Provide safe, attentive, and professional care and handling for dogs in accordance with the organisation’s standards for animal welfare, security, and service. The Dog Handler will supervise and exercise dogs, follow individual care instructions, monitor their health and behaviour, and communicate effectively with colleagues and owners to support each dog’s wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle, supervise, and care for dogs in a calm, patient, and responsible manner.

• Follow care instructions for each dog, including feeding, exercise, medication, routines, and any specific behavioural or health requirements.

• Walk and exercise dogs safely, using appropriate leads, harnesses, and other equipment.

• Monitor dogs during activities and interactions, taking steps to prevent injury, distress, escape, or conflict.

• Observe and report changes in a dog’s health, behaviour, appetite, or condition to the supervisor or manager.

• Administer medication only when authorised and in accordance with the relevant instructions and procedures.

• Clean and maintain kennels, exercise areas, equipment, and other dog-care spaces to required hygiene standards.

• Prepare and provide food and water in line with individual dietary instructions and food hygiene procedures.

• Use handling equipment safely, and check it for cleanliness, condition, and suitability before use.

• Handle dogs’ belongings and personal information with care, discretion, and respect for privacy.

• Communicate professionally with owners, colleagues, and other authorised contacts regarding care routines and relevant observations.

• Keep accurate records of feeding, exercise, medication, behaviour, incidents, and other care activities as required.

• Respond appropriately to emergencies, incidents, or signs of illness, and promptly notify the supervisor or manager.

• Follow procedures for animal welfare, hygiene, infection control, security, emergency response, and incident reporting.

• Monitor supplies and report shortages, equipment faults, maintenance needs, or safety concerns promptly.

• Perform other relevant dog-care duties as assigned by the supervisor or manager.

Requirements

• Previous experience handling or caring for dogs in a professional, animal-care, or similar setting is desirable.

• Good understanding of dog behaviour, welfare, safe handling, and basic care requirements.

• Ability to handle dogs of different sizes, temperaments, and needs with patience and confidence.

• Awareness of signs of stress, illness, injury, or changes in behaviour, and ability to report concerns promptly.

• Reliable, responsible, and attentive, with a strong commitment to animal welfare and safety.

• Good communication skills and the ability to follow instructions and maintain accurate care records.

• Ability to work independently while contributing positively to a team.

• Calm and adaptable approach when responding to changing routines or unexpected situations.

• Physically able to walk and stand for extended periods and safely manage dogs and associated equipment.

• Willingness to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and maintain appropriate hygiene practices.

• Flexible to work shifts, including weekends and public holidays, in line with business requirements.