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Kennel Help Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Maintaining a clean and safe kennel environment * Administering medication to dogs as directed by their owners * Providing lots of love and attention to our furry guests * Helping to manage daily ...

Maintaining a clean and safe kennel environment * Administering medication to dogs as directed by their owners * Providing lots of love and attention to our furry guests * Helping to manage daily ...

Maintaining a clean and safe kennel environment * Administering medication to dogs as directed by their owners * Providing lots of love and attention to our furry guests * Helping to manage daily ...

Veterinary Assistant

Annandale, VA ยท On-site

$19 - $24/hr

They will help ensure the safety of the pets during their stay with us both in-room and in the ... Kennel Maintenance: cleaning kennels/runs/crates, washing/drying food and water dishes, washing ...

Veterinary Assistant

Fairfax, VA ยท On-site

$18/hr

They will help ensure the safety of the pets during their stay with us both in-room and in the ... Kennel Maintenance: cleaning kennels/runs/crates, washing/drying food and water dishes, washing ...

Showing results 21-40

Kennel Help information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$13

$18

How much do kennel help jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel help in Virginia is $13.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.68 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is kennel help?

Kennel help, also known as kennel assistants or kennel attendants, are individuals who care for animals in boarding kennels, veterinary clinics, or animal shelters. Their main duties include feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring the health of animals such as dogs and cats. Kennel help also assist with basic grooming, cleaning cages and facilities, and sometimes interacting with pet owners. This role is essential for maintaining a safe, clean, and comfortable environment for animals while they are away from their homes.

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

To thrive as a Kennel Help, you need basic animal care knowledge, attention to cleanliness, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning supplies, animal handling equipment, and sometimes pet management software is beneficial. Dependability, patience, and strong communication skills help build trust with both animals and coworkers. These skills are crucial for ensuring animal well-being, maintaining a safe environment, and supporting effective team operations in a kennel setting.

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

Kennel help staff often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with different temperaments, maintaining cleanliness in a fast-paced environment, and communicating effectively with both the team and pet owners. Staying organized and adhering strictly to cleaning and feeding schedules helps ensure animal wellbeing and a sanitary environment. Building strong teamwork skills and developing patience are key to handling unpredictable situations, such as anxious or aggressive animals. Regular training and clear protocols can make daily tasks more manageable and rewarding.

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

AspectKennel HelpPet Care Assistant
CertificationsNone required, basic animal handling skillsOften requires basic pet first aid or animal care certifications
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, boarding facilitiesVeterinary clinics, pet stores, grooming salons
Job DutiesCleaning kennels, feeding animals, basic careAssisting veterinarians, feeding, bathing, and monitoring pets

While both roles involve caring for animals, Kennel Help primarily focuses on cleaning and basic care in kennel environments, whereas Pet Care Assistants often work in veterinary or retail settings, providing more comprehensive pet care and support services.

How to get a job in a kennel?

To get a job as kennel help, applicants should have a love for animals, basic knowledge of pet care, and physical stamina. Relevant experience or certifications in animal handling or pet first aid can improve chances, and applying directly to kennels or animal shelters with a resume highlighting these skills is recommended.

Is being a kennel help worth it?

Kennel help involves cleaning, feeding, and caring for animals in a shelter or facility, often requiring physical stamina and attention to hygiene. The job can be rewarding for animal lovers but typically offers low pay and limited advancement opportunities. It is suitable for those seeking entry-level work with flexible hours and a focus on animal care.

What education do you need to be a kennel help?

Kennel help positions typically do not require formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent. Employers often look for basic skills such as the ability to handle animals, good communication, and physical stamina; some roles may require training on specific cleaning or care procedures. Certifications are generally not mandatory but can be beneficial for specialized tasks or advancement.
Infographic showing various Kennel Help job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $28,455 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Receptionist / Front Desk Support

The Pet Resort at Greensprings

Williamsburg, VA โ€ข On-site

$15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Seeking a friendly, organized, and customer oriented individual to work at the front desk of a busy kennel. Tasks to include: answering phone calls, booking boarding/daycare dates, interacting with the customers and their pets; calling veterinarian offices to confirm vaccinations, providing information on additional services (dog walking, bathing, daycare, etc.).
Front desk support is highly interactive with dogs and cats, including helping customers drop off and pick up. Light housekeeping is also expected (maintain the lobby, help with laundry, etc.). Support with doggy daycare as needed.
Full time 4 days per week with occasional Saturday or Part Time mornings/ afternoon shift with support in the back kennel.
  • Competitive Salary (starting at $15)
  • Flexible scheduling for work/ life balance
  • Benefits for FT include health care, retirements, PTO, & personal days

We have a great supportive team and are looking to add to our growing needs. If you love working with animals and are customer oriented- this job is for you!
Requirements
  • Responsible, friendly and outgoing
  • Able to multi-task and be highly organized
  • Prioritize customer needs
  • Able to use computer software and payment system
  • Able to perform manual labor tasks such as but not limited to sweeping, mopping, and general cleaning
  • Work with many different types of dogs and cats
  • Able to work weekends and holidays