Kennel Assistant

Do you have a passion for animals? Animal Emergency & Specialty Hospital in Byron Center, MI is seeking dedicated Kennel Assistants to join their team! We have part-time and full-time positions available, as well as day, swing, and night shift opportunities available. Typical shifts are 8 to 12 hours, and weekend and holiday availability are required. The purpose of the Kennel Assistant is to provide husbandry care for the patients, assistance to all doctors and staff, and maintenance care to the facility and hospital grounds. The role is valued as an integral position within the overall hospital team.

Animal Emergency & Specialty Hospital in Byron Center, MI is a growing 24-hour Emergency & Specialty hospital offering a fast-paced work and rewarding environment. Our seasoned Emergency Veterinarians, Technicians, and Assistants pride themselves on providing high-quality medical care to our patients around the clock.

Our new, state-of-the-art, Emergency & Specialty hospital provides 10,000 square feet to allow for 24-hour Emergency & Critical Care to our community. Our hospital is located close to Tanger Outlet Mall. Byron Center is also home to unique independent stores, many comfort-food restaurants, and abundant recreation opportunities. Byron Center is easily accessible from two major expressways and is just 15 minutes from downtown Grand Rapids.

As a Kennel Assistant, you will be responsible for:

·         Ensure appropriate husbandry and routine attention for all patients in the hospital including observing and reporting any concerns associated with patient’s health status to the shift leader, walking patients, bathing patients that are soiled, providing adequate comfort and bedding, cleaning patient cages and litter boxes, and prepare meals to all patients in the hospital

·         Notify shift leader of any problems associated with IVF pumps or any other equipment the patient is using (syringe pump, hot dog warmer, etc.)

·         Clean and disinfect areas of the hospital as often as is necessary to maintain high standards of care, complete daily task list with detail and efficiency

·         Restock all medical and husbandry supplies

·         Safely restrain patients as needed for veterinary assistants and technicians during treatments

·         Perform additional tasks as deemed appropriate by your shift leader and/or supervisor

·         Demonstrate compassion and gentle care of all hospital patients

Equipment:

• Hospital computers, laptops, printers, and software operating system
• Basic veterinary medical equipment
• Basis animal husbandry equipment and supplies
• Housekeeping equipment and supplies
• Landscape maintenance equipment and supplies

Knowledge/Skills:

• Basis knowledge of animal husbandry care
• Basic working knowledge of commonly used veterinary equipment
• Basic working knowledge of veterinary nursing and patient care
• Good working knowledge of patient restraint techniques
• Basic computer skills; good communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to make sound decisions; seek instruction and direction as necessary
• Ability to receive, process, and follow directions and instructions

Physical:

• Able to properly restrain dog and cat patients for veterinary care and procedures
• Able to stand, sit, bend, restrain, squat for extended periods of time
• Able to lift 40 lbs in a safe manner and be exposed to hazards associated with pets such as allergies, contagious diseases, noises, odors, bites, scratches, and animal waste
• Able to type, write and verbally converse
• Able to work the posted schedule

AEH is an Equal Opportunity Employer. AEH does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, competence, merit, and business need.

COVID-19 considerations:
We make every effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We allow clients into the building, but mask requirement is in place for both clients and staff at all times.