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Service Dog Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Dog Bather. Extensive ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services, has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our spa services as a Groomer. We have ...

The ideal candidate has experience grooming dogs of all breeds and sizes, maintains a calm demeanor with animals and provides excellent customer service to pet owners. Key Responsibilities: * Bathe ...

Dogtopia, the industry leader in dog daycare, boarding, and spa services has an immediate opening for an energetic and organized individual to be the star of our playroom as a Dog Bather. Extensive ...

Company Description Run My Dog Do you love animals? Do you prefer to work independently? Enjoy the ... Excellent customer service and communication skills * Self-motivated with great time management

Dog Sitter

Washington, DC · On-site

$100 - $1.0K/mo

You set your availability and service area-we match you with clients. What You'll Do * Provide in-home dog care (walks, drop-ins, overnights, or live-in house sitting - based on your availability)

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

We celebrate the journey of pet parenthood through district experiences, products, and services ... In addition to dog training, you'll also be actively engaging with guests to provide 360-degree ...

Dog Bather

Rockville, MD · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Crazy about Canines? We're Looking for Top Dogs Interested in Career Growth. Want a job you'll love ... You will work closely with the Office Manager and Pet Care Team to complete bathing services ...

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Service Dog information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$14

$19

How much do service dog jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for service dog in Reston, VA is $14.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.98 and $16.25 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by service dog trainers and handlers in maintaining a service dog's performance in real-world environments?

Service dog trainers and handlers often encounter challenges such as ensuring the dog remains focused and responsive in distracting public settings, maintaining consistent training standards, and addressing any behavioral issues that may arise over time. Additionally, adapting the dog's training to the specific needs of the handler and keeping up with regular retraining sessions are crucial for long-term success. Collaboration with veterinary professionals and ongoing communication with the handler are also essential to support the dog's health and performance.

What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?

The 7 7 7 rule for dogs is a guideline suggesting that puppies should be fed seven times a day until they are three months old, then transitioned to three meals a day until six months, and finally to two meals a day as adults. For service dogs, consistent training, socialization, and proper nutrition are essential for their development and performance. This rule helps ensure proper growth and health during different stages of a service dog's life.

What is the most common service dog job?

The most common service dog job is assisting individuals with mobility impairments by retrieving objects, opening doors, or providing stability. These dogs are trained to perform specific tasks that help their handlers maintain independence and safety in daily activities.

Does lupus qualify for a service dog?

Service dogs can be trained to assist individuals with lupus if the condition significantly impairs daily functioning, such as managing symptoms or alerting to medical issues. The qualification depends on the individual's specific needs and a healthcare professional's documentation; the dog must be trained to perform tasks related to the disability. Certification and training are essential for the dog to be recognized as a service animal under the law.

What is the difference between Service Dog vs Therapy Dog?

AspectService DogTherapy Dog
Required credentials/certificationsTraining certification, often ADA-compliantTraining for social interaction, certification varies
Work environmentAssists individuals with disabilities in public and private settingsProvides comfort and support in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes
Employer and industry usageIndividuals with disabilities, healthcare, public spacesHospitals, schools, therapy programs

Service Dogs are trained to assist individuals with disabilities and are protected by law to accompany their owners in public. Therapy Dogs are trained to provide emotional support and comfort in therapeutic settings. While both roles involve specialized training, Service Dogs have specific legal rights and certifications, whereas Therapy Dogs focus on emotional well-being in controlled environments.

What are service dogs?

Service dogs are specially trained canines that assist individuals with disabilities by performing specific tasks to help them navigate daily life. These tasks may include guiding people who are visually impaired, alerting individuals with hearing loss, pulling a wheelchair, or assisting with medical alerts such as seizures or low blood sugar. Service dogs are protected under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which allows them to accompany their handlers in most public places. They undergo extensive training to ensure good behavior and reliability. Service dogs are distinct from emotional support animals and therapy dogs due to their specialized training and legal rights.

What jobs can you bring your service dog to?

Service dogs are allowed in most workplaces, including offices, retail stores, restaurants, and public transportation, as they assist individuals with disabilities. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations, and service dogs must be well-trained to work in various environments. However, some restrictions may apply in certain settings for health or safety reasons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Service Dog handler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Service Dog handler, you need a thorough understanding of animal behavior, basic veterinary care, and specialized training in service dog protocols, typically supported by certifications from recognized organizations. Familiarity with training tools, positive reinforcement techniques, and relevant legal requirements such as the Americans with Disabilities Act is essential. Patience, consistency, and strong communication skills help build a reliable partnership and ensure effective task performance. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the service dog is well-prepared to support individuals with disabilities and maintain public safety.
What are popular job titles related to Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA? For Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Service Dog jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Service Dog jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Service Dog job openings:
Infographic showing various Service Dog job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 40% Full Time, 56% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,702 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
Facility Dog Handler - Full Time - 1st Shift

Facility Dog Handler - Full Time - 1st Shift

Dayton Children's Hospital

Naval Anacost Annex, DC

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Dayton Children's Hospital rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

521st of 1,002 rated hospitals


Job description

Facility:Dayton Children's - Main CampusDepartment:Child Life ServicesSchedule:Full timeHours:40Job Details:Under the direct supervision of the Child Life Director, the secondary facility dog handler will support the primary handler in utilizing the facility dog as a tool to provide goal oriented therapeutic interventions for patients undergoing treatment at Dayton Children's. The handler will provide therapeutic interventions that will address the emotional, behavioral, receptive/expressive, cognitive, and physical needs of patients. On behalf of Dayton Children's, the secondary handler will provide backup coverage and support to the primary handler in the 24/7 control and care of the facility dog with an appropriate home environment, feeding/weight management, veterinary care, grooming/cleanliness, and ongoing teaching/training. The secondary facility dog handler will actively collaborate with members of the patient's interdisciplinary care team and will maintain appropriate documentation of services.

Department Specific Job Details:

Education

High School diploma required

Associates Degree in a child development related field preferred

certified child life specialist, licensed with CSWMFT (Ohio), or certified recreation therapist, or occupational therapy assistant, or early childhood educator preferred

Certifications

CPR required

Certified child life specialist preferred

CSWMFT preferred

Certified recreation therapist preferred

Occupational therapy assistant preferred

Early Childhood Educator preferred

Experience

3+ years working in a clinical pediatric healthcare role.

Skills/Competencies/Responsibilities

Will need to complete proper onsite training with service dog agency


What Dayton Children's Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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