Work Environment
This occupation is typically found in the following Career Sector(s):
Videos on the Web
- Kennel Worker- from: Youtube Search
Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Performing General Physical Activities Performing physical activities that require considerable use of your arms and legs and moving your whole body, such as climbing, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and handling of materials.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Handling and Moving Objects Using hands and arms in handling, installing, positioning, and moving materials, and manipulating things.
- Monitor Processes, Materials, or Surroundings Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Organising, Planning, and Prioritising Work Developing specific goals and plans to prioritise, organise, and accomplish your work.
- Documenting/Recording Information Entering, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Working Life
Kennel workers care for dogs in various kinds of residential boarding and breeding establishments.
They clean, sweep, hose down and disinfect the dogs' living areas every day. They also feed the animals and make sure they have fresh water. Feeding may involve some preparation, particularly for dogs with special diets. Feeding bowls are washed after use.
Kennel workers make sure dogs in their care have regular exercise. They either take them for walks or let them out into enclosed runs. Experienced workers check the dogs' health and condition and may treat minor ailments.
Depending on the kennel, the work may include other duties such as grooming or dog training. There may be clerical duties, for example keeping a record of bookings and taking payments.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Feed and water animals according to schedules and feeding instructions.
- Provide treatment to sick or injured animals, or contact veterinarians to secure treatment.
- Examine and observe animals to detect signs of illness, disease, or injury.
- Mix food, liquid formulas, medications, or food supplements according to instructions, prescriptions, and knowledge of animal species.
- Do facility laundry and clean, organise, maintain, and disinfect animal quarters, such as pens and stables, and equipment, such as saddles and bridles.
- Exercise animals to maintain their physical and mental health.
- Collect and record animal information, such as weight, sise, physical condition, treatments received, medications given, and food intake.
- Respond to questions from patrons, and provide information about animals, such as behavior, habitat, breeding habits, or facility activities.
- Answer telephones and schedule appointments.
- Advise pet owners on how to care for their pets' health.
Qualities - Kennel Worker
This job requires physical fitness and good health. You must like dogs and be able to handle them gently and patiently. You need to be responsible and ready to note any changes in each dog's condition.
Kennel workers must also be prepared to carry out dirty and sometimes unpleasant tasks without being squeamish. Kennels can often be noisy and smelly places.
This type of work may be unsuitable if you have skin allergies, due to the chemicals involved washing dogs and disinfecting living quarters.
Interests - Kennel Worker
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Realist
Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.
Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Entry / Progression - Kennel Worker
There are many pathways into a sustainable career in animal care as an ethical Kennel Worker. Some previous experience of work with animals is an advantage.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Further Education (FET)
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Example search terms include: animal care.
Search for FET Courses
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Example search terms include: animal care, animal science, veterinary assistance, veterinary nursing, animal care dog grooming.
Search for PLC Courses
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Animal Welfare & Environmental Protection.
Veterinary
Ethical For Profit Entrepreneur
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Pay & Salary - Kennel Worker
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €25k - €32k
Salaries vary by employer, location, duties, role, experience, and sessional shift pattern & conditions.
Data Source(s):
Indeed/ Payscale/ Glassdoor
Last Updated: February, 2024
Labour Market Updates - Kennel Worker
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Veterinary nurses; Pest control officers; Animal care services occupations n.e.c.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).
Numbers employed in this occupation are too small to allow for any analysis. Employment permits issued in 2022 related to work riders in the equestrian sector.
Useful Contacts - Kennel Worker
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Irish Professional Dog Grooming Association
- 119 Ballyboden Road, Rathfarnham, Dublin 14
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- [email protected]
- Click Here
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Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
- National Animal Centre, Derrylogher Lodge, Keenagh, Co. Longford
- (043) 3325035
- [email protected]
- Click Here
