Canine Enrichment Counselor (Dog Handler)

About us

Sterling K-9 Retreat is a small business in Westerville, OH. We are fast-paced, engaging, inclusive and our goal is to create a place you want to come to! Not looking for experience, looking for dependable people who want to learn and grow within the company.

Our work environment includes:

• Company perks
• Casual work attire
• Safe work environment
• Relaxed atmosphere
• Growth opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• On-the-job training
• Lively atmosphere

General Summary of Job

The Canine Enrichment Counselor is responsible for the supervision, control and management of daycare dogs participating in enrichment activities and ensuring the safety of the playgroup. The counselor will ensure the appropriate and safe use of all enrichment equipment and obstacles. Additionally, the counselor is responsible for the maintenance and cleaning of the playrooms, enrichment rooms and equipment as well as other areas of the facility as assigned. The Enrichment Counselor works under the supervision of the General Manager.

Primary Duties

1. Dog Enrichment

• Prepare enrichment supplies, equipment and rooms for daily activities as planned by Senior Enrichment Counselor or Coordinator.
• Execute scheduled enrichment activities as assigned by Coordinator.
• Document enrichment session progress and results for each dog for preparation of report cards.
• Clean enrichment equipment and rooms.

2. Dog Management

• Interact with dogs in playgroups using appropriate toys and tools to ensure safe levels of play and minimizing stress levels of all dogs in playgroup. Maintain visual observation of dogs at all times and spread attention and play among all dogs in playgroup.
• Control level of play by following dog management and control procedures and instructions provided by Pet Care Coordinator.
• Use proper dog handling techniques including use of kennel leads to transfer dogs.
• Use proper dog introduction procedures.
• Use appropriate praise and dog redirection methods.
• Ensure you know all dogs in playgroup and can properly identify them. If not, request assistance from Coordinator. Use paper id collars to identify dogs that are similar in appearance.
• Watch all new dogs carefully and immediately consult with Pet Care Coordinator if you have concerns. For all dogs in playgroup; report any unusual behavior, or eliminations and injuries to the Coordinator immediately.
• Review special needs list and manage dogs as instructed. Complete the maintenance report for all dogs in playgroup.
• Ensure staff that relieve you for break or shift change know all dogs in group, the special needs dog status and any unusual behaviors or concerns you have been managing during your shift. If the next shift staff is not available, update the Coordinator before leaving.
• Plan how dogs will be put in enclosures for meals in accordance to procedure. Consult Coordinator if you have concerns on being able to put all dogs away properly in your playroom.
• Review information on whiteboard in hall and in playroom before start of shift and comply with instructions. Review dog profile of any dog you do not know prior to starting shift.
• Complete dog incident reports timely when required. If you are not sure whether a report is required check with Coordinator.
• Complete maintenance or repair reports as needed. Immediately report any out of stock items to Floater or Coordinator.

3. Lodging Dog Duties

• Provide potty breaks and exercise and enrichment sessions for lodging dogs as assigned. Potty area visits should be a minimum of 15 minutes per dog per session (3 potty area visits per day). Document on lodging report results of each potty break.
• Maintain each pet’s room to ensure that the dog has water and the room is clean and dry.
• Perform lodging dog exercise/enrichment sessions and give treats as assigned. Be sure to sign off on the exercise & treat schedules and each dog’s lodging report that tasks have been completed.
• Ensure that potty area and room areas are clean at end of assignment.

4. Floater and Cleaning Duties

• Complete floater duties as described in Floater Duties Checklist. Turn in completed checklist at end of shift. Advise Coordinator or management of any incomplete duties that will need attention from the overnight staff.
• Complete cleaning duties as assigned and indicate proper completion by signing the Monthly Cleaning Checklist.
• Maintenance potty areas in accordance to procedures.
• Report supplies needed to Coordinator prior to running completely out of item.

Review overnight folder, dog board and review dog profiles upon arrival. Clarify any concerns prior to Coordinator or management leaving for day.

• Read all Lodging Cards and ensure all dogs are properly fed.
• Maintain safety of all dogs during shift. If you must leave the play floor put high energy, snappy or potential problem dogs in runs/crates prior to leaving playroom.
• In the event of a dog incident or emergency contact management at home immediately. If you do not reach them, contact a Pet Care Coordinator. If no one is reached follow emergency procedures.
• Enforce Company policies regarding approved drop-off and pick-up times. Contact management to approve an unexpected client drop-off. Do not allow unknown persons into property after hours. Staff visitors are not allowed in premises after hours without prior approval from management.
• In the event you note unknown persons on the grounds that are disturbing you and/or dogs or damaging property, call the police. If immediate danger is a concern call 911, if not use the police non-emergency number. Complete an incident report for management.

7. Other duties as assigned

Minimum Experience, Skills, Certification or Academic Background Required:

1. High school graduate or GED preferred

2. Good oral communication skills

3. Previous work experience demonstrating dependability

4. Self-motivated, independent worker

5. Proven ability to follow instructions and learn new things

6. Ability to work in a team environment

7. Demonstrated flexibility and proven coping skills

*Even if you don’t 100% qualify, still apply. We are seeking honest, humble, and forward-thinking people!

• Hourly Rate: $13/hr to start.
• Benefits include: Health Insurance
• Opportunity for Personal and Professional growth
• Flexible Work Schedule
• Quarterly Incentives
• Free Lunches
• Discounted Services
• And More!

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract

Pay: $11.00 - $15.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Professional development assistance

Day range:

• Holidays
• Weekends as needed

Shift:

• 10 hour shift
• 4 hour shift
• Afternoon shift
• After school
• Day shift
• Evening shift

Work setting:

• In-person

Application Question(s):

• Can you work the afternoon (1:30pm-7pm) and weekends?

Language:

• English (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Westerville, OH 43081 (Required)

Work Location: In person