Torchora
Back to Home

Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Veterinary Kennel Assistant

💰 $28,000 - $40,000

Animal CareVeterinary SupportKennel OperationsPet HealthAnimal Services

🎯 Role Definition

A Veterinary Kennel Assistant provides direct care to animals in a veterinary clinic, shelter, or boarding facility. Responsibilities include feeding, grooming, exercising, and monitoring animal health, as well as maintaining clean and safe kennel environments. The role supports veterinary staff in clinical procedures, ensures animal comfort and welfare, and facilitates smooth daily operations of the kennel or animal care facility.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Animal Care Intern
  • Veterinary Assistant Trainee
  • Kennel Support Staff

Advancement To:

  • Senior Kennel Technician
  • Veterinary Assistant
  • Veterinary Care Coordinator

Lateral Moves:

  • Animal Shelter Technician
  • Pet Boarding Coordinator

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  1. Feed, water, and provide routine care to animals under veterinary supervision.
  2. Monitor and record animal behavior, appetite, and general health daily.
  3. Clean and sanitize kennels, cages, and animal living areas according to established protocols.
  4. Administer basic treatments and medications as directed by veterinary staff.
  5. Assist in restraining animals for examinations, procedures, or treatments.
  6. Bathe, groom, and maintain the hygiene of animals in the facility.
  7. Maintain accurate animal care records, including intake, feeding, and medical updates.
  8. Exercise animals to maintain physical and mental well-being.
  9. Observe animals for signs of illness, injury, or distress and report to veterinary staff.
  10. Assist with admissions, discharges, and animal transfers.
  11. Support veterinary staff during surgical or diagnostic procedures as needed.
  12. Maintain cleanliness and order in storage areas, treatment rooms, and animal play areas.
  13. Monitor and restock food, medications, and kennel supplies.
  14. Ensure compliance with safety, biohazard, and infection control protocols.
  15. Handle animals humanely, providing comfort and reassurance to reduce stress.
  16. Participate in routine vaccinations, deworming, or preventive care programs.
  17. Facilitate enrichment activities and socialization for animals to promote well-being.
  18. Assist with client interactions related to kennel operations, such as intake and pick-up instructions.
  19. Monitor kennel environment for temperature, ventilation, and cleanliness standards.
  20. Support adoption events, community outreach, or educational programs when required.
  21. Maintain confidentiality of client and patient information.
  22. Participate in team meetings, training, and continuing education programs.

Secondary Functions

  • Support ad-hoc data requests and exploratory data analysis.
  • Contribute to the organization's data strategy and roadmap.
  • Collaborate with veterinary teams to translate animal care data into improved operational processes.
  • Participate in workflow planning and continuous improvement initiatives within the kennel.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Knowledge of basic animal care, handling, and welfare standards.
  • Experience with feeding, grooming, and exercising animals.
  • Familiarity with cleaning, sanitization, and kennel maintenance procedures.
  • Ability to assist with medical treatments and medication administration under supervision.
  • Competence in record-keeping and documentation for animal care activities.
  • Knowledge of infection control and biohazard safety protocols.
  • Basic understanding of animal behavior and stress management techniques.
  • Ability to assist in restraint and handling for examinations.
  • Experience with inventory management of animal supplies and medications.
  • Basic proficiency in supporting veterinary procedures and clinical operations.

Soft Skills

  • Strong attention to detail and observational skills.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
  • Patience and empathy in handling animals and working with clients.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
  • Team-oriented with strong collaboration skills.
  • High degree of reliability and accountability.
  • Professionalism and ethical behavior in animal care.
  • Ability to adapt to changing animal needs and emergency situations.
  • Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
  • Commitment to continuous learning and skill development in veterinary support.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; vocational training in animal care preferred.

Preferred Education:

  • Certificate or associate degree in Veterinary Technology, Animal Science, or related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Veterinary Technology
  • Animal Science
  • Animal Care & Welfare
  • Pet Services

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1–3 years of experience in animal care, kennel operations, or veterinary support.

Preferred:

  • Hands-on experience in a veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or boarding facility.
  • Familiarity with multiple animal species and their care requirements.
Explore More Careers