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Job Description-Canine Care Assistant/Enrichment Specialist

For Baxter’s Buds LLC dba Central Bark Rochester

Job Title: Canine Care Assistant / Enrichment Specialist

Reports To: Store Manager(s)

Summary:

The Canine Care Assistant is responsible for the care and supervision of dog play groups, ensuring a safe and enriching environment for all dogs. This role requires strong teamwork, attention to detail, and a passion for positive reinforcement training methods. The position involves physical activity, cleaning duties, and direct interaction with dogs and their owners. Employees are expected to work weekends and holidays, in all weather conditions, as part of a year-round operation.

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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Supervise and engage with dog playgroups, ensuring safe interactions and positive socialization.
• Administer food, medications, and other necessary care for dogs, following specific instructions.
• Perform cleaning duties, including picking up waste, mopping, disinfecting surfaces, doing laundry, and washing dishes.
• Maintain an organized and sanitary environment in play areas, kennels, and common spaces.
• Transport dogs to and from owners and ensure a smooth check-in and check-out process.
• Observe and document behavior, noting any changes, incidents, or concerns to be reported to management.
• Assist with enrichment services, including training exercises, grooming tasks (bathing, nail trims), and one-on-one interaction sessions.
• Follow all company policies and safety guidelines to ensure a secure environment for both dogs and staff.
• Support team members and contribute to a collaborative and efficient workplace.
• Monitor and assess dog behavior, stepping in when necessary to redirect play or prevent conflicts.
• Uphold positive reinforcement techniques and ensure that all interactions align with fear-free training principles.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Passion for working with dogs and
• Ability to learn dog behavior and handling techniques through our training.
• Ability to lift at least 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and work in varying weather conditions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to follow care instructions accurately.
• Team-oriented attitude with a willingness to collaborate and support co-workers.
• Effective communication skills for reporting behavioral observations and providing updates to management.
• Ability to problem-solve and make quick decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable with cleaning tasks, including waste disposal, kennel sanitation, and laundry duties.
• Previous experience with dogs (such as pet ownership, animal care, training, or veterinary assistance) is a plus but not required.
• Willingness to undergo on-the-job training and complete minimum training requirements.
• Reliable Transportation.

Work Schedule & Environment:

• Shifts may include weekends, holidays, and early mornings/late evenings.
• Work is performed indoors and outdoors, requiring physical stamina and endurance.
• Frequent bending, lifting, walking, and handling of dogs of all sizes and temperaments.

Core Competencies:

• Win-Win Mentality – Works toward solutions that benefit both the dogs and the team.
• Accountability & Ownership – Takes full responsibility for assigned duties and follows through on commitments.
• Collaboration & Teamwork – Works effectively with co-workers and communicates respectfully.
• Emotional Intelligence – Recognizes and responds to the needs and behaviors of dogs and people.
• Problem-Solving & Quick Thinking – Makes informed decisions when handling unexpected situations.
• Attention to Detail – Ensures feeding, medication, cleaning, and behavioral observations are completed properly.
• Reliability & Dependability – Arrives on time, follows schedules, and completes tasks without supervision.
• Teachable & Strong Desire to Learn – Open to feedback and actively seeks knowledge and skill development.
• Customer Service – Provides friendly and professional service to dog owners.
• Positive Reinforcement Training – Supports a fear-free, reward-based training approach.
• Comfort with Cleaning & Physical Tasks – Willingness to handle waste, clean up messes, and maintain hygiene standards.

Benefits:

• Opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Hands-on experience in a structured, positive-reinforcement-based dog care environment.
• Weekly Pay
• IRA With Employer Match
• Employee discounts and additional benefits based on role and employment status.
• A supportive and team-focused work environment.

This job description outlines the general nature and key responsibilities of the Canine Care Assistant position. Duties and responsibilities may change as needed to support the needs of the facility.

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