Canine Care & Daycare Specialist

Lake Forest Kennel Club; Lake Forest (IL); On-site; USD 22,041 - 23,419; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dental benefits

Vision benefits

401(k) with match

Medical benefits

Shared Ownership Program

DayPlay discounts

Job summary

Lake Forest Kennel Club is seeking a compassionate Pack Leader to supervise and care for dogs in our daycare and boarding programs. You will help keep the facility safe, clean, and welcoming, delivering premium, attentive service to pet parents.

We offer dental and vision benefits, a 401(k) with company match after 90 days, medical benefits at 6 months, and our Shared Ownership Program after one year, plus DayPlay discounts.

Qualifications

• Must understand basic dog behaviors and body language.
• Experience with kennel operations and animal care.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work in varying conditions.

Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety and well‑being of all daycare and boarding dogs using proper handling techniques
• Monitor and proactively address dog health and behavior; report any concerns to your supervisor immediately — zero tolerance for non‑approved handling methods
• Deliver a hospitality‑first experience by engaging warmly with every dog and making each visit feel welcoming and stress‑free
• Keep play areas and accommodations clean, including clean‑up of bodily functions and proper use of cleaning chemicals
• Follow all feeding, medication, exercise and allergy protocols for every animal in care
• Sanitize bedding, dishes, toys, and accessories; restock supplies as needed
• Assist with lobby customer relations, ensuring pet parents feel informed and at ease
• Assist with grooming tasks (bathing, brushing, drying)
• Pitch in on additional tasks that contribute to the overall culture, pet wellbeing, and hospitality experience at LFKC
• Work respectfully with teammates and maintain a positive, professional attitude at all times

Skills

Knowledge of dog behaviors

Communication skills

Teamwork

Safety awareness

Attention to detail

Following directions

Calm under pressure

Physical stamina

Flexibility

Job description

Lake Forest Kennel Club is seeking a compassionate Pack Leader to supervise and care for dogs in our daycare and boarding programs. You will help keep the facility safe, clean, and welcoming, delivering premium, attentive service to pet parents.

We offer dental and vision benefits, a 401(k) with company match after 90 days, medical benefits at 6 months, and our Shared Ownership Program after one year, plus DayPlay discounts.