Kennel Assistant

VCA Animal Hospitals • Kankakee, IL

3d • $15 - $16 • Onsite

About The Position

VCA County West Animal Hospital is looking for a part-time Kennel Assistant to join our team. The Kennel Assistant plays a vital role in maintaining the health, safety, and comfort of dogs and cats in our care. This position involves direct animal care, facility sanitation, and client communication to support the overall operations of the hospital. We are looking for a candidate who is reliable, attentive to detail, and provides compassionate care to our boarding pets. Must be flexible to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Ability to use Microsoft Office and learn functions of practice management software.
• Previous experience in animal care, boarding, shelter, or kennel environments preferred, but training is available for the right candidate.
• Ability to work in a physically demanding environment, including lifting up to 50 lbs and standing/walking for extended periods.
• Strong attention to detail, reliability, and commitment to animal welfare.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Flexibility to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required for boarding care.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in animal care, boarding, shelter, or kennel environments preferred, but training is available for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for boarding dogs and cats, including feeding, fresh water, exercise, litter box care, and enrichment activities.
• Clean, disinfect, and maintain kennels, cat condos, common areas, and equipment to hospital standards.
• Observe and monitor the health, behavior, and overall well-being of boarding pets, promptly reporting any concerns to veterinary staff.
• Assist with bathing, basic grooming, and administering oral medications under supervision.
• Maintain accurate boarding records and follow established protocols for pet identification and care instructions.
• Interact with clients during pet drop-off and pick-up, ensuring excellent customer service.
• Adhere to all safety, sanitation, and infection control protocols.

Benefits

• Employee discounts on veterinary services and products.
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement within the hospital.
• Supportive and collaborative team environment.
• We offer competitive compensation along with a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision and paid vacation/sick days, 401(k), generous employee pet discounts and more!

What This Job Offers

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