Skillbridge Canine Wellness Apprentice
About The Position
The Canine Wellness Apprentice provides quality care for dogs and puppies housed in kennels and helps clean and maintain kennels, exercise yards, and the kennel complex. Through structured training, observation, and supervised hands-on experience, the apprentice develops knowledge and practical skills to support daily kennel operations and canine wellness while learning Canine Companions’ values, mission, and training protocols. The position prepares participants for the Canine Training Instructor Apprentice program and requires following safety procedures, care protocols, documentation standards, and supervisory direction while prioritizing the health and well-being of every dog and puppy. The program lasts up to 26 weeks and is scheduled for 40 hours per week. Successful completion may lead to consideration for paid employment with Canine Companions, depending on qualifications, performance, business needs, and position availability.
Requirements
- Be an active-duty U.S. service member within 180 days of separation or retirement.
- Have completed at least 180 days of active-duty service.
- Expect an honorable discharge.
- Complete required transition assistance requirements.
- Be able to work in person in Santa Rosa, California.
Nice To Haves
- Prior dog handling, training, and/or dog health care experience.
Responsibilities
- Provide care, handling, and welfare support for dogs and puppies.
- Clean and maintain kennels, dog exercise yards, and the kennel complex.
- Follow sanitation and infection-prevention practices.
- Follow feeding, nutrition, and medication protocols.
- Observe canine health and assist with emergency response.
- Groom dogs and observe their behavior.
- Maintain records and demonstrate attention to detail.
- Support inventory management and operational organization.
- Communicate and work as part of a team, including supporting volunteers.
- Demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and commitment to organizational values.
- Follow established safety procedures, care protocols, documentation standards, and supervisory direction.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
