Kennel Hand Onboarding Checklist

Kennel Hand Onboarding Process

Are you looking for help setting up a staff orientation process so that when your new Kennel Hand 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 Kennel Hand, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a sample Kennel Hand onboarding checklist below and have created onboarding templates & resources to help.

Kennel Hand Onboarding Checklist

1. Orientation: The kennel hand should receive a comprehensive orientation to familiarize themselves with the company’s policies, procedures, and safety protocols. This task is typically performed by the human resources department or a designated supervisor.

2. Facility Tour: A tour of the kennel facility is essential to help the new kennel hand become familiar with the layout, different areas, and equipment. This task is usually performed by a senior kennel hand or supervisor.

3. Introduction to Staff: The new kennel hand should be introduced to their colleagues and other staff members, including veterinarians, groomers, and trainers. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or a designated staff member.

4. Training on Animal Handling: Proper training on animal handling techniques is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of the animals and the kennel hand. This task is usually performed by experienced kennel hands or trainers.

5. Familiarization with Animal Care Protocols: The new kennel hand should be trained on the specific care protocols for different animals, including feeding schedules, exercise routines, medication administration, and grooming requirements. This task is typically performed by experienced kennel hands or supervisors.

6. Cleaning and Sanitization Procedures: The kennel hand should be trained on the proper cleaning and sanitization procedures to maintain a clean and healthy environment for the animals. This task is usually performed by experienced kennel hands or supervisors.

7. Emergency Procedures: The new kennel hand should receive training on emergency procedures, including evacuation plans, first aid, and handling unexpected situations. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or designated safety officer.

8. Equipment and Tool Training: The kennel hand should be trained on the proper use and maintenance of equipment and tools used in the kennel, such as leashes, grooming tools, and cleaning supplies. This task is usually performed by experienced kennel hands or supervisors.

9. Record-Keeping and Documentation: The new kennel hand should be trained on the proper record-keeping and documentation procedures, including animal health records, feeding logs, and incident reports. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or designated administrative staff.

10. Customer Service Training: As part of their role, the kennel hand may interact with pet owners and clients. Therefore, training in customer service skills, such as effective communication and handling inquiries, is important. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or designated customer service trainer.

11. Health and Safety Training: The kennel hand should receive comprehensive training on health and safety protocols, including proper lifting techniques, personal protective equipment usage, and zoonotic disease prevention. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or designated safety officer.

12. Introduction to Animal Behavior: Understanding animal behavior is crucial for a kennel hand. They should receive training on recognizing signs of stress, aggression, or illness in animals and how to respond appropriately. This task is typically performed by experienced kennel hands or trainers.

13. Shadowing and Mentoring: The new kennel hand should have the opportunity to shadow and learn from experienced kennel hands, allowing them to observe and learn best practices in real-life situations. This task is typically performed by experienced kennel hands or supervisors.

14. Performance Expectations and Feedback: Clear performance expectations should be communicated to the new kennel hand, and regular feedback sessions should be scheduled to provide guidance and support for their professional development. This task is typically performed by a supervisor or designated performance manager.

15. Ongoing Training and Professional Development: The kennel hand should be encouraged to participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in animal care. This task is typically coordinated by the human resources department or a designated training coordinator

Setting Up Your Employee Onboarding Process

From reading through the items in the example Kennel Hand checklist above, you’ll now have an idea of how you can apply best practices to getting your new Kennel Hand 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.