Canine Health & Wellbeing Specialist

The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association; Belfast City District; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 27,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

26 days annual leave

Real Living Wage Employer

Flex pot – flexible benefits

Buy/sell annual leave

Discounts and cash-back

Excellent pension scheme

And lots more!

Job summary

Guide Dogs in Belfast is seeking a Dog Wellbeing Technician to care for dogs, uphold welfare standards and provide specialist health care. You’ll apply expert knowledge of health, behaviour and positive handling to support dogs and colleagues across our community.

This full-time role is 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, on a rota covering 8am–6pm. Some lone working, reception duties and money handling are also involved.

Qualifications

• A qualification in animal care or equivalent experience in the field.
• Able to manage physical tasks and walk long distances with dogs.
• Travel requirements and, if no full UK license, plan alternatives.
• Experience in kennel-type environments, paid or voluntary.
• Experience supporting a customer-facing organisation.
• Solid understanding of animal wellbeing principles.
• Basic health and safety and safeguarding knowledge.
• Understanding of dog care principles and health conditions.

Responsibilities

• Manage care of a group of dogs in accommodation, meeting routine needs.
• Follow national dog wellbeing practices and provide specialist health care.
• Monitor dogs' wellbeing, identify concerns and escalate as needed.
• Support behaviour development using guide dog handling techniques.
• Lead and support volunteers; provide input on their preparation and development.
• Maintain accurate records and interpret health data for trends.
• Transport dogs regionally for health appointments.

Skills

Animal care qualification

Physical stamina

Drive / travel

Kennel environment experience

Customer service experience

Animal wellbeing principles

Health and safety awareness

Dog care health knowledge

Job description

Guide Dogs in Belfast is seeking a Dog Wellbeing Technician to care for dogs, uphold welfare standards and provide specialist health care. You’ll apply expert knowledge of health, behaviour and positive handling to support dogs and colleagues across our community.

This full-time role is 35 hours per week, Monday to Friday, on a rota covering 8am–6pm. Some lone working, reception duties and money handling are also involved.