Kennel Cleaner
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, runs, and play areas
- Remove waste and dispose of it safely
- Wash and sanitize food bowls, water bowls, and bedding
- Restock cleaning supplies, towels, and linens
- Follow infection control procedures and cleaning checklists
- Handle animals safely while moving them for cleaning
- Monitor basic health and behavior changes and report concerns
- Maintain laundry routines for blankets and towels
- Keep hallways, storage areas, and outdoor runs tidy
- Record completed tasks and note any facility issues
Top Skills for Success
Attention to Detail
Reliability
Time Management
Physical Stamina
Comfort Working With Animals
Safety Awareness
Cleaning and Disinfection
Infection Control
Animal Handling
Laundry Operations
Chemical Handling
Customer Service
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Kennel Attendant
Animal Care Technician
Veterinary Assistant
Grooming Assistant
Shelter Technician
Transition Opportunities
Lead Kennel Attendant
Shift Supervisor
Facility Coordinator
Animal Shelter Supervisor
Veterinary Technician
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Infection ControlAnimal HandlingChemical HandlingRecord KeepingDe escalation
Development SuggestionsAsk for the facility cleaning checklist and learn the disinfectant contact times. Request a short training session on safe animal handling and bite prevention. Practice consistent task tracking using a simple log. Learn how to respond calmly to stressed animals and fast paced environments.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 13 to 16 per hour
Mid LevelUSD 16 to 20 per hour
Senior LevelUSD 20 to 26 per hour
Growth Trend
Steady. Demand is supported by pet ownership, boarding services, grooming services, and animal shelter operations. Hiring is often local and can be seasonal in peak travel periods.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
PetSmart PetsHotelPetcoBanfield Pet HospitalVCA Animal HospitalsBluePearl Pet HospitalLocal animal sheltersLocal boarding kennelsLocal veterinary clinicsLocal grooming salons
Industry Sectors
Veterinary ServicesAnimal SheltersPet BoardingPet GroomingPet DaycareAnimal Rescue
Recommended Next Steps
1
Build a simple resume that highlights reliability, cleaning experience, and comfort around animals2
Ask employers about training for infection control and safe animal handling3
Keep a short list of measurable wins such as number of kennels cleaned per shift and zero safety incidents4
Learn the facility routines for laundry, supply restocking, and end of day closing tasks5
If you want to advance, ask to cross train in feeding routines, basic animal care, and front desk support