Senior Canine Attendant

SENIOR CANINE ATTENDANT (PART-TIME)

​​​​​The Homestead Nottawa is seeking a Senior Canine Attendant who brings both compassion and competence to our team. We need someone who finds satisfaction in any task—from mastering our booking software to cleaning kennels—and responds to every request with genuine willingness. You'll be the steady presence our team relies on during busy periods and enjoy opportunities for continuing education and personal growth.

The Homestead Nottawa is a private family home and professional facility - candidates who arrive on property without a scheduled appointment will be immediately disqualified from consideration, as unexpected visitors cause stress and anxiety for our dogs and pull staff away from their primary responsibility of hands-on dog care.

Key Responsibilities​​

Dog Supervision & Care

• Proactively monitor dog behaviour and maintain safe group dynamics
• Conduct and record behavioral observations and health monitoring
• Administer medications as directed
• Manage complex feeding schedules and dietary requirements
• Must be willing and accepting of all dog breeds, sizes, behaviors, and personalities (we do not work with aggressive dogs)
• Demonstrate patience and encouragement for every dog, including those requiring additional exercise, patience, training, or support
• Join in off-leash and leashed pack walks, enrichment activities, and special events

Facility & Operations

• Maintain pristine cleanliness in all areas without being asked
• Perform opening (7am) and closing (6pm) procedures
• Handle any task with equal enthusiasm—from dog baths, to photo shoots to deep cleaning

Client Services

• Communicate effectively with clients, staying firm but friendly when needed
• Assist with intake procedures and check-in/check-out
• Capture and share photos for client updates
• Handle difficult client situations with professionalism and grace

Team Support & Training

• Provide calm, supportive presence during high-stress situations
• Help train and mentor newer staff members with patience and clarity
• Work cooperatively with diverse personality types
• Cover crucial Friday shifts and coordinate coverage using our online staffing app

Administrative & Technical Excellence

• Master and manage our Gingr platform for bookings and client management
• Maintain accurate records and documentation
• Learn new systems quickly and help others navigate technology
• Handle incoming texts with professional, well-written responses

Requirements

MUST HAVES

• FRIDAY & WEEKEND AVAILABILITY - This is non-negotiable
• HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA - Current students will not be considered
• LOCAL APPLICANTS ONLY - Within 35-minute drive for emergency coverage
• Physical stamina for 6-8 hour shifts on your feet
• Exceptional reliability and commitment to finding shift coverage when needed
• Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions
• Natural calmness under pressure
• Comfort with technology

Bonus Skills & Experience (Highly Valued)

• Previous experience in dog care, veterinary, or animal settings
• Administrative or customer service background
• Experience training or mentoring others
• Tech support or software system experience
• Property maintenance or outdoor equipment operation
• Natural mediator who works well with different personalities

Schedule:

• 20-30 hours per week to start (potential to increase)
• Shifts: 6-8 hours between 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Must include Fridays plus additional days including weekends/holidays

Growth Opportunities

We're looking for someone who wants to grow with us:

• Increased administrative responsibilities
• Training and mentorship roles
• Continued education (both formal and informal)
• System management and tech support
• Potential full-time position for the right candidate

What Makes You Successful Here

This role is perfect for someone who:

• Smoothly handles multiple tasks at once like checking in dogs, answering owner questions, and monitoring playgroups simultaneously
• Quickly assesses situations and takes appropriate action, whether separating incompatible dogs or determining staffing needs in the moment
• Takes pride in being the reliable person everyone counts on
• Enjoys learning new things and teaching others
• Values being part of a team where their steadiness makes a real difference
• Can shift seamlessly between technical and hands-on work
• Genuinely finds satisfaction in being helpful—no matter the task

Important Notes

Year-Round Operations: We operate 365 days a year. Weekend and holiday availability is required.

Friday Coverage Critical: With key team members off Fridays, your availability this day is essential.

Small Team Dependency: Your reliability directly impacts our dogs' care and your teammates' wellbeing.

Physical Demands: Active job requiring 6-8 hours on your feet, working outdoors, handling dogs of all sizes.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $17.60-$21.00 per hour

Expected hours: 20 – 30 per week

Benefits:

• Casual dress
• Flexible schedule
• On-site parking
• Paid time off
• Store discount

Application question(s):

• Are you available to work Fridays, Weekends and some Holidays?
• Are you located within a 35 minute drive of Collingwood?

Location:

• Borden, ON (required)

Work Location: In person