Canine Care Shift Leader

Wags & Whiskers Pet Hotel & Spa; Highbridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

A local pet care facility in the UK is seeking a Canine Care - Shift Leader. This role involves providing care for dogs, managing administrative tasks, and ensuring a positive experience for pet owners. Ideal candidates should have animal care qualifications and strong communication skills. The position offers competitive pay and flexible working hours.

Benefits

Free on-site parking

Employee discounts

Supportive work environment

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Minimum two years in a similar environment and role.
• Must be a local resident with a full UK driving licence and own transport.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including mornings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical stamina for handling dogs of all sizes and weights.

Responsibilities

• Provide compassionate care and attention to dogs staying at our kennel.
• Welcome pet owners and ensure a positive experience.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the facility.
• Schedule appointments and manage reservations.

Skills

Animal welfare passion

Communication skills

Customer service skills

Administrative skills

Computer proficiency

Multitasking ability

Education

Level 3 Certification in Animal Care or related qualification

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Suite

Job description

Canine Care - Shift Leader

We are seeking an experienced, reliable, and trustworthy individual to join our team. This role involves caring for our furry guests and offering administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of our facility.

Responsibilities

• Canine Care: Provide compassionate care and attention to dogs staying at our kennel. Ensure that all dogs have clean living spaces, fresh water, and proper nutrition. Monitor the health and well‑being of the animals, promptly reporting any concerns to management. Follow established feeding, exercise, and medication schedules as directed by the pet owners or management. Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by veterinarians.
• Customer Service: Welcome pet owners and their dogs upon arrival and ensure a positive experience for both. Communicate effectively with pet owners, addressing any questions or concerns they may have whether face to face, via the telephone, email etc. Perform check‑in and check‑out procedures, ensuring accurate record‑keeping of each animal's stay.
• Kennel Maintenance: Maintain and coordinate cleanliness and sanitation standards throughout the kennel facility. Perform and coordinate regular cleaning of kennels, play areas, and common areas to ensure a safe and hygienic environment. Launder and coordinate bedding and towels as needed, ensuring supplies are well‑stocked at all times.
• Administrative Tasks: Schedule appointments, manage reservations, and coordinate drop‑off and pick‑up times for clients. Maintain accurate records of client information, including contact details, vaccination records, and special instructions for each animal. Handle phone calls, emails, and inquiries in a professional and timely manner. Assist with billing, invoicing, and processing payments using our management software.

Requirements

• Minimum two years in a similar environment and role.
• Minimum Level 3 Certification in Animal Care, Animal Management, or a related Ofqual‑regulated qualification.
• Must be a local resident with a full UK driving licence and own transport.
• Availability to work flexible hours, including mornings (6:30 am start), weekends, and holidays.
• Strong passion for animal welfare and a genuine love for dogs of all breeds and sizes.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to interact confidently and empathetically with pet owners.
• Computer skills and proficiency in office software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Google Suite).
• Administrative skills for the management of bookings.
• Ability to multitask and prioritise tasks effectively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Physical stamina and confidence handling dogs of all sizes, breeds, and temperaments, including the ability to lift and carry heavy items (e.g., large dog food bags) and manage strong or reactive dogs safely when required.
• A high level of reliability and professionalism – consistent attendance, punctuality, and dependability are essential due to the year‑round care needs of the animals.
• Staff must be able to follow scheduled shifts, communicate promptly about any issues, and uphold the standards expected in a licensed animal‑care environment.

Benefits

• Free on‑site parking.
• Employee discounts.
• A supportive and collaborative work environment where your contributions are valued.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the company.

Job Details

Job type: Zero hours contract.

Expected hours: 4–40+ hours per week (depending on rota, business needs, and your availability).

Schedule: Because we care for animals 365 days a year, shifts can fall on any day of the week. Typical working patterns may include weekdays (Monday to Friday), weekends (rotational or as required), and bank holidays (shared fairly across the team). We aim to provide predictable rotas where possible, but flexibility is essential due to the nature of animal care.

Work location: In person.

Pay: £12.21 per hour.