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Kennel Associate Jobs in Naples, FL (NOW HIRING)

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Kennel Associate information

See Naples, FL salary details

$7

$13

$17

How much do kennel associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel associate in Naples, FL is $13.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.30 and $14.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a kennel associate?

Kennel Associates are animal care professionals responsible for the daily care and well-being of animals in kennels, veterinary clinics, animal shelters, or boarding facilities. Their duties include feeding, cleaning enclosures, exercising animals, and monitoring their health and behavior. Kennel Associates also assist with basic grooming, record keeping, and sometimes help veterinarians or technicians during treatments. They play a vital role in ensuring animals are safe, comfortable, and healthy during their stay.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a kennel associate?

To thrive as a Kennel Associate, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with animal handling equipment, cleaning supplies, and sometimes pet care management software is commonly required. Attention to detail, patience, and strong communication with both pets and their owners are valuable soft skills. These abilities ensure animal safety, cleanliness, and a positive experience for both pets and clients in a kennel environment.

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

Kennel Associates often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with varying temperaments, maintaining cleanliness in a high-traffic environment, and handling emergency situations like sudden illness or injuries. Effective time management, strong communication with team members, and adhering to established safety protocols are key to overcoming these challenges. Regular training and a supportive team environment also help ensure both the animals' well-being and a positive workplace experience for associates.

What is the difference between Kennel Associate vs Pet Care Technician?

AspectKennel AssociatePet Care Technician
CertificationsNone required or basic animal handlingBasic animal care, possibly pet first aid
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, pet boarding facilitiesVeterinary clinics, animal hospitals
Job DutiesCleaning, feeding, supervising animals in kennelsAdministering medications, assisting vets, monitoring health

While both roles involve caring for animals, Kennel Associates primarily focus on cleaning, feeding, and supervising animals in kennels or shelters. Pet Care Technicians often work in veterinary settings, providing more advanced care like administering medications and assisting veterinarians. The roles share some basic animal handling skills but differ in complexity and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in Naples, FL?

The most popular types of Kennel jobs in Naples, FL are:

What cities near Naples, FL are hiring for Kennel Associate jobs?

Cities near Naples, FL with the most Kennel Associate job openings:

Kennel Associate jobs near you

Animal Care/Senior Animal Care Associates

Patty Baker Humane Society Naples

Naples, FL • On-site

$17/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

As an Animal Care Associate, you will play a pivotal role in ensuring our shelter pets are free from stress, fear, and anxiety, while providing a safe and clean environment for them. This position isn't for everyone. It can be loud, smelly, and sometimes stressful. But if making a significant difference in the lives of shelter pets and their future loving families is something you're passionate about, this might be the most fulfilling job you've ever had!
To get a better idea of the morning Animal Care routine, please watch this video!
The Animal Care team focuses on cleaning, feeding, and providing enrichment for all shelter pets on their way to finding their loving homes. Mornings begin with routine wellness checks and participation in playgroups for dogs and group socialization sessions for cats to ensure all animals receive critical socialization and exercise. Throughout the day, you'll transport animals for medical procedures, monitor their health and behavior, and provide the compassionate care that helps them become adoption-ready.
Afternoons are spent spot-cleaning, adding enrichment activities, providing additional socialization time in communal cat rooms and with individual dogs and cats, and assisting other shelter areas depending on daily needs. An ideal candidate for this position loves to flex between team projects and independent work, thrives in a hands-on learning environment, and has a passion for helping people and pets.
Schedule:
Full time, Five days per week, 8am - 5pm, 7am - 4pm, or 9am - 6pm. Candidates must be willing to work all shift types, weekends and holidays.
QUALIFICATIONS
Depending on your experience and qualifications, candidates may be considered for either our Animal Care Team Lead or Senior Animal Care Associate position.
Required:
  • Enthusiasm for the mission of Patty Baker Humane Society Naples and commitment to animal welfare
  • Must be 18 years or older
  • This role requires dedication, compassion, and a strong work ethic.
  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
  • Comfortable interacting with and handling both dogs and cats of varying temperaments
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
  • Reliable transportation
  • Reliable attendance with minimal unscheduled absences
  • Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States. We are an equal opportunity employer.

Preferred:
  • 3-6 months of related experience in animal care (shelter, veterinary clinic, kennel, or rescue)
  • Knowledge of dog and cat behavior and body language
  • Experience with dog playgroups or cat group socialization
  • Previous volunteer experience in animal welfare

What We Offer:
  • Pay starts at $17/hr. Paid weekly.
  • Senior Associate pay starts at $18/hr
  • Paid time off and Holiday Pay
  • Medical, dental, vision insurance
  • Paid parental leave
  • Retirement plan available, matching funds after 1 year
  • Significant discounts on veterinary services
  • Employee pet adoption benefits

Application Instructions:
  • Apply online at https://pbhsnaples.org/careers
  • All communication with candidates will be over email and/or text - check your spam folder!
  • If you have technical issues or questions, please email hr@pbhsnaples.org
  • No phone calls or walk-ins please

Apply