Dog Daycare Attendant

Its a Dogs Life MI Inc; Wixom (MI); On-site; USD 10,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Its a Dogs Life MI Inc is seeking a full-time Play Yard Coach to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs in our care. This role involves monitoring dog behaviors, leading engaging activities, and collaborating with a team to provide a nurturing environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong knowledge of dog behavior, excellent communication skills, and a commitment to maintaining safety and hygiene standards.

Benefits

Company parties

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Free food & snacks

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in dog daycare or a related animal care role preferred.
• Must be 18+ years old.
• Certified in Animal CPR/First Aid required within 90 days.

Responsibilities

• Ensure constant supervision in play yards and maintain dog safety.
• Conduct temperament assessments to introduce new dogs to groups.
• Engage dogs in play and enrichment activities.

Skills

Dog handling skills

Safety-first mindset

Clear communication

Problem-solving

Team collaboration

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Benefits:

Company parties

Competitive salary

Employee discounts

Free food & snacks

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Play Yard Coach

LOCATION: 46926 Magellan Dr., Wixom, MI 48393

JOB TYPE: Full-Time (Play Yard Coach + Hotel Runner)

**PAY SCALE: ** $13.00 - $17.00/hour DOE

ABOUT US:

It’s A Dog’s Life Resort & Spa is a premier dog care facility offering boarding, daycare, grooming, and training services. Our mission is to create a safe, enriching, and loving environment for every dog. Safety and care are not just priorities—they are the foundation of everything we do.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Play Yard Coach plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, care, and well-being of every dog in our facility. This position requires a deep understanding of dog breeds, behavior, temperaments, and play styles. The ideal candidate is highly observant, proactive in mitigating issues, and trained in positive reinforcement and behavior management.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES

Ensure a Safe Environment: Maintain constant supervision in play yards; assess body language, play dynamics, and potential stress indicators to prevent and de-escalate issues.

Breed & Temperament Knowledge: Apply deep understanding of breed tendencies and individual temperament in managing safe interactions and building appropriate playgroups.

Behavioral Management: Monitor dog behavior closely, providing structured coaching using positive reinforcement techniques; redirect unwanted behavior calmly and appropriately.

Conduct Evaluations: Perform Free Greet & Treats and temperament assessments to determine social compatibility and safely introduce new dogs to groups.

Health & Wellness Monitoring: Perform snout-to-tail assessments and report any signs of injury, illness, or abnormal behavior to management immediately.

Clean & Sanitize: Maintain pristine conditions in play yards and boarding areas through rigorous cleaning protocols, understanding the role hygiene plays in health and safety.

Engagement & Enrichment: Lead play and enrichment activities to keep dogs mentally and physically stimulated.

Documentation & Communication: Complete incident reports, behavior notes, and daily report cards with accuracy and professionalism. Take engaging photos and videos for client updates and marketing use.

Team Support: Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth daily operations and a consistent standard of care.

QUALIFICATIONS

1+ years of experience in dog daycare or a related animal care role preferred.

Strong working knowledge of dog behavior, breed traits, and social structures.

Must be 18+ years old with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Able to interpret canine body language and vocal cues.

Certified in (or willing to obtain within 90 days) Animal CPR/First Aid.

Physically able to stand, walk, and lift 50+ lbs. during full shifts.

Comfortable working with dogs of all breeds, sizes, and energy levels.

Reliable, punctual, and available weekends and holidays.

KEY COMPETENCIES

Dog handling skills (leashes, collars, harnesses, commands)

Safety-first mindset and strong situational awareness

Problem-solving and quick decision-making

Clear, respectful communication

Positive attitude and emotional resilience

Team collaboration and self-motivation

Commitment to our policies, procedures, and attendance standards

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Lift/carry 50+ lbs. of supplies or dogs.

Stand, walk, and actively manage dogs for the entirety of a shift.

Work in a loud, physically active, and outdoor/indoor environment in all weather.

NOTE: This job description is not exhaustive. Responsibilities may be modified based on operational needs.