Animal Shelter Attendant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of animal care, the importance of Animal Shelter Attendants cannot be overstated.

As society grows more compassionate toward animal welfare, the demand for dedicated individuals who can care, nurture, and protect our furry friends is more significant than ever.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an Animal Shelter Attendant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply interested in the daily duties of an Animal Shelter Attendant,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Animal Shelter Attendant job description template, created for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Animal Shelter Attendant Duties and Responsibilities

Animal Shelter Attendants are responsible for the day-to-day care of animals that reside in a shelter.

They ensure the animals are healthy, comfortable, and well looked after while they wait to be adopted.

The duties and responsibilities of an Animal Shelter Attendant include:

• Feeding and watering animals according to schedules
• Cleaning and disinfecting cages, kennels, and yards
• Exercising animals and providing them with companionship
• Monitoring the animals’ health, noting signs of illness or distress, and reporting these to a veterinarian
• Administering medication to animals under the direction of a veterinarian
• Bathing and grooming animals
• Helping with animal adoption procedures
• Providing potential adopters with information about specific animals
• Assisting with the transportation of animals to and from the vet or to their new homes
• Maintaining records of animal care, condition, and progress
• Stocking supplies and ensuring the shelter is well-maintained and organized

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a caring and dedicated Animal Shelter Attendant to join our team.

The responsibilities of the role include taking care of animals’ basic needs, facilitating adoptions, maintaining shelter cleanliness, and assisting in the medical care of the animals.

Our ideal candidate is an animal lover with a deep passion for their well-being, has excellent interpersonal skills, and can handle physical and emotional tasks.

Ultimately, the role of the Animal Shelter Attendant is to ensure the welfare of the animals in the shelter and assist in finding them a loving home.

 

Responsibilities

• Feed, groom and exercise animals
• Assist in the process of animal adoption
• Clean and sanitize animal enclosures
• Monitor animal behavior and report any changes
• Assist in animal medical care, under the supervision of a Veterinarian
• Provide customer service to the public and answer inquiries about the animals
• Maintain accurate records of animals
• Participate in community outreach programs promoting the shelter

 

Qualifications

• Experience working with animals is preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Physical ability to handle, lift and restrain animals
• Willingness to learn and follow shelter procedures
• Ability to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as required
• Passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to the mission of the animal shelter

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discounts
• Opportunities for career advancement

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Animal Shelter Attendant
• Work Environment: This job operates in an animal shelter setting. This role routinely involves exposure to animals, cleaning chemicals, and requires protective clothing.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Shelter Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $22,000 minimum to $35,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Animal Shelter Attendant Do?

Animal Shelter Attendants are typically employed by animal welfare organizations, city and county animal shelters, and rescue groups.

They play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of these establishments.

Their primary duty is to care for the animals that are housed in the shelter.

This includes feeding the animals, cleaning their living areas, providing them with fresh water, and ensuring they are comfortable.

They may also be involved in providing basic grooming for the animals, such as bathing and brushing them.

Animal Shelter Attendants also help to maintain the overall cleanliness and organization of the shelter.

This can involve tasks such as washing dishes, doing laundry, and cleaning up after the animals.

In addition, they are often responsible for administering basic medical care under the direction of a veterinarian.

This can include giving medications, monitoring the health of the animals, and helping with basic medical procedures.

They also interact with potential adopters, showing them the animals and providing information about their personality, needs, and care.

They may also assist in processing adoptions, including completing paperwork and educating new owners about pet care.

Furthermore, Animal Shelter Attendants may participate in rescue operations, helping to bring in stray or abused animals, and might be involved in community outreach programs to promote responsible pet ownership and adoption.

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Qualifications and Skills

An Animal Shelter Attendant should have the skills and qualifications that align with the responsibilities of caring for animals and maintaining the facility, such as:

• Compassion and patience for animals, understanding their needs and behaviors
• Experience in animal care, which may include feeding, grooming, and providing medication
• Strong communication skills to interact with potential adopters, volunteers, and coworkers
• Physical stamina to handle the demands of the job, which may include lifting heavy supplies, standing for long periods, and handling animals of various sizes
• Ability to follow protocols and procedures for maintaining animal health and cleanliness of the facility
• Problem-solving skills to address issues as they arise, from managing animal behavior to coordinating with veterinary services
• Organizational skills to manage records of animals’ medical histories, vaccinations, and adoption information
• Customer service skills to assist potential adopters, answering their questions, and providing information about the animals

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Experience Requirements

Animal Shelter Attendants typically require previous experience with animals, often gained through volunteering or internships at veterinary clinics, zoos, animal shelters, or pet stores.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through volunteering or part-time roles in animal care or handling.

This provides a foundation of knowledge about animal behavior, health issues, and basic care.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often refine their skills and knowledge in entry-level Animal Care Attendant roles, where they gain experience with a wider range of species, medical conditions, and care techniques.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have some supervisory or managerial experience in their background, having been responsible for coordinating volunteers, training new staff, or overseeing shelter operations.

These candidates may be ready for a managerial or lead position in an animal shelter.

Additionally, experience in pet grooming, animal training, or veterinary assistance can be beneficial for candidates seeking to work as an Animal Shelter Attendant.

It’s also a plus if the candidate has experience with specific software used for tracking animal health and adoption records.

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Education and Training Requirements

Animal Shelter Attendants typically have a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification as a minimum requirement.

Though not mandatory, many choose to further their education by obtaining an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in animal science, veterinary technology, biology, or a related field.

This allows them to deepen their understanding of animal behavior, anatomy, and physiology.

Additionally, hands-on experience with animals can be beneficial.

This can be acquired through volunteering at local animal shelters, veterinary clinics, or any other animal care facilities.

While most training is provided on the job, some states and organizations may require Animal Shelter Attendants to be certified.

Certification programs, often offered through community colleges or vocational schools, cover topics such as animal health and welfare, hygiene, and safety protocols.

Some attendants may also be required to have a valid driver’s license to assist with animal rescues or transportation tasks.

Continuing education is important in this field to stay updated on the best practices for animal care and handling, disease control, and to learn about new advancements in animal behavioral studies.

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Salary Expectations

An Animal Shelter Attendant can expect to earn an average salary of $23,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary based on the level of experience, geographical location, and the size of the animal shelter or organization.

 

Animal Shelter Attendant Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Animal Shelter Attendant need?

Animal Shelter Attendants should have strong communication skills to interact with colleagues, volunteers, and the public.

They should have a deep love for animals and an understanding of basic animal behaviors.

They also need to be physically fit to handle larger animals and perform tasks like cleaning, lifting heavy food bags, etc.

Attention to detail is also essential as attendants must observe and report any changes in an animal’s behavior or health.

 

Do Animal Shelter Attendants need a degree?

No, a degree is not typically required for an Animal Shelter Attendant.

However, some shelters might prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent.

Knowledge or experience in animal care can be beneficial.

Some shelters may require attendants to undergo training in animal control or animal care.

 

What should you look for in an Animal Shelter Attendant resume?

When hiring an Animal Shelter Attendant, look for experience with animals, whether it’s through previous work, volunteering at an animal shelter, or pet ownership.

Basic knowledge of animal care and handling, as well as any training in animal control or health, can be a plus.

A clean background check is also important, as the attendant will be responsible for the safety and well-being of the animals.

 

What qualities make a good Animal Shelter Attendant?

A good Animal Shelter Attendant has a passion for animals and their welfare.

They are empathetic, patient, and able to handle stressful situations.

They also need to be physically fit and capable of performing demanding tasks, and should possess excellent interpersonal skills to deal with people from different backgrounds.

Attention to detail is also crucial, as they will need to monitor animals’ health and behavior closely.

 

How physically demanding is the Animal Shelter Attendant job?

The role of an Animal Shelter Attendant can be physically demanding.

It often involves lifting heavy items, cleaning cages, and handling animals of different sizes and temperaments.

The job may also require being on your feet for long periods and working in various weather conditions, as some duties might be outdoors.

Therefore, physical fitness is an important aspect of this role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the diverse and rewarding role of an animal shelter attendant.

Surprise!

It’s not just about taking care of animals.

It’s about crafting a better future for our furry friends, one paw print at a time.

With our comprehensive animal shelter attendant job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on this fulfilling career path.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating meticulously detailed job listings or fine-tuning your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every interaction with an animal is a part of a bigger mission.

Let’s make that future. Together.

How to Become an Animal Shelter Attendant (Complete Guide)

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