Kennel Technician
Career GuideKey Responsibilities
- Clean and sanitize kennels, cages, and common areas
- Feed and water animals based on schedules and instructions
- Provide exercise, enrichment, and basic handling support
- Monitor appetite, energy, stool, and behavior for changes
- Report health concerns to supervisors or clinical staff
- Assist with safe animal restraint during exams or grooming
- Support basic grooming such as brushing and bathing when required
- Maintain accurate care notes and logs
- Prepare kennels with bedding, bowls, and supplies
- Follow safety rules for bites, scratches, and disease prevention
- Support check in and check out processes in boarding settings
- Restock supplies and help keep the facility organized
Top Skills for Success
Animal Handling
Sanitation Practices
Observation Skills
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Physical Stamina
Communication
Customer Service
Animal Behavior Basics
Infection Prevention
Career Progression
Can Lead To
Senior Kennel Technician
Animal Care Lead
Kennel Supervisor
Boarding Facility Manager
Transition Opportunities
Veterinary Assistant
Veterinary Technician
Groomer
Dog Trainer
Shelter Animal Care Specialist
Common Skill Gaps
Often Missing Skills
Safe Restraint TechniquesMedication HandlingRecord KeepingDe escalation TechniquesRecognizing Signs of IllnessBite PreventionProfessional Communication
Development SuggestionsAsk to be cross trained on safe handling and basic care logging. Complete a short animal handling course and review facility cleaning standards. If working in a clinic, request supervised exposure to basic medication routines and post care monitoring.
Salary & Demand
Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUSD 28,000 to 34,000 per year
Mid LevelUSD 34,000 to 42,000 per year
Senior LevelUSD 42,000 to 52,000 per year
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring is supported by continued pet ownership and the ongoing need for boarding, shelter care, and veterinary support. Pay varies widely by region, shift type, and facility.Companies Hiring
Major Employers
VCA Animal HospitalsBanfield Pet HospitalBluePearl Pet HospitalPetcoPetSmartDogtopiaASPCABest Friends Animal SocietyHumane Society of the United States
Industry Sectors
Veterinary HospitalsPet BoardingDog DaycareAnimal SheltersRescue OrganizationsGrooming Facilities
Recommended Next Steps
1
Get a pet first aid certification2
Complete a basic animal handling course3
Learn your facility sanitation checklist and follow it consistently4
Keep a simple log of accomplishments such as intake volume and cleaning accuracy5
Ask for training on behavior warning signs and stress signals6
Build a resume that highlights reliability, cleanliness, and safety7
If aiming for a clinic path, explore a Veterinary Assistant program8
If aiming for a management path, request shift lead tasks such as scheduling support and supply tracking