Kennel Assistant - 3rd Shift

Ethos Veterinary Health • Fort Wayne, IN

6d • Onsite

About The Position

The Kennel Assistant is responsible for providing exceptional care to animals hospitalized at our emergency veterinary hospital. This role involves maintaining a clean and safe environment for all animals, assisting veterinary staff with patient care, and ensuring the comfort of patients during their stay. The ideal candidate will be compassionate, reliable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.

This is a full-time position. The schedule rotates between a week of 3 12-hour shifts (7PM-7AM), then a week of 4 10-hour shifts (9PM-7AM).

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; previous experience in animal care or veterinary settings preferred.
• Strong passion for animal welfare and a genuine interest in veterinary medicine.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, emergency setting, often under stressful conditions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow instructions carefully.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand or walk for long periods of time.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work well in a team environment.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for animals in the hospital’s kennels, including feeding, watering, and administering medications under the supervision of veterinary staff.
• Monitor animal behavior and condition, reporting any changes or concerns to the veterinary team.
• Assist with transporting animals to and from exam rooms, treatment areas, and surgery as needed.
• Ensure that animals are housed in clean, comfortable environments, maintaining bedding, cages, and runs.
• Support the team in keeping track of animals' medical histories, ensuring accurate record-keeping of feeding schedules, medications, and treatments.
• Clean and disinfect animal housing areas, play yards, and common spaces to maintain hospital hygiene standards.
• Ensure all areas are safe and secure for animals, making sure kennels and enclosures are properly locked and maintained.
• Follow protocols for disposal of waste and cleaning of animal supplies, such as food dishes, toys, and bedding.
• Assist veterinary technicians and veterinarians in preparing for procedures, including setting up necessary equipment and supplies.
• Provide emotional support to animals by offering gentle handling, comfort, and companionship during their stay.
• Communicate effectively with veterinary team members regarding animal health, behavior, and any concerns or observations.
• Assist with euthanasia and post-mortem care as needed, under the direction of the veterinary team.
• Provide excellent customer service to pet owners during drop-off and pick-up, answering basic questions and ensuring a smooth transition for pets entering or leaving the hospital.
• Ensure that pet owners’ concerns are relayed to the appropriate veterinary staff.
• Assist with emergency situations, including preparing animals for immediate treatment and helping with overflow of patients as needed.
• Participate in training and development to stay current with hospital protocols and animal care practices.
• Other duties as assigned by the hospital manager or lead veterinary technician.

Benefits

• Ethos Veterinary Health offers a comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, vision, a 401k with employer match, and paid time off (including sick time) for all eligible employees.
• For positions based in Colorado, Ethos Veterinary Health provides eligible employees with paid sick and safe leave and public health emergency leave in accordance with the requirements of Colorado's Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED