Kennel Assistant

Associated Veterinary Partners; Owosso (MI); On-site; USD 18,914 - 19,630; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) with match

Health insurance

Paid time off

Employee pet care discount

Flexible scheduling

Job summary

Pinecrest Animal Hospital in Owosso, MI is seeking a full-time Kennel Assistant to join our clinical team. You will care for dogs and cats, keep kennels clean, assist with baths, and support veterinary staff with safe animal handling.

We value reliability, willingness to learn, and a positive attitude. The role requires lifting up to 50 pounds and availability on weekends and some holidays to ensure continuous patient care.

Qualifications

• Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments.
• Willing to learn and be trained in hospital protocols.
• Ability to perform physical tasks like bending, standing, and walking for long periods.
• Must be able to safely lift 50 pounds.
• Weekend and holiday availability required.

Responsibilities

• Provide gentle, compassionate care to all animals in our facility.
• Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, and animal areas.
• Walk, feed, and observe pets; report any changes to the medical team.
• Assist with bathing and light grooming tasks.
• Restock supplies in exam rooms and treatment areas.
• Assist with restraining animals during exams or treatments under supervision.

Skills

Animal care

Kennel experience

Multitasking

Teamwork

Reliability

Job description

Kennel Assistant (full-time)
Pinecrest Animal Hospital – Owosso, MI

About Us

Pinecrest Animal Hospital is a progressive, innovative small animal practice in Owosso, Michigan. Our team is known for delivering high-quality care using advanced diagnostics and treatments—including ultrasound, echocardiography, full in-house lab work, laser therapy, and a wide range of surgical procedures from routine to complex.

Our story began in 1953 with Dr. Jerry Fries, a legendary mixed animal practitioner who served his community with dedication—even making house calls by plane and motorcycle! Since then, the hospital has evolved under compassionate, forward-thinking leadership, and today we continue that legacy of excellence under Dr. Pritpal Rangi.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a full-time Kennel Assistant, you’ll be a vital part of our clinical team. Key responsibilities include:

• Provide gentle, compassionate care to all animals in our facility

• Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, and animal areas
• Walk, feed, and observe pets throughout the day, noting any changes
• Assist with bathing and light grooming tasks
• Keep laundry, dishes, and common areas clean and organized
• Help veterinary and technician staff with safe animal handling
• Report any signs of illness, stress, or unusual behavior to the medical team
• Follow all hospital protocols and safety procedures
• Help restock supplies in exam rooms and treatment areas
• Alert team members to low inventory of cleaning or animal care supplies
• Assist with keeping outdoor areas (yards/runs) clean and secure
• Assist with restraining animals during exams or treatments (under supervision)

What We’re Looking For

• Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments
• Previous animal care or kennel experience preferred, but not required. We will train qualified candidates!
• Veterinary clinic experience is a plus
• Must be able to safely lift 50 pounds
• Ability to perform physical tasks like bending, standing, and walking for long periods
• Skilled at multitasking in a fast-paced environment
• Eagerness to learn and grow within the field
• Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
• Team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic
• Willing to work weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts as needed

Schedule

• Full-time (8–10 hour shifts)
• Monday - Friday
• Availability on Saturday's required
• No Sunday Hours

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay:$13.73– $14.25 (based on experience)
• 401(k) with match
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee pet care discount
• Flexible scheduling