Job Summary:
We are looking for a caring, reliable and practical Animal Care Assistant to join our team at Marsh Lane Farm. The role involves the daily care of puppies and adult dogs, maintaining clean and safe accommodation, and supporting each dog’s physical and emotional welfare through appropriate routines, handling and enrichment.
Hours: Full-time position available, with hours either from 7:00 am to 3:00 pm or 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. One weekend day is required each week.
References: Satisfactory references will be required
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare and provide food in line with each dog’s individual feeding plan.
- Provide suitable daily exercise, play and enrichment for puppies and adult dogs.
- Clean and maintain kennels, sleeping areas, food preparation spaces, equipment and outdoor areas.
- Ensure dogs have access to fresh water, clean bedding and safe, comfortable accommodation.
- Monitor the dogs’ health, behaviour and general welfare, recording and reporting any concerns promptly.
- Carry out routine grooming, coat care and basic hygiene tasks.
- Provide basic canine first aid when required and follow the charity’s procedures for veterinary or welfare concerns.
- Handle dogs calmly and safely, using welfare-focused and positive approaches.
- Support socialisation and appropriate interaction according to each dog’s age, training stage and individual needs.
- Follow all farm procedures relating to health and safety, infection control, safeguarding, record keeping and dog welfare.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues and provide clear handovers between shifts.
Essential Requirements:
- Practical experience caring for or handling dogs.
- A good understanding of routine animal care, including feeding, exercise, cleaning and hygiene.
- A dependable and organised approach, with the ability to follow individual care instructions.
- Confidence working with both puppies and adult dogs.
- The physical ability to carry out cleaning, lifting and animal care duties throughout the working day.
- Availability to work both shift patterns and one weekend day each week.
- Ability to provide satisfactory references.
Desirable Requirements:
- An animal welfare, animal care or related qualification.
- Canine first-aid training or experience.
- Experience working in kennels, rescue, veterinary, training or assistance dog environments.
- Knowledge of canine behaviour, enrichment and welfare.
The Opportunity:
Joining our team offers the opportunity to work in a unique and fulfilling environment, gain valuable experience in animal welfare, and learn about autism and the benefits that assistance dogs provide to their handlers.
How to Apply:
Please send your CV and a brief covering statement explaining your relevant experience and availability to [email protected] by 1 August 2026.
Pay: Up to £25,420.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
