technicians, Head Technician, Practice Manager, and Doctors.
Task Descriptions: As a kennel assistant, your job entails several important aspects of our hospital; animal care and treatment, customer service, and hospital cleanliness.
Animal Care and Treatment Responsibilities – restraint; obtaining fecal and urine samples; assisting with toe nail trims, ear cleanings and anal gland expressions; minor bathing; minor mathematics (for dilution of chemicals); cleaning of surgical equipment; maintaining supply order board; maintaining cleaning supply inventory; aiding groomer when needed (for cleaning or bathing); knowledge of contagious diseases and isolation protocol; maintaining safety when walking patients and opening cages; stocking of supplies throughout hospital; always maintaining a high standard of patient care; and assisting the assistants, technicians and doctors in any way asked to do so.
Customer Service Responsibilities – assisting receptionists with filing and maintaining charts; appropriate record keeping; knowledge of computer system; filling prescriptions (with technician direction); assisting clients with multiple pets or large purchases; bringing up patients following discharge instructions; maintaining compassion, sympathy and professionalism during high-stress situations.
Hospital Cleanliness Responsibilities – vacuuming; mopping; changing garbage; dusting; following daily, weekly and monthly task lists; cleaning surgery table and trays; cleaning and maintaining all sinks; maintaining litter boxes and hospital cats; laundry; kennel cleaning; proper dilutions for cleaning solutions; cleaning windows and doors; replenishing supplies (including paper towels, garbage bags, air fresheners); knowledge of patient isolation protocols; and overall maintenance (both inside and outside the hospital) of the sights, smells and sounds of the hospital.