Compassionate Kennel Attendant - Flexible Hours

Lake Forest Animal Hospital; Forest (VA); On-site; USD 15,000 - 21,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off

Paid holidays

Employee assistance program

Job summary

Lake Forest Animal Hospital in Forest, Virginia is seeking a Kennel Attendant to care for boarded and hospitalized pets and support the veterinary team. You will ensure clean, comfortable spaces and compassionate handling during every shift.

Key duties include feeding, walking, bathing, monitoring health, transporting animals, assisting with procedures, greeting clients, and maintaining infection control and supplies according to hospital protocols.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience in a kennel, animal care, or boarding facility preferred.
• Commitment to cleanliness, safety, and compassionate animal care.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds and safely handle animals up to 150 pounds.
• Comfortable sitting, standing, walking, bending, and kneeling for extended periods.
• Professional, neat appearance consistent with hospital standards.

Responsibilities

• Provide daily care for boarded animals, including feeding, watering, walking, bathing, and monitoring behavior and health.
• Safely transport animals between kennels, exam rooms, and the lobby, ensuring gentle handling and patient comfort.
• Assist veterinarians and technicians with restraint, positioning, and minor procedures as directed.
• Follow detailed feeding, medication, and exercise instructions for boarding pets.
• Monitor and report any health or behavioral changes in animals to kennel leadership/medical team promptly.
• Maintain cleanliness, disinfection, and organization of kennels, runs, and facility areas, including outdoor spaces, in accordance with hospital protocols and operating standards.
• Support a positive client experience by greeting owners, answering phones, assisting with belongings, and ensuring clear and calm communication throughout the boarding process.
• Assist in completion of daily opening, closing, and cleaning checklists to a high standard.
• Manage inventory of cleaning and kennel supplies and report replenishment needs as appropriate.
• Unpack and organize deliveries, restock treatment and exam areas, and remove expired or damaged items as needed.
• Work collaboratively and proactively with team members, offering help whenever needed to support smooth hospital operations.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Skills

Compassionate animal care

Team collaboration

Physical stamina

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Previous kennel/animal care experience preferred

Job description

Lake Forest Animal Hospital in Forest, Virginia is seeking a Kennel Attendant to care for boarded and hospitalized pets and support the veterinary team. You will ensure clean, comfortable spaces and compassionate handling during every shift.

Key duties include feeding, walking, bathing, monitoring health, transporting animals, assisting with procedures, greeting clients, and maintaining infection control and supplies according to hospital protocols.