Animal Care Associate

Job Summary

Playing one of the most crucial roles in the direct care of all PAWS Chicago internal animals, Animal Caregivers are responsible for the daily care and cleaning of all animals in the adoption program within PAWS Chicago. This includes: daily feeding, medicating and cleaning of all animal areas (both dogs and cats), washing dishes, completing laundry and other shelter chores. Also may require walking of dogs if no volunteers available.

Animal Caregivers must be willing to work closely with volunteers/staff. They are responsible for closely monitoring and following through with the medication and medical/behavior observation logs to ensure each animal is receiving the PAWS Chicago care standard. They must obey any animal exercise restrictions.

In addition to caring for all of the internal animals at PAWS Chicago, Animal Caregivers are also responsible for ensuring that common areas that are a part of the rescue and recovery area are clean and maintained. This includes: vacuuming, mopping and taking out trash for all kennels and common areas (playroom, walkways, dog bathing room & laundry areas).

• Responsible for ensuring the checklist items are done on a daily basis as assigned.
• Ensuring the housing areas are organized and presentable. The cat room should have matching blankets, towels, and bedding. The dogs should have a dog house and/or Kuranda bed, a blanket, toys, etc.
• Animal Supplies Inventory. Notify appropriate individual to replenish stock with adequate notice to maintain a stocked position.
• Animal Health. Coordinate with Animal Care Manager – Intake or Team Lead Animal Caregiver on any changes observed and as policy directs.
• Prepare Animals for Sx procedures. Ensure food and/or water is withheld when necessary and proper notice is displayed as requested.
• Animal Behavior. Ensure information on health or behavior changes are communicated to Animal Care Manager – Intake or Team Lead Animal Caregiver and as policy directs.
• Cleaning Supplies Inventory. Notify appropriate individual to replenish stock with adequate notice to maintain a stocked position.
• Be able to drive transport van and assist with transport of animal’s offsite.
• Other duties as requested or needed by supervisors.