Shelter Animal Trainer

Position Summary:

At Joybound, we are committed to improving the adoptability of shelter dogs and cats while enriching their experience during their stay with us. The Shelter Animal Trainer assists in reaching Joybound's goals by creating and implementing behavior modification plans for priority animals, including those who are under-socialized, exhibit excitable or arousal related behaviors, or show behaviors that do not meet Joybound's adoption criteria.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Interact and communicate with colleagues, volunteers, and the public in a manner that advances a culture of positivity, professionalism, trust, transparency, empathy, and excellence at Joybound.

• Assist in behavior assessment for dogs and cats in the shelter

• Assist in the development of:

• Adoption showing and take-home plans

• In shelter management plans, such as walk and visiting/handling plans

• Assist with the decision-making process and aid in all aspects of the euthanasia processes.

• Assist in the enrichment program for dogs and cats

• Assist in humane medical handling of dogs and cats when needed

• Ability to work at minimum with 8 shelter guests on a daily basis

• Advise Joybound's foster volunteers with training and follow-up support.

• Update and maintain computer records regarding the assessment, status, feedback, training and management plan for all shelter guests in various software management systems

• Provide effective training of duties and mentoring to shelter volunteers and team members

• Ability to work with the more difficult to manage dogs and cats with behavioral concerns, including shelter guests that exhibit extreme anxiety, fear and aggressive behaviors.

• Perform cleaning and animal care duties as needed

• Ability and skills to work with and manage dogs and cats to maintain safety

• Always promote a humane and caring attitude toward all animals.

• Always treat people and animals with respect, contribute to effective teamwork, promote staff cooperation, and foster public relations beneficial to Joybound.

• Maintain the confidentiality of all information.

• Comply with all Federal, State and local safety regulations and laws, as well as Joybound policies and guidelines. Follow established procedures governing safe work practices; and perform duties in a manner that assures the safety of oneself and others.

• Perform duties in a manner which encourages attainment of goals, contributions and business for Joybound and its programs.

• Promote teamwork, communication, and cooperation with all other departments.

• Perform other duties as assigned.