Kennel Assistant

Innovetive Petcare • Wilkesboro, NC

4d • Onsite

About The Position

At Animal Hospital of Wilkes, our boarding department plays a vital role in the overall health, comfort, and safety of the pets entrusted to us. We’re seeking a dedicated, detail-oriented Kennel Assistant who brings both hands-on animal care experience and a strong sense of accountability to every shift. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a structured, fast-paced environment and understands that exceptional animal care starts with consistency, observation, and compassion. This role offers a direct impact on patient well-being, ensuring pets feel safe, clean, and cared for while away from home. You will work in a team-oriented environment alongside veterinary professionals, supporting patient care across departments. This position also serves as a foundation for growth, building experience that can lead to advancement into veterinary assistant or technician roles within an established and trusted hospital that has been serving the Wilkesboro community since 1958.

Requirements

• Previous animal care experience required (kennel, boarding, veterinary, or similar setting)
• Strong understanding of animal behavior and safe handling techniques
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Dependable, punctual, and committed to high standards of care
• Physically capable of lifting/moving pets and equipment and staying active throughout the shift
• Keen attention to detail with the ability to recognize signs of stress, illness, or discomfort in animals
• Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and contribute to a supportive team culture

Nice To Haves

• Experience in a veterinary hospital or high-volume boarding facility
• Confidence working with dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments
• Strong work ethic with a proactive, task-oriented mindset
• Passion for providing gentle, compassionate, and consistent care

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for boarding and hospitalized pets, including feeding, watering, and monitoring
• Ensure clean, sanitary, and organized kennel and hospital environments
• Safely handle and restrain pets of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments
• Walk, bathe, and provide enrichment activities to support physical and emotional well-being
• Observe and report changes in behavior, appetite, or health status to medical staff
• Assist veterinary team members as needed with patient care and hospital operations
• Maintain accurate awareness of each pet’s routine, needs, and special instructions

Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay based on experience
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with Company Match
• Employee Pet Care Discounts
• Flexible Scheduling Options
• Ongoing training and career development opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees