Pet Trainer I

Star Valley Veterinary Clinic; Purcellville (VA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates is seeking a Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to lead curriculum-based group classes and private sessions, applying learning theory with a compassionate, hands-on approach to help dogs and their families.

The ideal candidate has at least one year of relevant experience and a solid foundation in operant and classical conditioning, with excellent client communication and a focus on safety.

Qualifications

• A minimum of one year of professional, job-related experience in canine training or animal behavior is required.
• Strong foundational understanding of operant conditioning, classical conditioning, and modern reinforcement-based training techniques.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into accessible client instruction.

Responsibilities

• Instructional Leadership: Lead engaging group classes and customized private sessions for various breeds and temperaments.
• Behavioral Advocacy: Educate clients on canine behavior and promote patience and realistic expectations.
• Safety & Environment Management: Maintain a low-stress training environment ensuring comfort for pets and owners.
• Client Engagement: Act as a professional consultant providing actionable feedback and training demonstrations.
• Continuous Development: Participate in ongoing training to stay current with industry standards.

Skills

Operant conditioning

Classical conditioning

Reinforcement-based training

Communication

Job description

Hospital Name: Blue Ridge Veterinary Associates

Job Type: Support Staff

Description & Requirements

Canine Behavior & Training Specialist

Position Overview We are seeking a highly skilled Canine Behavior & Training Specialist to join our team. This role is designed for a professional who integrates advanced learning theory with a hands-on, empathetic approach to pet education. You will be responsible for facilitating both group curricula and private instructional sessions, serving as a primary resource for pet parents seeking to enhance their bond and communication with their dogs.

The ideal candidate will prioritize psychological safety and physical comfort, ensuring that the training process is a positive, supportive experience for all participants.

Key Responsibilities

Instructional Leadership: Facilitate engaging, curriculum-based group classes and customized individual training sessions for a diverse range of breeds, ages, and temperaments.

Behavioral Advocacy: Utilize comprehensive knowledge of learning theory to educate clients on canine behavior, promoting patience and realistic expectations throughout the developmental process.

Safety & Environment Management: Maintain a secure and low-stress training environment, proactively managing group dynamics to ensure the comfort of both pets and their owners.

Client Engagement: Act as a professional consultant for pet parents, providing actionable feedback and demonstrating training techniques that foster long-term success and bonding.

Continuous Development: Participate in ongoing on-the-job training to stay current with evolving industry standards and evidence-based training methodologies.

Professional Qualifications

Experience: A minimum of one year of professional, job-related experience in canine training or animal behavior is required.

Technical Knowledge: Strong foundational understanding of operant conditioning, classical conditioning, and modern reinforcement-based training techniques.

Communication: Exceptional interpersonal skills with the ability to translate complex behavioral concepts into accessible, encouraging instruction for clients.

Adaptability: Proven ability to manage a variety of canine personalities and client needs with professionalism and composure.

Our Commitment

We provide a collaborative professional environment where expertise is respected and pet welfare is the cornerstone of our mission. This position offers the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the lives of pets and the families who love them.