Veterinary Kennel Assistant

Career Guide
A Veterinary Kennel Assistant supports daily animal care and clinic operations. The role focuses on keeping pets safe, comfortable, and clean while helping the veterinary team stay organized and on schedule.

Key Responsibilities

  • Clean and disinfect kennels, cages, exam rooms, and treatment areas
  • Feed and water animals based on posted instructions
  • Walk dogs and support safe animal handling
  • Monitor animals for appetite, behavior, and comfort changes
  • Report concerns to veterinary staff promptly
  • Wash and dry bedding, towels, and clinic laundry
  • Restock supplies such as food, cleaning products, and linens
  • Assist with patient transport within the clinic
  • Support appointment flow by preparing rooms and basic equipment
  • Maintain a calm environment to reduce animal stress
  • Follow infection control and safety procedures
  • Communicate clearly with team members during busy periods

Top Skills for Success

Animal Handling
Sanitation Practices
Infection Control
Observation Skills
Attention to Detail
Time Management
Teamwork
Communication
Stress Management
Customer Service
Record Keeping
Physical Stamina

Career Progression

Can Lead To
Veterinary Assistant
Animal Care Technician
Veterinary Receptionist
Lead Kennel Attendant
Transition Opportunities
Veterinary Technician
Practice Manager
Animal Shelter Supervisor
Groomer

Common Skill Gaps

Often Missing Skills
Safe Restraint TechniquesFear Free HandlingInfection ControlBasic Animal Health MonitoringChemical SafetyMedical Record Basics
Development SuggestionsAsk to shadow experienced staff during handling and cleaning routines. Complete short courses on animal handling, infection control, and workplace safety. Build a simple checklist habit for cleaning steps and daily observations to improve consistency.

Salary & Demand

Median Salary Range
Entry LevelUS$26,000 to US$34,000
Mid LevelUS$34,000 to US$42,000
Senior LevelUS$42,000 to US$52,000
Growth Trend
Steady demand. Hiring remains consistent due to ongoing need for routine pet care, boarding services, and support roles in veterinary clinics.

Companies Hiring

Major Employers
Banfield Pet HospitalVCA Animal HospitalsBluePearl Pet HospitalPetIQNational Veterinary Associates
Industry Sectors
Veterinary ClinicsEmergency Animal HospitalsAnimal SheltersBoarding FacilitiesPet Daycare CentersHumane Societies

Recommended Next Steps

1
Create a one page resume that highlights animal care tasks, cleaning routines, and reliability
2
Get a basic pet first aid certificate if available in your area
3
Learn clinic cleaning standards such as disinfectant contact times
4
Practice low stress handling techniques under supervision
5
Track examples of responsibility such as opening duties, closing duties, and supply restocking
6
Ask your supervisor for a skills checklist and clear goals for the next 60 days