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Kennel Helper Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Associated Veterinary Partners

Kennel Assistant

Owosso, MI · On-site

$13.73 - $14.25/hr

Kennel Assistant (full-time) Pinecrest Animal Hospital - Owosso, MI About Us Pinecrest Animal ... Help veterinary and technician staff with safe animal handling * Report any signs of illness ...

Associated Veterinary Partners

Kennel Assistant

Owosso, MI · On-site

$13.73 - $14.25/hr

Kennel Assistant (full-time) Pinecrest Animal Hospital - Owosso, MI About Us Pinecrest Animal ... Help veterinary and technician staff with safe animal handling * Report any signs of illness ...

Hounds Town Wixom

Kennel Attendant

Wixom, MI · On-site

$12/hr

Fully interactive daycare, boarding, and grooming pet care facility is looking for PT kennel assistant to care for and help manage dogs. Must be at least 18 y/o, have your own transportation, and be ...

Hounds Town Wixom

Kennel Attendant

Wixom, MI · On-site

$12/hr

Fully interactive daycare, boarding, and grooming pet care facility is looking for PT kennel assistant to care for and help manage dogs. Must be at least 18 y/o, have your own transportation, and be ...

Kim's K-9

Kennel Tech

Grand Rapids, MI

$15.50/hr

As a Kennel Technician, you'll have the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of the ... a heart to help dogs and to help other people. Kim's K-9 has been supporting the dog-loving ...

Allegan County

Animal Caretaker - Part-time

Allegan, MI · On-site

$17.83/hr

The Animal Caretaker will perform kennel cleaning, walking, feeding, and provide mental and ... Passion for helping and treating animals * Ability to interact with animals in a calm, non ...

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Kennel Helper information

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$14

How much do kennel helper jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for kennel helper in Michigan is $10.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $6.97 and $12.21 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by a kennel helper and how can they be managed?

Kennel Helpers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple animals with different temperaments, maintaining strict hygiene standards, and handling physically demanding tasks like cleaning and lifting. Effective time management and strong attention to detail are essential to ensure all animals receive proper care and that facilities remain clean and safe. Building good communication with team members and supervisors can also help resolve issues quickly and maintain a positive work environment.

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

AspectKennel HelperPet Care Assistant
Required CredentialsNone typically required, on-the-job training commonSome roles may prefer basic pet care certifications
Work EnvironmentAnimal shelters, kennels, boarding facilitiesPet stores, veterinary clinics, grooming salons
Employer & Industry UsageAnimal care facilities, sheltersPet retail, veterinary practices
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for entry-level animal care rolesRelated to pet support and customer service

In summary, Kennel Helpers primarily work in shelters and kennels focusing on animal care and cleaning, often without formal certifications. Pet Care Assistants may work in pet stores or clinics, sometimes requiring basic pet care knowledge. Both roles involve hands-on animal handling but differ mainly in work environment and employer type.

What is a kennel helper?

Kennel helpers are support staff who assist in the daily care and maintenance of animals housed in kennels, shelters, or boarding facilities. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, exercising, cleaning cages, monitoring animal health, and providing basic grooming. Kennel helpers play a vital role in ensuring animals are comfortable, safe, and well-cared for while staying at the facility. They may also help with record-keeping and interacting with pet owners as needed.

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

To thrive as a Kennel Helper, you need basic animal care knowledge, physical stamina, and attention to cleanliness, typically with a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with cleaning supplies, animal handling equipment, and sometimes pet management software is helpful. Compassion, reliability, and strong communication skills are important for building trust with both animals and pet owners. These skills and qualities ensure the well-being of animals, maintain a hygienic environment, and support smooth kennel operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Kennel jobs in Michigan are:
Kennel Helper jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kennel Helper job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $21,672 per year, or $10.4 per hour.

Kennel Assistant

Associated Veterinary Partners

Owosso, MI

$13.73 - $14.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 27 days ago

Job description

Kennel Assistant (full-time)
Pinecrest Animal Hospital - Owosso, MI

About Us

Pinecrest Animal Hospital is a progressive, innovative small animal practice in Owosso, Michigan. Our team is known for delivering high-quality care using advanced diagnostics and treatments-including ultrasound, echocardiography, full in-house lab work, laser therapy, and a wide range of surgical procedures from routine to complex.

Our story began in 1953 with Dr. Jerry Fries, a legendary mixed animal practitioner who served his community with dedication-even making house calls by plane and motorcycle! Since then, the hospital has evolved under compassionate, forward-thinking leadership, and today we continue that legacy of excellence under Dr. Pritpal Rangi.

What You'll Be Doing

As a full-time Kennel Assistant, you'll be a vital part of our clinical team. Key responsibilities include:

  • Provide gentle, compassionate care to all animals in our facility
  • Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, and animal areas
  • Walk, feed, and observe pets throughout the day, noting any changes
  • Assist with bathing and light grooming tasks
  • Keep laundry, dishes, and common areas clean and organized
  • Help veterinary and technician staff with safe animal handling
  • Report any signs of illness, stress, or unusual behavior to the medical team
  • Follow all hospital protocols and safety procedures
  • Help restock supplies in exam rooms and treatment areas
  • Alert team members to low inventory of cleaning or animal care supplies
  • Assist with keeping outdoor areas (yards/runs) clean and secure
  • Assist with restraining animals during exams or treatments (under supervision)

Requirements

What We're Looking For
  • Comfortable handling dogs and cats of all sizes and temperaments
  • Previous animal care or kennel experience preferred, but not required. We will train qualified candidates!
  • Veterinary clinic experience is a plus
  • Must be able to safely lift 50 pounds
  • Ability to perform physical tasks like bending, standing, and walking for long periods
  • Skilled at multitasking in a fast-paced environment
  • Eagerness to learn and grow within the field
  • Reliable, punctual, and detail-oriented
  • Team player with a positive attitude and strong work ethic
  • Willing to work weekends, holidays, and rotating shifts as needed
Schedule
  • Full-time (8-10 hour shifts)
  • Monday - Friday
  • Availability on Saturday's required
  • No Sunday Hours

Benefits

Compensation & Benefits
  • Hourly pay: $13.73- $14.25 (based on experience)
  • 401(k) with match
  • Health insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Employee pet care discount
  • Flexible scheduling

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