About this role
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The Canine Wellness Apprentice is responsible for providing quality care of the dogs and puppies housed in the kennels as well as the cleaning and maintenance of the kennels, dog exercise yards and kennel complex. This position will also learn Canine Companions values, mission and training protocols.
Through structured training, observation, and supervised hands-on experience, the Canine Wellness Technician I develops the knowledge and practical skills needed to support daily kennel operations and canine wellness. Helps to prepare for Canine Training Instructor Apprentice program. The position requires adherence to established safety procedures, care protocols, documentation standards, and supervisory direction while prioritizing the health and well-being of every dog and puppy.
Program Duties:
- Canine care, handling, and welfare
- Sanitation, infection prevention, and facility maintenance
- Feeding, nutrition, and medication protocols
- Health observation and emergency response
- Grooming and behavioral observation
- Recordkeeping and attention to detail
- Inventory management and operational organization
- Communication, teamwork, and volunteer support
- Professionalism, accountability, and commitment to organizational value
Successful completion of the Canine Wellness Apprentice program may lead to consideration for paid Canine Companions employment based on qualifications, performance, business needs and position availability.
Employee Testimonial
Getting to work closely with the dogs who will be changing someone elses life is beyond rewarding and knowing I play a part in our mission to help make that happen is an indescribable feeling of happiness.
— Canine Wellness Team Member
Qualifications
Must Have
To be eligible for this opportunity, you must:
- Be an active-duty U.S. service member within 180 days of separation or retirement
- Have completed at least 180 days of active-duty service
- Expect an honorable discharge
- Complete required transition assistance requirements
- Be able to work in person in Santa Rosa, CA
Nice to Have
- Prior dog handling, training and/or dog health care experience
Schedule
- Full-Time, 40 hours/week
- Program Duration: up to 26 weeks
Inclusion and Diversity Commitment
We recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job. If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying. Diversity of experience and skills combined with passion is a key to innovation and excellence. Therefore, we encourage people from all backgrounds to apply to our positions.
Accommodation Request
If you need accommodations during the interview process, please let us know. We are committed to ensuring all applicants have equal access to the opportunity to succeed.