Animal Handler Dogs and Cats

Emirates Park Zoo; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 60,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A local pet hotel in Abu Dhabi is seeking an experienced Animal Handler to ensure the health, safety, and comfort of pets. The role includes daily care and observation of dogs and cats, strong communication with pet owners, and maintaining a clean environment. Ideal candidates should have a high school diploma and experience working with animals.

Benefits

Accommodation

Duty Meal

Insurance

Weekly and annual off days

Standard working hours

Plane ticket

Opportunity to learn new skills

Qualifications

• Prior experience with dogs and cats in a kennel or similar setting preferred.
• Additional training or certification in animal care is a plus.
• Comfortable lifting and handling animals up to 25 kg.

Responsibilities

• Safely handle, restrain, and care for dogs and cats.
• Monitor pets for signs of health and report concerns.
• Maintain cleanliness of the facility and equipment.

Skills

Understanding of canine and feline behaviour

Basic knowledge of administering medications

Excellent communication skills

Ability to work as part of a team

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

We are seeking a dedicatedAnimal Handler to join our team at a Pet Hotel in Abu Dhabi,specializing in the boarding and day care of dogs and cats. Theideal candidate will ensure the health, safety, and comfort of allpets in our facility. This role involves hands-on care, observation,and daily interaction with a variety of breeds and temperaments,requiring both a passion for animal welfare and a commitment tomaintaining a clean, safe environment.

Key Responsibilities

1. Animal Care & Handling
   

   • Safely handle, restrain, and move dogs and cats of varioussizes and temperaments.
     
   • Feed pets according to individual dietary requirements andmaintain feeding schedules.
     
   • Groom and bathe animals as needed, ensuring they remain clean,comfortable, and well-cared for.
     

2. Observation & Monitoring
   

   • Monitor dogs and cats for signs of illness, distress, orunusual behaviour.
     
   • Record daily notes on feeding, health checks, and activities,and promptly report concerns to supervisors or veterinary staff.
     

3. Health & Safety
   

   • Administer basic first aid or medications under the directionof a veterinarian, if required.
     
   • Maintain high standards of hygiene by cleaning anddisinfecting enclosures, play areas, and equipment regularly.
     
   • Follow established safety protocols to minimize risks toanimals, staff, and visitors.
     

4. Customer Interaction & Communication
   

   • Greet pet owners, answer questions, and provide updates ontheir pets’ well-being in a friendly, professional manner.
     
   • Communicate any health or behavioural issues to pet owners andmanagement as necessary.
     

5. Team Collaboration
   

   • Work closely with fellow handlers, receptionists, andveterinary professionals to ensure each pet’s overall well-being.
     
   • Assist in enrichment activities (e.g., play sessions,socialisation) that promote positive behaviour and reduce stress.
     
   • Coordinate with management regarding supply needs, scheduling,and facility upkeep.
     

6. Enclosure & Facility Maintenance
   

   • Perform daily cleaning and disinfection of dog runs, catkennels, and all pet hotel facilities to maintain a hygienicenvironment for pets, staff, and visitors.
     
   • Inspect all areas regularly to ensure they are safe, secure,and free of hazards.
     
   • Report any damaged equipment or areas in need of repair tosupervisors promptly.
     

7. Transportation Support (If Applicable)
   

   • Occasionally assist with pick-up or drop-off pets, ensuringsafe and comfortable travel in accordance with facility guidelines.
     

Requirements

Experience: Prior experience working with animals (especiallydogs and cats) in a kennel, pet hotel, shelter, or veterinary settingis preferred.
Education: High school diploma or equivalent; additionaltraining or certification in animal care is a plus.
Skills:

• Strong understanding of canine and feline behaviour, handlingtechniques, and safety procedures.
  
• Basic knowledge of administering medications and first aid to pets.
  
• Excellent communication and customer service skills forinteracting with pet owners.
  
• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  

Physical Requirements:

• Comfortable lifting, handling, and restraining animals ofvarious sizes (up to 25 kg or more).
  
• Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive tasks forextended periods.
  

Benefits

• Accommodation
  
• Duty Meal
  
• Insurance
  
• Weekly and annual off days
  
• Standard working hours
  
• Plane ticket
  
• Opportunity to learn new skills and have career growth.
  

Join us in providing a safe, happy, and loving environment for catsand dogs while their owners are away!