Whelping Kennel Manager

At Guiding Eyes for the Blind, we are passionate about connecting exceptional dogs with individuals for greater independence. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is dedicated to creating and supporting life-changing connections between people and dogs.
At our facilities we breed, raise, and train exceptional dogs. Then we connect them to people who are seeking increased freedom and independence, so that together, they can experience all kinds of life adventures.  
Under the direction of the Breeding Programs Manager, the Whelping Kennel Manager will hold primary responsibility for all aspects of whelping and animal husbandry of dogs assigned to the Whelping Kennel.  You will facilitate and ensure that exemplary care, in a healthy mental and physical environment, is given to all dogs and puppies in the Whelping Kennel.  Other responsibilities include oversight of puppy socialization for behavioral development, equipment, supplies, inventory and ordering for Whelping Kennel related needs and supervision of Whelping Kennel Staff as well as Volunteers to ensure that care and operational standards are met, and protocols followed.     

The Role

• Oversight and support of all pregnant broods, whelps and neonates using current protocols as defined by Veterinary Staff; this does not require actual presence at all whelps but does require taking all precautions to ensure all necessary care is provided to the whelping brood and neonates.  Veterinary Staff will be consulted as needed.
• Oversee, direct, support and be able to perform as part of a team, all tasks associated with the Kennel Technician including, but not limited to, bathing, feeding, check overs, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and medicating according to established policies and procedures
• Plan and take part in rotation with Senior Staff to provide 'on-call' services for urgent issues or emergencies that arise beyond the expertise of on-duty staff, via telephone consults or on-site assistance, particularly with medical aspects of whelping and neonatal care
• Direct the work of Kennel Staff to ensure that all daily duties/kennel work is performed in accordance with established guidelines and that adequate support is available to carry out same
• Oversee training of all Staff as well as provide coaching and mentoring, fostering an atmosphere of growth, independence and critical thinking
• Collaborate with other departments to support the Guiding Eyes mission, most commonly Veterinary, Genetics/Breeding, Breeding Kennel, and Home and Early Socialization
• Adjust capability to meet fluctuations in puppy production
• Maintain accurate and timely records utilizing point of entry system
• Overnight support of our Home Litter Care Program
• Work with Volunteers providing support, guidance, and recognition
• Perform other duties and projects as assigned

Qualifications You Will Need

• Minimum of three years' experience whelping dogs and caring for pregnant broods and neonates in a Kennel or Vet environment, or similar dog related business
• Three to five years' experience in Leadership managing a team with an emphasis on team building, supervision, delegation and support
• Strong relationship-builder with the ability to find a common purpose, build consensus and strengthen collaboration
• Licensed Veterinary Technician preferred
• High degree of competency in all Kennel Technician duties
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Proven organizational and planning skills with a demonstrated ability to lead and manage change
• Ability to accurately assess situations and make quick, sound judgements independently when it comes to animal husbandry and staffing needs
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities
• Reliability, high level of integrity and punctuality are essential
• This is an essential personnel position so flexibility in availability is a must; including weekends, evenings and holidays are required as needed in addition to ability to cover on-call shifts outside of regular hours when scheduled and report to work for emergencies
• Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office programs; Salesforce savvy a plus
• Physically able to lift, carry and handle 65-75 pound dogs and withstand up to two hours of repetitive bending, stooping, kneeling, and squatting on concrete surface

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this role 

Guiding Eyes for the Blind offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Competitive and generous healthcare (Medical/Dental/Vision)
• Life Insurance
• 403(b)
• Paid Time Off and Holidays

Salary Range $55k - $65k.  The provided compensation range is based on industry standards and salary determinations will be made based on numerous factors.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER M/F, D/V
Must be authorized to work in the United States