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Dog Kennel Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Kennel Supervisor

Fairport, NY ยท On-site

$17 - $18.50/hr

Must be comfortable and confident handling cats and dogs of all sizes. Experience & Skills * Kennel technician or animal care experience required * Comfortable handling animals of all sizes and ...

Dog Trainer

Batavia, NY ยท On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Dog Trainer

Batavia, NY ยท On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Dog Trainer

Greece, NY ยท On-site

In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree personalized solutions for the unique needs of pets and pet parents. You'll positively impact the ...

Ruff Day Resort is looking for an experienced Dog Trainer. He/she will work with dogs and puppies of all ages in our facility and in some client settings. The ideal person for this position ...

Part Time Dog Trainer

Webster, NY ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Ruff Day Resort is looking for an experienced Dog Trainer. He/she will work with dogs and puppies of all ages in our facility and in some client settings. The ideal person for this position ...

Ruff Day Resort is looking for an experienced Dog Trainer. He/she will work with dogs and puppies of all ages in our facility and in some client settings. The ideal person for this position ...

Part Time Dog Trainer

Webster, NY ยท On-site

$16 - $22/hr

Ruff Day Resort is looking for an experienced Dog Trainer. He/she will work with dogs and puppies of all ages in our facility and in some client settings. The ideal person for this position ...

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Dog Kennel information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$8

$17

$27

How much do dog kennel jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for dog kennel in Rochester, NY is $17.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.99 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dog kennel?

Dog kennels are facilities that provide care, housing, and supervision for dogs when their owners are unable to do so. They offer services such as boarding, feeding, exercising, and sometimes grooming or training. Dog kennel staff ensure the safety, cleanliness, and well-being of the dogs in their care, making sure each animal's needs are met. Many kennels also provide socialization opportunities for dogs and may accommodate special requirements or medical needs.

What are the qualifications to work in a dog kennel?

The qualifications that you need to work at a dog kennel depend on the details of your position and your responsibilities. All dog kennel staff members need skills in working with and handling animals. Some employers provide training for new employees, though most prefer you to already have experience working with dogs or other pets. Employees need at least a high school diploma for most positions, and trainers and groomers need certification in animal behavior training and pet grooming, respectively. Employers expect reception staff to have customer service skills and a friendly demeanor. You may also need administrative skills in this position.

What are some common challenges faced by dog kennel staff, and how can they be managed?

Dog kennel staff often encounter challenges such as managing multiple dogs with varying temperaments, maintaining cleanliness in a busy environment, and ensuring each animal receives proper care and attention. Effective communication with team members and following established protocols for feeding, exercise, and sanitation are essential to overcome these challenges. Additionally, learning to read canine body language and using positive reinforcement techniques can help prevent conflicts and ensure a safe, stress-free environment for both dogs and staff.

What is the difference between Dog Kennel vs Pet Groomer?

AspectDog KennelPet Groomer
CertificationsNone required, but certifications like CPDT-KA can helpGrooming certifications (e.g., NAPCG, ICMG) often preferred
Work EnvironmentKennels, animal shelters, boarding facilitiesGrooming salons, pet stores, mobile grooming vans
Job DutiesProviding shelter, feeding, basic careBathing, trimming, styling pets' fur
Industry UsageCommon in boarding and shelter facilitiesCommon in grooming salons and pet care services

While both roles involve caring for dogs, a Dog Kennel primarily focuses on providing shelter and basic care, whereas a Pet Groomer specializes in grooming and styling pets' fur. Certifications and work environments differ, but both are essential in the pet care industry.

How to get a job in a dog kennel?

To get a job in a dog kennel, applicants should have a genuine interest in animals, basic knowledge of pet care, and good physical stamina. Relevant experience, such as volunteering or working with animals, can improve chances, and some positions may require a high school diploma or certification in pet first aid. Applying directly to kennels, shelters, or pet care facilities and demonstrating reliability and a caring attitude are key steps.

Is dog kennel work a good career?

Dog kennel work involves caring for animals, cleaning kennels, and assisting with daily operations, often requiring physical stamina and attention to detail. It can be a rewarding entry-level job for animal lovers but typically offers limited advancement and lower pay compared to other veterinary or pet care careers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What are popular job titles related to Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY?

For Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Dog Kennel jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Dog Kennel jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Dog Kennel job openings:

Infographic showing various Dog Kennel job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,261 per year, or $17.4 per hour.

Kennel Supervisor

Fairview Veterinary Hospital

Fairport, NY โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Description

Kennel Supervisor

Fairview Veterinary Hospital

Fairport, NY

Full-Time


Care for Pets, Support a Team, Make a Difference Every Day

Thrive Natick is seeking a dependable and compassionate Kennel Attendant to support our boarding department. This role is perfect for someone who loves working hands‑on with animals and takes pride in creating a clean, safe, and comforting environment for pets while their families are away.

What You’ll Do

As a Kennel Attendant, you’ll help ensure our furry guests are happy, healthy, and well cared for by:

  • Overseeing training and daily responsibilities of the Kennel team.
  • Providing courteous customer service to pet parents. 
  • Monitoring pets, includes noting their behaviors such as eating, drinking, and identifying potential problems to the supervisor or Veterinarian. 
  • Maintaining the cleanliness of the hospital and boarding areas which includes but not limited to sweeping, mopping, dusting, scrubbing runs/cages, bathroom facilities spot cleaning as needed. 
  • Providing enrichment and comfort to boarding pets through, walking, feeding, playtimes, baths, and maintaining the cleanliness of the hospital and boarding areas. 
  • Assisting technicians with patients during pre-op, surgery, and post op. 
  • Stock treatment room with supplies, maintaining a sterile environment for surgery.
  • Utilizing computer information systems to record patient history, update and maintain medical records.
  • Must be comfortable and confident handling cats and dogs of all sizes.

Experience & Skills

  • Kennel technician or animal care experience required
  • Comfortable handling animals of all sizes and temperaments
  • Able to administer oral and topical medications
  • Strong attention to detail and observation skills
  • Willing and able to perform cleaning and sanitation tasks
  • Ability to stand for long periods and walk dogs frequently
  • Basic computer skills for electronic record keeping
  • Team‑oriented mindset and positive, dependable work ethic

Why Fairview Veterinary Hospital? 

  • Spend your days surrounded by animals in a supportive, compassionate environment where your care truly matters.
  • Support a team that values compassion, teamwork, and reliability
  • Work hands-on with animals of every size and personality—you'll be their trusted friend and caretaker.
  • Opportunity to grow within a respected veterinary organization

You’ll Grow with Us

Here, you can grow your career as best fits you through access to comprehensive learning and skillset programs. You can build your skills and earn credentials through:  

  • Our vast, diverse, and free library of continuing education courses - ThriveU  
  • Live, virtual interactive workshops to develop valuable leadership skills   
  • A program designed to teach you the fundamentals of running a pet hospital  

And, with so many locations nationwide, you can find and move into any specialty, hospital type, or environment. Join us and provide your best care at a clinic that is deeply rooted within its community and bolstered by the resources of Thrive Pet Healthcare.  

Benefits – Our Care in Action

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your emotional, physical, professional, and financial wellbeing, including:

  • 401(k) with employer match
  • Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
  • Mental health support through Lyra Health
  • Paid parental leave
  • Purr-ental leave for new pet adoptions
  • Backup childcare and elder care support
  • FREE CE courses
  • Pet care discounts and perks
  • Student loan support tools