Canine Behavioral Specialist – Part Time

Allegan County has much to offer, with 24 Townships, 9 Cities, and 2 Villages across nearly 900 square miles. The landscapes range from the lakeshore to beautifully wooded lands, our Countys natural resources are a gift to be treasured. Allegan County businesses, citizens, and employees are world-class, and we remain a welcoming, closely-knit community. We are one of the fastest-growing counties in Michigan.
Allegan County Government places high importance on our core values: Respect, Integrity, Commitment and Honesty.  A common thread among our leadership, employees and volunteers is a strong desire to serve and be part of something meaningful. We were recently identified as “Best in Class Winner” among mid-size companies for our excellence in optimizing employee and organizational well-being. We have also received the Impact Award for excellence in educating our employees about their retirement plans and overall financial wellness. We are looking for dedicated, caring, energetic people to join our team!

Job Summary

This position assesses dogs for adoption and is also responsible for continuing behavioral enrichment of the shelter dogs during their stay. Intake of new dogs occurs seven days per week at the Allegan County Animal Shelter. New dogs complete an initial four-day stay at the shelter and are then evaluated weekly. This position also prepares dogs and approved individuals/families for adoption and subsequent life together.

Wage: $21.79 per hour – Part Time – Average of 19.5 hours per week

Responsibilities and Duties:

1. Utilizes modified version of the ASPCA “Safety Assessment for Evaluating Rehoming” (SAFER) tool to behaviorally assess new dogs at the shelter and determine their disposition and needs.
2. Creates weekly schedule for behavioral enrichment activities for the dogs and performs those activities as outlined.
3. Documents and maintains records of the dogs behavior, progress, needs and any other concerns during their stay at the shelter.
4. Recommends necessary rehabilitation steps for dogs exhibiting mental breakdowns or behavioral issues.
5. Identifies and facilitates play groups for dogs staying in the shelter
6. Utilizes modified version of the “Meet Your Match Canine-ality” program to assess dogs eligibility for adoption and prepare dogs and families for adoption.
7. Conducts dog-to-dog introductions for assessment of fit with any dogs that already live in the prospective adopters home.
8. Communicates with volunteers and potential adopters regarding behavior traits and needs of the shelter dogs in their new homes.
9. Ability to understand basic dog behavior, body language, and signs of mental “breakdown” in dogs, as well as the ability to respond appropriately, in a calm non-threatening manner.
10. Ability to handle aggressive and/or injured animals in a manner that is safe for animals and shelter staff, for purposes of intake, kenneling, medical care, etc. and euthanization, if necessary.

Education:

– High School Diploma or GED equivalent

Experience / Qualifications:

– Certificate in dog behavior assessment or equivalent previous experience
– Previous experience in animal care or other related fields preferred