Kennel Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of animal care, the role of a kennel manager has never been more crucial.

As the pet industry continues to grow, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can run, maintain, and ensure the safety of our animal care facilities.

But what exactly does a kennel manager do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to find the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes at an animal kennel,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable kennel manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Kennel Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Kennel Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of animal kennels, including the care and wellbeing of animals, staff management, and administrative tasks.

They ensure animals are housed properly, fed, exercised and receive necessary medical attention.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Managing and scheduling staff, including kennel assistants and volunteers
• Overseeing the feeding, exercise, and general care of animals
• Monitoring animal health, maintaining records, and scheduling veterinary appointments as needed
• Ensuring the cleanliness and proper maintenance of kennel facilities
• Coordinating and overseeing the training of animals
• Interacting with clients to address questions, complaints or specific needs regarding their pets
• Ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding animal care
• Ordering and maintaining inventory of kennel supplies
• Implementing policies and procedures to improve operational efficiency and animal welfare
• Assisting in the hiring and training of kennel staff
• Marketing and promoting the kennel to potential clients

 

Kennel Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced and compassionate Kennel Manager to oversee the daily operations of our animal boarding facility.

The role involves supervising staff, ensuring animal welfare, maintaining facilities, and providing excellent customer service.

The Kennel Manager should be knowledgeable about animal behavior and care, and have strong management and customer service skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily operations of the kennel, including feeding, cleaning, and caring for animals.
• Supervise and train kennel staff to ensure high-quality animal care.
• Perform administrative tasks such as scheduling, budgeting, and maintaining records.
• Ensure the facilities are clean, safe, and comply with all relevant regulations.
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints, and ensure excellent customer service.
• Coordinate with veterinarians to provide medical care for animals as needed.
• Implement animal behavior training programs.
• Manage inventory of pet food, cleaning supplies, and other kennel materials.

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Kennel Manager, or a similar role in an animal care facility.
• Knowledge of animal behavior and care, and understanding of the specific needs of different breeds.
• Experience in staff management and training.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to handle physical work, including lifting heavy items and cleaning kennel areas.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Degree in animal science or related field preferred.

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Employee discount on pet products and services
• Opportunities for professional development in the animal care field

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Kennel Manager
• Work Environment: Kennel setting with both indoor and outdoor work. Must be comfortable working with animals of various sizes and temperaments.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Facility Director or Business Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 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 a Kennel Manager Do?

Kennel Managers work in animal boarding establishments and animal shelters, overseeing the day-to-day operations and ensuring the animals are properly cared for.

Their main duty involves managing and supervising staff who are responsible for the feeding, bathing, and exercising of the animals.

They ensure that all animals are treated humanely and are kept in clean and safe environments.

Kennel Managers also work closely with veterinarians to ensure the health of the animals, arranging for medical treatment if necessary.

They also keep records of each animal’s health, behavior, and daily activities.

They often handle customer service related tasks, such as answering client inquiries, handling bookings, and managing any client issues or complaints.

Part of their job role may include marketing and business development tasks, such as promoting the kennel’s services, developing relationships with local pet stores, groomers, and veterinary clinics, and participating in community events or fundraisers.

Moreover, they are responsible for maintaining the kennel’s budget, tracking expenses, and potentially procuring resources like food and medical supplies.

In some cases, Kennel Managers may also have a role in training animals, particularly in establishments where dogs are trained for specific roles or to improve their behavior.

 

Kennel Manager Qualifications and Skills

A qualified kennel manager should have skills and qualifications that align with your job description, including:

• Animal care knowledge and skills to ensure the welfare of all animals in the kennel, including feeding, exercising, and providing medical care or treatment as needed.
• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple animals and their individual needs, coordinate staff schedules, and maintain cleanliness and order within the kennel.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with pet owners, staff members, and external entities such as vets or animal rescue organizations.
• Problem-solving abilities to handle any issues or emergencies that may arise with the animals or within the kennel operations.
• Leadership and team management skills to guide, train, and manage kennel staff efficiently.
• Knowledge of animal behavior and handling techniques to ensure the safety and comfort of the animals.
• Administrative skills for handling tasks such as record keeping, invoicing, and supply management.
• Physical stamina to handle active dogs and heavy lifting tasks such as food bags or kennel equipment.
• A strong passion for animals and a commitment to their wellbeing.

 

Kennel Manager Experience Requirements

Kennel Managers often gain their initial experience by working as an assistant or worker in a kennel, animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or pet store where they learn basic animal care skills.

Individuals looking to become Kennel Managers may also volunteer at animal shelters to gain hands-on experience in taking care of animals.

Some may have completed relevant coursework or a degree in animal sciences or veterinary technology.

Typically, 2 to 3 years of experience in a kennel environment is expected for a Kennel Manager role.

The candidates should have prior experience in tasks such as feeding and grooming animals, managing veterinary care, maintaining cleanliness, and supervising staff.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience have usually advanced their skills in managing animal care, facility maintenance, and staff leadership.

They may have also gained experience in administrative duties such as scheduling, budgeting, and customer service.

This makes them suitable candidates for larger or more complex kennel operations, or even roles in kennel ownership.

 

Kennel Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Kennel Manager typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, although a degree in animal science, veterinary technology, or a related field can be advantageous.

They are expected to have substantial experience in animal care, with an emphasis on the type of animals their facility houses, such as dogs, cats, or a variety of domestic pets.

Comprehensive on-the-job training is typically provided to kennel managers, where they learn the specifics of animal feeding, grooming, health monitoring, and emergency care.

Many kennel managers choose to enhance their credentials by obtaining a professional certification, such as the Certified Kennel Operator (CKO) designation offered by the Pet Care Services Association.

In addition, kennel managers must possess a deep understanding of animal behavior and an ability to handle animals with different temperaments.

Familiarity with basic veterinary medicine and animal first aid is also essential.

Kennel Managers should also have experience in administrative duties, as they may be responsible for scheduling, inventory management, customer service, and staff supervision.

Voluntary or part-time work at an animal shelter, vet clinic, or similar environment can be beneficial for gaining practical experience in this field.

Ongoing professional development and learning about new animal care techniques or advancements in animal health are also important aspects of a Kennel Manager’s role.

 

Kennel Manager Salary Expectations

A Kennel Manager earns an average salary of $36,330 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on the manager’s experience, the size and location of the kennel, and the number of animals housed.

 

Kennel Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Kennel Manager need?

A Kennel Manager should have strong administrative and leadership skills to manage the team and ensure smooth operations.

They should also have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with the pet owners and address their concerns.

Additionally, they must have a deep understanding of animal behavior and the ability to handle pets in a calm and reassuring manner.

 

Do Kennel Managers need a specific degree or certification?

While a specific degree isn’t necessary for a Kennel Manager, a background in animal science, veterinary technology, or related fields can be beneficial.

Some Kennel Managers may have certifications from professional organizations like the Professional Animal Care Certification Council.

However, practical experience in animal care, especially in a kennel setting, is usually the most important qualification.

 

What should you look for in a Kennel Manager’s resume?

Look for a combination of practical experience and education related to animal care.

Previous work in a kennel or animal shelter, veterinary clinic, or related setting is crucial.

Any certifications or training in animal care, behavior, or management should also be considered.

Strong administrative and leadership experience can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Kennel Manager?

A good Kennel Manager is compassionate and caring towards animals, with a deep understanding of animal behavior and needs.

They should also be organized, responsible, and able to handle multiple tasks efficiently.

Leadership skills are essential, as they will be managing a team.

Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important for interacting with pet owners and addressing their concerns.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Kennel Manager?

Hiring a Kennel Manager can be challenging as it requires a unique combination of animal care knowledge, practical experience, and managerial skills.

It’s important to find a candidate who not only loves working with animals but also has the necessary skills to efficiently manage the kennel’s operations and team.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the lid on what it truly means to be a kennel manager.

Guess what?

It’s not just about looking after dogs.

It’s about creating a nurturing environment for man’s best friend, one wagging tail at a time.

With our reliable kennel manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to leap into action.

But why stop there?

Dig deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your CV to perfection.

Remember:

Every wagging tail is a testament to your dedication.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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