Dog Caregiver

Job Description

Job Description

About the Organization

Liberty Dogs™ is a premier Service Dog training program whose goal is to empower Veterans with disabilities to lead more independent and fulfilling lives - enhancing their well-being through the unconditional support that Liberty Service Dogs provide.  Located on a 27-acre campus, it includes a training facility, dog housing, an administrative and multipurpose building, and accommodations for Veterans staying on campus to train with their Liberty Service Dogs.

Position Summary

Dog Caregivers are responsible for providing humane, high-quality daily care for all dogs housed at the campus. This includes maintaining a clean, safe, and stimulating environment, monitoring their health and behavior, and assisting with their overall well-being to promote successful placements.

Key Responsibilities

Animal Husbandry & Cleaning:

• Cleaning and disinfecting dog kennels, runs, and common areas daily, following established disease control protocols.
• Provide fresh food and water to all dogs according to feeding schedules and dietary needs.
• Wash and sanitize food and water bowls, laundry (bedding, towels), and other shelter equipment.
• Ensure all animals have appropriate bedding and toys.
• Perform deep cleaning of vacated enclosures.

Animal Health & Welfare Monitoring:

• Observe animal appearance and activity for general physical condition, obvious signs of illness, injury, or distress (medical or behavioral).
• Promptly report any unusual conditions, changes in behavior, or signs of illness to the appropriate veterinary or supervisory staff.
• Administer medications as directed by veterinary staff.
• Assist with grooming tasks (bathing, brushing, nail trims) as needed.

Animal Handling & Enrichment:

• Safely and humanely handle and restrain dogs of various sizes, temperaments, and breeds.
• Provide regular exercise and outdoor time (e.g., walks, playtime) for dogs.
• Engage in enrichment activities to promote mental and physical well-being (e.g., toys, puzzles, positive human interaction).
• Assist with behavior shaping/training to enhance successful placement.

Record Keeping & Communication:

• Maintain accurate and timely records of feeding, medication administration, observations (health and behavior), and animal movements within the shelter management system.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with co-workers, volunteers, and the public regarding animal care and behavior.
• Collaborate with other departments (e.g., adoptions, medical, behavior team) to ensure seamless animal care and flow.

Shelter Operations:

• Assist with the intake and release of animals as directed.
• Monitor and restock supplies, notifying appropriate personnel when supplies are needed.
• Perform general cleaning and maintenance tasks throughout the shelter.
• Provide courteous assistance to volunteers and other staff members.
• Adhere to all shelter policies, procedures, and protocols.

Other Duties as Assigned.

Position Requirements, Skills & Qualifications

• Position Requirements
  • Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
  • Attention to small and large details
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
  • Previous experience in animal care, kennel work, or volunteering with animals (especially dogs) is highly preferred.
  • Flexibility in shift timing. Shifts available may be 5 day / 8 hour or 4 Day / 10 hour depending on need. Shifts are scheduled between 7 am-7 pm
  • Ability to work weekends

• Skills:
  • Strong love and compassion for animals, with a commitment to their welfare.
  • Excellent animal handling skills, with the ability to manage a variety of dog temperaments, including those that may be fearful or exhibit challenging behaviors.
  • Ability to learn and apply knowledge of common canine diseases, their symptoms, and means of transmission.
  • Attention to detail for observing animal health and behavior and maintaining accurate records.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, able to work effectively with staff, volunteers, and the public.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision as well as collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Patience, empathy, and the ability to remain calm and professional in potentially stressful situations.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to changing priorities and schedules.
  • Basic computer skills for record-keeping.

• Qualifications
  • Candidates must successfully pass a background check, possess a valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
  • High school diploma or equivalent. Additional education in animal care, veterinary technology, or a related field is a plus.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry materials and animals weighing up to 40 lbs. regularly and assist with larger animals (up to 90 lbs.).
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop, kneel, and twist for extended periods throughout the workday.
• Ability to perform repetitive motions of legs, arms, and hands.
• Comfort working in an environment with potential exposure to unpleasant odors, noises, animal waste, and the risk of bites or scratches.
• Must not have allergic conditions that would be aggravated by working with animals.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.

Why Join Liberty Dogs?

At Liberty Dogs Foundation, we live by a simple truth: We take care of those who have taken care of our great nation. This role is your opportunity to shape a program that will set a national standard in Veteran wellness and service dog partnerships—changing lives, one Veteran and one dog at a time.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law .