Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Kennel Supervisor
💰 $45,000 - $65,000
Animal CareManagementOperationsCustomer Service
🎯 Role Definition
The Kennel Supervisor is responsible for the direct management of kennel staff, the coordination of daily animal care routines, and the maintenance of a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for all pets and clients. This individual acts as the primary point of contact for operational matters, ensuring adherence to all policies and procedures while fostering a positive and efficient team culture. You will be the cornerstone of our daily operations, guaranteeing exceptional care for the animals and outstanding service for their owners.
📈 Career Progression
Typical Career Path
Entry Point From:
- Senior Kennel Technician
- Lead Animal Care Attendant
- Veterinary Assistant with leadership experience
Advancement To:
- Kennel Manager / Facility Manager
- Animal Shelter Director
- Regional Operations Manager (for multi-location businesses)
Lateral Moves:
- Veterinary Practice Manager
- Dog Daycare Manager
- Grooming Salon Manager
Core Responsibilities
Primary Functions
- Supervise and coordinate the daily activities of kennel technicians and animal care staff, including task delegation, workflow management, and performance monitoring.
- Develop and manage staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage for all shifts, including weekends and holidays, while optimizing for labor efficiency and budget.
- Conduct comprehensive, hands-on training for new and existing staff on proper animal handling, low-stress restraint techniques, feeding protocols, and sanitation procedures.
- Oversee the daily health and wellness checks of all boarded animals, promptly identifying and reporting any signs of illness, stress, or injury to veterinary staff or management.
- Ensure the accurate and timely administration of all medications, supplements, special diets, and other specific care instructions as provided by pet owners or veterinarians.
- Maintain impeccable standards of cleanliness, disinfection, and sanitation throughout the facility, including all kennels, play yards, food preparation zones, and client-facing areas.
- Manage the complete client and pet lifecycle process, from intake and check-in to discharge, ensuring all paperwork is completed accurately and client instructions are clearly documented.
- Serve as the primary point of escalation for client concerns or complaints, resolving issues with professionalism and empathy to ensure customer satisfaction and retention.
- Implement, enforce, and regularly review all facility policies and procedures related to animal safety, staff conduct, and emergency response protocols.
- Monitor and manage the inventory of all kennel supplies, including pet food, cleaning products, bedding, and enrichment toys, placing orders as needed to prevent shortages.
- Conduct regular performance evaluations for kennel staff, providing constructive feedback, coaching, and implementing professional development plans to foster team growth.
- Lead daily team huddles or meetings to communicate priorities, discuss specific animal needs, and address any operational challenges in a proactive manner.
- Maintain detailed and accurate digital and physical records for each animal, including feeding schedules, medication logs, behavioral notes, and any observed health concerns.
- Ensure all enrichment and exercise programs, including group play and individual sessions, are conducted safely and effectively, providing appropriate social interaction for all pets.
- Collaborate with senior management to develop and refine operational protocols aimed at improving efficiency, enhancing animal welfare, and elevating the client experience.
- Actively participate in the hiring and onboarding process for new kennel staff, from screening and interviewing candidates to leading comprehensive orientation and training.
- Manage the facility's daily opening and closing procedures, ensuring the building is secure, alarms are set, and everything is prepared for the next business day.
- Uphold and actively promote a positive, compassionate, and team-oriented work environment that prioritizes animal welfare and staff well-being above all else.
- Perform hands-on kennel duties, including cleaning, feeding, and animal handling, as needed to support the team during peak times or in the event of staff shortages.
- Ensure full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to animal boarding facilities, animal welfare, and workplace safety.
- Handle and thoroughly document any animal-related incidents, such as altercations or injuries, following established protocols and communicating effectively with all involved parties.
- Facilitate safe and controlled group play sessions by accurately assessing dog temperaments and ensuring appropriate play styles and energy levels are matched.
Secondary Functions
- Assist in managing the facility's social media presence by providing engaging photos and positive updates on boarded pets (with owner consent).
- Support community outreach and local marketing events to promote the facility's services and build brand awareness.
- Conduct regular facility and equipment safety inspections, coordinating repairs or preventative maintenance as necessary to ensure a safe environment.
- Contribute to annual budget planning by providing data-driven insights on staffing needs, supply costs, and potential capital improvements.
Required Skills & Competencies
Hard Skills (Technical)
- Advanced Animal Handling & Low-Stress Restraint Techniques
- Deep Knowledge of Animal Health, Nutrition, and Common Illnesses
- Proficient Medication Administration (Oral, Topical, Injectable)
- Experience with Kennel Management Software (e.g., Gingr, PetExec, Kennel Connection)
- Staff Scheduling, Timekeeping, and Labor Management
- Expertise in Sanitation Protocols and Infectious Disease Control
- Advanced Canine and Feline Behavior and Body Language Interpretation
- Certification in Pet First Aid & CPR
- Inventory Control and Supply Chain Management
- Meticulous Record-Keeping and Data Management
- Basic Facility Maintenance and Safety Procedures
Soft Skills
- Inspirational Leadership and Team Motivation
- Exceptional Interpersonal and Communication Skills
- Advanced Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Conflict Resolution and De-escalation
- Empathy, Compassion, and Patience
- Superior Organization and Time Management
- Unwavering Commitment to Customer Service Excellence
- Adaptability and Composure Under Pressure
Education & Experience
Educational Background
Minimum Education:
- High School Diploma or GED.
Preferred Education:
- Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.
Relevant Fields of Study:
- Animal Science
- Veterinary Technology
- Biology
- Business Management
Experience Requirements
Typical Experience Range:
- 3-5 years of hands-on experience in a professional animal care environment (e.g., kennel, veterinary clinic, animal shelter, or daycare).
Preferred:
- A minimum of 2 years in a supervisory, team lead, or assistant manager role is strongly preferred.
- Certification from a recognized organization (e.g., Certified Professional Animal Care Manager - PACCC) is a significant plus.