Dog Handler

Pawsability Dog Club is searching for an experienced Pet Counselor for our mission-driven dog daycare!

Part one of our mission is providing outstanding dog care in our stunning, newly-built Bushwick facility. Pawsability provides daycare, grooming, walking and training services--we do not offer boarding services so no late evenings for you! Part two of our mission is supporting a job Training Program for autistic adults. This program allows participants to learn, gain experience and meaningful employment in the dog care industry.

The Pet Counselor is responsible for all aspects of animal care within the facility. Such as supervising dog interactions, observing for health/behavior concerns, administering medications and meals, ensuring a clean and safe space, assisting with dog walking or bathing appointments, etc.

As needed, they might also be cross-trained on Front Desk duties so they are able to confidently and competently assist clients as well as utilize our kennel specific software. The third aspect of the Pet Counselor responsibility is to assist, as needed, autistic persons with who participate in our Training Program.

The ideal applicant has demonstrated a pattern of reliability and gained valuable experience while working in other dog daycare facilities for 6 months to 1 year. They are the best of the best at what they do. The Pet Counselor needs to be a team player as well as respectful and accommodating of other employees and trainees at Pawsability. The Pet Counselor precisely follows PDC operating procedures, is able to operate independently and utilize their time effectively.

Primary Duties

1. Supervise, document correct and report any behavior or health concerns with our dogs. Relay critical information to client, Senior Pet Counselors and General Manager as needed. Ensure new dogs safely and comfortably assimilate into dog group, isolate any dogs with health or behavior concerns.

2. Guide PDC counselors as needed. Patience, tolerance and a teamwork "we not I" ethic is crucial to our success.

3. Perform cross-trained duties to a high standard whenever needed (front desk, dog walking, bathing).

4. Maintain professionalism and act as a role model to Trainees, clients and the public. Follow proper PDC procedure at all times and maintain a positive attitude.

5. Feed and dispense medication

6. Perform dog temperament tests

7. Complete daily operations efficiently and effectively. In down time, work on projects or one-off tasks to improve the cleanliness, function or environment of our facility. Promote our services by demonstrating impeccable service, genuine caring for the well-being of our dogs and by your attention to detail.

8. Remove and put on dog collars, harnesses, etc. correctly and safely. Take dogs from owner, return to owner, transport dogs to/from home and take dogs for relief time in outdoor dog park safely and without incident. Always be aware of safety concerns with ill-fitting gear or improperly applied gear, double checking prior to taking dog out of a secured environment and always, always using safety equipment when possible.

9. Assist with social media and report cards--our customers LOVE receiving these!

10. Additional projects or tasks may be assigned as needed to support the team, facility or clients.

Education Requirements & Qualifications

1. High school graduate or GED

2. Good oral & written communication skills

3. Previous work experience demonstrating dependability

4. Minimum 6 months to 1 year of employment experience providing dog care to canine social groups.

5. Proven leadership skills and ability to work independently

6. Ability to teach others. Explain, demonstrate, quiz, observe and provide feedback. Ability to do this while remaining calm and with patience.

7. Ability to work in a team environment

8. Good decision and problem-solving skills

9. Good organization and planning skills

10. A genuine interest and experience in working with neurodivergent individuals is a plus!

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $16.00 - $17.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance

Schedule:

• Evening shift
• Monday to Friday

Application Question(s):

• Do you have 6 months to 1 year of experience working with dogs in a daycare or related facility? Fill in "yes" or "no" below.
• Are you aware that this is a part time position?
• This role is Mon-Fri 1pm-6:15pm

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)

Ability to Relocate:

• Brooklyn, NY 11237: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person