Animal Care Technician

Overview:
The Animal Care Attendant is a vital member of the Animal Care team at the Niagara SPCA and Humane Society (NSPCAHS). Under the direction of the Manager, Animal Care, this role supports the mission of promoting animal welfare by providing high-quality care to animals in our shelter, ensuring a clean and safe environment, and assisting with various administrative and operational tasks. The Animal Care Attendant works closely with the Animal Care Manager, RVT (Registered Veterinary Technician), volunteers, and other team members to ensure that all animals receive the appropriate care and attention they need.

The Animal Care Attendant must believe that all animals deserve to be treated with respect, dignity, empathy and compassion and that they have an intrinsic value in improving the quality of life of an individual, family and community. They also believe that the humane treatment of animals leads to a more civil society and a better world.

The Animal Care Attendant must juggle multiple demands and will work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.

Adhere to Policies & Procedures:

- Follow NSPCAHS departmental policies, procedures, and regulations.
- Promote the mission and values of the NSPCAHS, focusing on the welfare and safety of animals.

Animal Care:

- Provide daily care for animals, including feeding, watering, and ensuring exercise and enrichment are completed.
- Administer medication and provide special care (e.g., wound care, post-operative care) as directed by the RVT, Animal Care Manager, or veterinary staff.
- Assist with restraining animals for veterinary procedures when required.
- Evaluate animals for health concerns, including checking for matted fur, long nails, and other health issues while cleaning and report concerns to the Animal Care Manager or RVT.
- Maintain up-to-date health records for all animals.

Facility Maintenance:

- Regularly clean and disinfect animal care facilities, including kennels, cages, prep kitchens, and common areas, to ensure a hygienic environment.
- Maintain and clean animal care equipment.

Animal Intake and Identification:

- Check stray animals for identification, including scanning for microchips, and record identifying factors such as breed, age, and gender.
- Assist with the intake of animals and ensure all documentation is completed accurately and promptly.

Customer Service:

- Provide customer service support related to adoption inquiries, intake procedures, complaints, and animal behavior concerns.
- Foster positive relationships with the public, volunteers, and other stakeholders.

Administrative Support:

- Assist with maintaining accurate departmental records and ensure confidentiality.
- Help with paperwork, animal tracking, and PetPoint software as required.
- Support inventory control and assist with ordering supplies as necessary.

Collaboration & Communication:

- Work closely with fellow team members and communicate regularly with the Animal Care Manager regarding departmental needs and activities.
- Provide relevant updates and assist with team coordination and goal achievement.

Training and Mentorship:

- Support volunteers, students, and work placements by providing guidance, training, and orientation as required.
- Participate in ongoing professional development and training as needed.

Compliance and Best Practices:

- Stay current with relevant legislation, regulations, and NSPCAHS policies and procedures.
- Ensure good animal care practices are followed in all activities.
- Post-secondary education in related discipline (e.g. Animal Sciences, Animal Care, Animal Health Technician), or equivalent experience preferred
- Previous experience in animal care or a related field is preferred.
- Strong knowledge of animal welfare practices, animal behavior, and health care.
- Ability to work independently or within a team and communicate clearly with fellow staff members.
- Strong attention to detail, particularly when documenting animal care and maintaining records.
- Physical ability to perform cleaning and animal care duties, including lifting, standing for extended periods, and restraining animals when necessary.
- Compassion and empathy for animals, with a commitment to their health and well-being.
- Familiarity with animal care software (such as PetPoint) and basic office software is an asset.
- Ability to handle sensitive situations and maintain confidentiality.
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evenings as required.
- A positive, solution-oriented attitude and a strong commitment to the NSPCAHS mission and values.
- Clear Police Clearance Certificate
- Protective rabies titre an asset (or willingness to receive pre-exposure rabies vaccinations to obtain protective titre)

The Niagara SPCA and Humane Society is an equal opportunity employer and we value diversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientatio