Live In Kennel information
See California salary details
$6.59 - $10.83
14% of jobs
$12.45 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$10.83 - $15.06
29% of jobs
The median wage is $16.38 / hr.
$15.06 - $19.30
22% of jobs
$22.57 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$19.30 - $23.54
13% of jobs
$23.54 - $27.78
9% of jobs
$27.78 - $32.01
5% of jobs
$32.01 - $36.25
3% of jobs
$36.25 - $40.49
2% of jobs
$40.49 - $44.72
1% of jobs
$44.72 - $48.96
1% of jobs
$48.96 - $53.20
0% of jobs
How much do live in kennel jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for live in kennel in California is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.24 and $24.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
A Live In Kennel worker is someone who resides on-site at a kennel facility to care for animals—typically dogs and sometimes cats—around the clock. Their duties often include feeding, cleaning, exercising, and monitoring the health and well-being of the animals. By living on the premises, they provide consistent supervision and are available to respond quickly to emergencies or special needs. This role is essential for kennels that need 24/7 care for their animals, especially during holidays or when owners are away.
To thrive as a Live-In Kennel Assistant, you need practical experience or training in animal care, basic first aid for animals, and a genuine passion for working with dogs and other pets. Familiarity with kennel management software, cleaning equipment, and feeding protocols is typically expected. Strong communication, reliability, and the ability to work independently are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of animals in your care, as well as to maintain smooth daily operations.
Live In Kennel staff often face challenges such as managing a high volume of animals with varying needs, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene, and handling emergency situations like sudden animal illnesses. Building strong time management skills and staying organized are essential for balancing daily care, feeding, cleaning, and exercise routines. Working closely with other staff members and maintaining open communication also helps ensure the well-being of the animals and smooth operation of the kennel. Most facilities provide on-the-job training and support to help staff handle these challenges effectively.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kennel jobs in California?
The most popular types of Kennel jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Live In Kennel jobs?
Cities in California with the most Live In Kennel job openings:
