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Kennel Assistant Jobs in Ridgewood, NJ (NOW HIRING)

kennel assistant

Summit, NJ

$10.50 - $11.50/hr

We are seeking a Kennel Assistant to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall care and well-being of the animals at our facility. Responsibilities: * Handle general care tasks such as ...

kennel assistant

Summit, NJ · On-site

$10.50 - $11.50/hr

We are seeking a Kennel Assistant to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall care and well-being of the animals at our facility. Responsibilities: * Handle general care tasks such as ...

Veterinary Assistant

Union, NJ · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Perform other duties as assigned by your team leaders You Have: * 1+ year of experience working as a veterinary assistant or kennel assistant * A working knowledge of veterinary terminology

Kennel Attendant

Montville, NJ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

We are seeking a Kennel Attendant to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall care ... Handle general care tasks such as feeding and cleaning * Assist in taking out the dogs for bathroom ...

Kennel Attendant

Montville, NJ · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

We are seeking a Kennel Attendant to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall care ... Handle general care tasks such as feeding and cleaning * Assist in taking out the dogs for bathroom ...

Kennel Attendant

Rockaway, NJ · On-site

$15.92 - $16/hr

Kennel Technician (Full-Time & Part-Time Opportunities Available) Location: Camp Bow Wow Rockaway - Rockaway, New Jersey Camp Bow Wow Rockaway is seeking a dedicated and energetic Kennel Technician ...

Kennel Attendant

Morristown, NJ · On-site

$15.92 - $16/hr

Kennel Attendant (Full-Time & Part-Time Positions Available). Location: Camp Bow Wow Morris - Morristown, New Jersey. Camp Bow Wow Morristown is on the lookout for dedicated and enthusiastic Camp ...

Perform other duties as assigned by your team leaders You Have: * 1+ year of experience working as a veterinary assistant or kennel assistant * A working knowledge of veterinary terminology

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Kennel Assistant information

See Ridgewood, NJ salary details

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$12

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How much do kennel assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel assistant in Ridgewood, NJ is $12.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.71 and $14.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kennel assistant?

Kennel assistants are animal care workers responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals, usually in boarding kennels, veterinary clinics, or animal shelters. Their duties include feeding, cleaning cages, exercising the animals, and monitoring their health and behavior. Kennel assistants also help with basic grooming and may assist veterinarians or other staff with medical treatments. They play a vital role in maintaining a clean and safe environment for animals and ensuring their comfort while they are away from their owners.

What does a kennel assistant do?

A kennel assistant performs a number of duties at a kennel, veterinary office, animal care shelter, or rescue facility. In this career, your responsibilities are to care for the animals at the facility and provide support to other, more senior animal care professionals, such as vet techs or veterinarians. You also feed the animals, take them for walks or exercise, and ensure that each cage is clean. More senior kennel assistants also help vet professionals with administering medication and vaccinations or perform those functions under supervision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kennel assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kennel Assistant, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and often a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum qualification. Familiarity with cleaning protocols, animal handling equipment, and sometimes pet management software is useful. Dependability, attention to detail, and compassion for animals are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are important to ensure the well-being of animals, maintain a clean and safe environment, and support effective kennel operations.

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

Kennel assistants often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with different temperaments, maintaining strict cleanliness standards, and working in a fast-paced environment. Effective time management and strong attention to detail help ensure all animals receive proper care and that the facility remains sanitary. Building good communication with team members and supervisors also makes it easier to handle emergencies or behavioral issues. Many facilities provide training on safety protocols and animal handling, so staying proactive in learning and asking questions can make the role more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Kennel Assistant vs Pet Care Attendant?

AspectKennel AssistantPet Care Attendant
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, on-the-job trainingHigh school diploma, basic pet care knowledge
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, veterinary clinicsPet stores, grooming salons, kennels
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, sheltersPet retail, grooming, boarding facilities
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Kennel Assistants and Pet Care Attendants work with animals in similar environments, Kennel Assistants typically focus on cleaning, feeding, and caring for animals in shelters or kennels. Pet Care Attendants may have broader responsibilities, including customer service and pet grooming. The roles often overlap, but Kennel Assistants usually work more directly with animal care tasks in shelter settings.

Is being a kennel assistant worth it?

A kennel assistant performs tasks such as cleaning animal enclosures, feeding pets, and providing basic care, often in a fast-paced environment. The role can offer valuable experience for those interested in animal care and may lead to advancement in the veterinary or pet care fields, but it typically involves physical labor and low to moderate pay. Whether it is worth it depends on individual career goals and interest in working with animals.

What education do you need to be a kennel assistant?

Kennel assistants typically do not need formal higher education but should have a high school diploma or equivalent. Basic knowledge of animal care, good communication skills, and the ability to handle physical tasks are important; some employers may provide on-the-job training or prefer candidates with prior experience working with animals.

What job categories do people searching Kennel Assistant jobs in Ridgewood, NJ look for?

The top searched job categories for Kennel Assistant jobs in Ridgewood, NJ are:

What cities near Ridgewood, NJ are hiring for Kennel Assistant jobs?

Cities near Ridgewood, NJ with the most Kennel Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Kennel Assistant job openings in Ridgewood, NJ as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $26,006 per year, or $12.5 per hour.

kennel assistant

VipuppySpa

Summit, NJ

$10.50 - $11.50/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

We are seeking a Kennel Assistant to join our team! You will be responsible for the overall care and well-being of the animals at our facility.

Responsibilities:

  • Handle general care tasks such as feeding ,cleaning ,well being of the animals
  • Keep records of animal feedings, treatments, and other updates
  • Engage in play activities and exercise with the animals
  • Maintain a clean and healthy environment

Qualifications:

  • Previous experience in animal care or other related fields
  • Passion to help and treat animals
  • Ability to interact with animals in a calm, non-threatening manner
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment