Canine Daycare Attendant

Job Description Position Summary

The Boarding and Daycare Attendant supports safe, clean, and enriching care for pets staying in our boarding and daycare facility. This role focuses on animal handling, cleaning and sanitation, feeding, monitoring health and behavior, and providing a positive experience for pets and pet parents.

• Safely handle dogs and cats of varying sizes, temperaments, and energy levels.
• Monitor pets for signs of illness, injury, stress, or behavior concerns and report changes to the supervisor or manager immediately.
• Maintain appropriate group play supervision in daycare (prevent rough play, manage introductions, separate when needed).
• Follow all facility safety protocols, including leash handling, kennel door security, and bite prevention procedures.

• Prepare and serve meals according to written instructions (diet type, amount, schedule).
• Ensure fresh water is available at all times.
• Administer medications and supplements only as trained or authorized and accurately document all doses given.
• Report missed meals, vomiting or diarrhea, or medication concerns promptly.

• Clean and disinfect kennels and runs, play yards, litter areas, food and water bowls, and common areas following proper protocols and chemical dilution guidelines.
• Perform end-of-shift cleaning checklists thoroughly (spot cleaning, deep cleaning rotations, laundry, trash removal).
• Maintain odor control and facility presentation standards.

• Provide potty breaks, walks, playtime, and basic enrichment activities based on each pet’s needs.
• Use calm, low-stress handling techniques when possible to reduce stress.
• Offer basic grooming support as trained (brushing, wiping paws, basic coat checks).

• Assist with pet check-in and check-out tasks (confirm belongings, note feeding and medication instructions, update report cards).
• Communicate professionally and kindly with pet parents when interacting on the floor.
• Help keep lobby and entry areas clean and organized.

• Work closely with the kennel or resort manager and team to prioritize daily care schedules.
• Restock supplies (cleaning items, laundry, food storage, PPE) and notify leadership when inventory is low.
• Follow written SOPs, daily schedules, and posted checklists consistently.
• Maintain accurate documentation (feeding charts, daycare notes, incident reports).

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Animal handling experience preferred (boarding/daycare, shelter, grooming, veterinary, or personal experience).
• Must be reliable, punctual, and able to follow detailed instructions.
• Comfortable working around pet waste, cleaning chemicals, barking, and strong odors.

• Strong attention to detail and cleanliness standards.
• Calm, confident animal handling and ability to read body language.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced environment.
• Positive attitude, teamwork mindset, and willingness to learn.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 to 50 lbs (with assistance as needed).
• Ability to bend, squat, kneel, and perform repetitive cleaning tasks.
• Ability to safely manage dogs on leash and in group play environments.

• Must be available for a mix of opening and closing shifts as scheduled.
• Weekend and holiday availability is often required due to pet care needs.
• Overtime may be required during peak boarding seasons.

• Follows all safety and sanitation protocols consistently.
• Completes assigned checklists fully and on time.
• Demonstrates kind, respectful handling of pets and professional conduct with clients and coworkers.
• Communicates concerns promptly and documents care accurately.

National Veterinary Associates is a leading global pet care organization united in the love of animals and the people who love them. At NVA, we’re on a mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who love them. That starts by empowering our care teams. We nurture their growth with resources to…