Animal Care Attendant
Part-Time
Reports to the Shelter Manager
The Animal Care Attendant will assist the Shelter Manager in the daily operations of the shelter, ensuring the health and welfare of the animals within the shelter; management of their medical and physical needs; maintaining sanitary and humane conditions in the shelter; and providing customer service to the public through reception duties, adoptions, and the surrender process. The Animal Care Attendant will conduct herself/himself in a professional manner in all aspects of the above position, and complete tasks in an appropriate and timely fashion.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Animal Care:
- Conduct assessment of incoming animals to determine general physical health and well-being
- Under the guidance of the Shelter Manager, administer and record medications, vaccines, microchipping, and complete all other procedures as directed
- Observe animals and record observations on a daily basis, assessing them for symptoms of disease, illness, or behavioural problems, advising the Shelter Manager of any finding of concern
- Provide basic first aid to sick or injured animals as needed
- In consultation with the Shelter Manager, seek veterinary assistance when needed
- Prepare intake on stray animals and input the information in shelter’s database
- Maintain pound records for bylaw of the City of Kawartha Lakes
- Provide a clean and sanitary environment for our animal residents
- Provide proper food, care, and shelter for animals under the Society’s care and protection
- Work closely with volunteers and assist in the provision of training for volunteer animal caregivers
- Assist other staff in the provision of animal care
- Perform basic custodial duties as required in order to effectively maintain the condition of the physical plant and its equipment and grounds
- Demonstrate the safe handling of chemical cleaning agents and drugs
- Recommend changes to ensure the optimal operation of the centre, under the supervision of the Shelter Manager, and implement if approved
- Assist the Shelter Manager in maintaining accurate and up-to-date information regarding adoptions, surrenders, redemptions, euthanasias, vaccines, microchip implants, daily medication administration, and pound books
- Transport animals to veterinarian offices as directed
- Assume other responsibilities as requested by the Shelter Manager
Reception:
- Assist with greeting the public, in person or by phone; filing, data entry, and general reception duties
- Counsel potential adopters about behaviours and characteristics relating to their choice of pets as part of adoption process
- Complete adoption process according to shelter procedures
Other:
- Conduct exterior maintenance if required, i.e. cleaning of outside dog runs, lawn maintenance, snow removal
- Other duties as assigned
- Work in compliance with the Occupational Health and Safety Act and its regulations
- Immediately report all incidents of injury, property damage, absence of or failure of a protective device and/or equipment to the supervisor
QUALIFICATIONS
Candidates should possess:
- A thorough understanding of, and dedication to, the philosophies of animal welfare
- At least 1 year experience in animal care and handling in a shelter and/or vet clinic environment
- Knowledge in the handling of difficult animals
- Clean driver's abstract and ability to drive on the 400 series highway
- Critical evaluation and observation skills
- Excellent organizational skills
- Ability to understand and follow directions, guided by policies and procedures
- Ability to work well with minimal supervision
- Ability to lift heavy objects (50 lbs)
- A valid full G driver’s license (driver's abstract will be performed)
- Neatness in appearance
- Ability to stand for long periods
- Ability to manage emotionally and environmentally stressful situations
Note: Must not have allergies limiting or affecting exposure to animals
HOURS OF WORK
- Varies per HSKL scheduling
- Weekends and weekdays and holiday availability are a must
Please send resume to:
Judi Cannon
Executive Director
jcannon @ hskl.ca
This position will remain open until filled, however interviews will be scheduled as candidates are selected and the posting will be closed early if a successful applicant is chosen.
We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. HSKL will accommodate materials or processes required based on the individual’s needs upon request in accordance with the Integrated Accessibility Regulation.
