Dog Handler Or Trainer Onboarding Checklist

Dog Handler Or Trainer Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Dog Handler Or Trainer starts their role, they can learn about their responsibilities and your company as quickly as possible? Whether you’re keen to use buddy onboarding, want to automate your Animal Care onboarding experience or just need an onboarding checklist for your new Dog Handler Or Trainer, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Dog Handler Or Trainer onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Dog Handler Or Trainer Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The new dog handler or trainer should receive a comprehensive orientation to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and culture. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated trainer.

2. Facility Tour: It is essential for the new dog handler or trainer to be given a tour of the entire facility, including kennels, training areas, grooming rooms, and any other relevant spaces. This task is usually performed by a senior staff member or a supervisor.

3. Introduction to Colleagues: The new hire should be introduced to their colleagues, including other dog handlers, trainers, and support staff. This introduction helps foster a sense of belonging and encourages collaboration. Typically, a supervisor or team leader performs this task.

4. Review of Safety Protocols: Safety is paramount in the animal care industry. The new dog handler or trainer should receive a thorough review of safety protocols, including emergency procedures, handling techniques, and equipment usage. This task is usually performed by a senior staff member or a designated safety officer.

5. Familiarization with Dog Breeds: Since different dog breeds have unique characteristics and temperaments, it is crucial for the new hire to become familiar with various breeds. This knowledge will aid in understanding their specific needs and training requirements. A senior dog handler or trainer typically performs this task.

6. Training Techniques and Methods: The new dog handler or trainer should receive training on the company’s preferred techniques and methods for dog handling and training. This may include positive reinforcement, clicker training, or other approaches. A senior trainer or a designated training specialist performs this task.

7. Shadowing Experienced Handlers: To gain practical experience and observe best practices, the new hire should have the opportunity to shadow experienced dog handlers or trainers. This task is typically coordinated by a supervisor or team leader.

8. Learning Company-Specific Commands: Each dog training facility may have its own set of commands or cues. The new hire should be taught these specific commands to ensure consistency in training. A senior trainer or a designated training specialist performs this task.

9. Introduction to Training Equipment: The new dog handler or trainer should be introduced to the various training equipment used in the facility, such as leashes, collars, clickers, and agility equipment. A senior staff member or a designated equipment specialist performs this task.

10. Understanding Health and Hygiene Practices: It is crucial for the new hire to understand and follow proper health and hygiene practices to ensure the well-being of the dogs and staff. This task is typically performed by a senior staff member or a designated health and safety officer.

11. Learning Administrative Tasks: Depending on the company’s structure, the new dog handler or trainer may be required to perform administrative tasks such as record-keeping, scheduling appointments, or client communication. A supervisor or administrative staff member typically trains the new hire in these tasks.

12. Introduction to Company Policies: The new hire should be provided with a comprehensive overview of company policies, including attendance, dress code, code of conduct, and any other relevant policies. This task is typically performed by the HR department or a designated trainer.

13. Continuing Education Opportunities: To encourage professional growth, the new dog handler or trainer should be informed about any continuing education opportunities, workshops, or conferences available to them. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or a designated training coordinator.

14. Introduction to Animal Welfare Organizations: If the company collaborates with animal welfare organizations or shelters, the new hire should be introduced to these partnerships and understand the company’s involvement. A senior staff member or a designated community outreach coordinator typically performs this task.

15. Performance Expectations and Evaluation: The new dog handler or trainer should have a clear understanding of their performance expectations and how they will be evaluated. This includes discussing goals, performance metrics, and any probationary periods. A supervisor or HR representative typically performs this task

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Dog Handler Or Trainer checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Dog Handler Or Trainer up to speed and working well in your Animal Care team. Scroll up to see the link to our onboarding templates & resources or get in touch to discuss getting help setting up your systems and processes in this area.