Job Description

The Dog Stop® Bucktown is looking for enthusiastic Canine Handlers, dubbed "Canine Companions," to join our team.

The Role  

Our Handlers care for and supervise dogs in daycare and boarding, ensuring their safety, well-being, and enrichment. While the role is relatively straightforward, it requires our handlers to prioritize dog safety above all else; and maintain cleanliness as a close second. This is a highly active, physical role, and not just sitting around playing with or petting dogs. This role used to be referred to as a “Runner” and applicants and good candidates should expect being on their feet all day and racking up over 10k steps.

Job Responsibilities Include

• Monitor and interact with groups of dogs to ensure safety and positive behavior
• Spot and address early signs of stress or conflict among dogs
• Provide enrichment, exercise, and basic training during play sessions
• Clean play areas, kennels, and equipment routinely throughout shifts
• Record and report incidents, health issues, and behavioral notes
• Assist in feeding, administering medication, and transitioning dogs between activities
• Deliver excellent customer service to pet owners

The Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Prior experience handling dogs in a daycare, kennel, shelter, or similar setting required
• Physically able to stand, walk, clean, and lift throughout your shift
• Strong observation, teamwork, and communication skills
• Must be reliable, detail-oriented, and passionate about dog care
• Experience = Minimum 6 months of hands-on experience working with groups of dogs in a professional setting

The Culture

We are a customer-focused, safety-first team dedicated to each dog’s happiness, health, and enrichment. Our environment values teamwork, transparency, and ongoing training.

The Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay
• Hands-on, industry-leading training
• Opportunities for relatively quick advancement
• Work with a supportive, dog-loving team
• Discounts on retail (20%), Free Employee Dog Daycare while working, Discounted Boarding, Discounted Grooming

The Application Process

• Apply online with your resume and ideally a brief cover letter describing your dog-handling experience. 
• Qualified candidates will be contacted for an interview and a hands-on trial shift within 1 week of that interview.
• We currently have multiple PART TIME hours available ranging from 5 hours/ week up to 20 hours / week.
• We're looking to add at least 2 people in the next 1 week, pending we receive the right applicants.

Respond with your résumé today to join a great team working to provide the best dog care available in this booming industry!

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