Assistant K9 Handler

Houston, TX - Salary Range $41,600 - $52,000 (company provided van)

Job Brief

This is a unique opportunity to work with K9s, stay active, and make a difference. Our client transports dogs from the Houston area to a private ranch for hiking, training, and boarding. If you love dogs and enjoy the outdoors, this is a fun and rewarding role.

The K9 Assistant supports daily canine care and ranch operations, including feeding, grooming, exercising, cleaning, transporting dogs, and assisting with group hikes. The ideal candidate is physically active, dependable, a team player, and passionate about the health, safety, and well-being of dogs.

Responsibilities

• Transport: Provide transport to the ranch, Monday - Friday, in a company owned Van.
• Hiking Assistance: Assist owner with K9 hiking sessions learning and practicing basic and advanced handling techniques.
• Safety and Maintenance: Ensure the safety of the K9s and surrounding environment, which includes the cleaning of all areas the K9s play and sleep in.
• Communication: Work closely with owner/handler and K9 owners to provide information and support.

Requirements

• Dog Handling: Ability to safely handle dogs of various breed, sizes, and temperaments.
• Animal Behavior: Basic understanding of canine behavior, including body language, to identify threats of aggression or flight.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to perform physical tasks, such as lifting, running/hiking, and standing for extended periods.
• Communication: Excellent communication and customer service skills to interact with clients, and colleagues.
• Teamwork: Strong ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Passion for Dogs: A deep commitment to animal welfare and a genuine desire to work with dogs.
• Knowledge of Training: Familiarity with basic obedience commands and training methods are preferred but with the right individual, the owner is willing to train.
• Clean Driving Record: A valid drivers license and a clean driving record are critical to transport K9s.