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Job description

THE EMPLOYER IS: MCDOGS PLAY CENTRE LISBURN We are a dedicated pet care service, offering dog walking, and dog training. Our mission is to provide the best care for dogs and their owners, ensuring the safety, happiness, and well-being of pets while their owners are busy or away. As a Dog Walker, you will be responsible for walking dogs of various breeds, sizes, and temperaments in safe environments. You will ensure dogs get the necessary exercise, mental stimulation, and companionship they need. You will be the main point of contact for pet owners during walking sessions, providing peace of mind through excellent communication and care. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys working with dogs, staying active, and providing reliable, caring services to pet owners. Shifts typically range from early morning to evening hours, weekends may be required based on client needs. Flexible working hours can be arranged with clients, depending on their schedules.

Responsibilities

• Collect dogs from Owners premises and transport to our Centre.
• Take dogs on walks, ensuring they get sufficient exercise and enjoy their time outdoors.
• Walk dogs in accordance with owner preferences, including route, duration, and any special needs (e.g., health conditions, socialization).
• Ensure all dogs are walked on-leash unless otherwise instructed by the owner.
• Always prioritize the safety and well-being of the dogs.
• Manage dogs in public spaces to avoid accidents or interactions with other dogs that may be inappropriate.
• Be observant of dogs' behaviour and report any health or behavioural issues to the owner.
• Ensure dogs are hydrated during walks, especially on hot days, and provide water if necessary.
• In some cases, assist with feeding dogs before or after the walk, depending on owner requirements.
• Reinforce basic commands or training during walks as requested by the pet owner (e.g., sit, stay, heel).
• Observe and report any behavioural issues (e.g., excessive barking, pulling on the leash) that may require attention or training.
• Provide regular updates to pet owners after walks, including photos, videos, or brief reports of the dog’s behaviour and activity.
• Maintain professional and friendly communication with dog owners to ensure a positive relationship.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Passion for animals and experience with handling dogs of various breeds and temperaments.
• Ability to walk long distances (up to 1-2 hours or more) and manage multiple dogs at once.
• Comfortable with outdoor activities in various weather conditions.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively with pet owners.
• Ability to provide updates in a professional, friendly manner.
• A strong sense of responsibility for the pets' safety and care.
• Able to work independently and follow instructions from dog owners.

Desirable Skills

• Previous experience in pet care (dog walking, sitting, training) is preferred but not essential.
• An understanding of basic dog health and emergency care is beneficial, but not required (training can be provided).
• A full UK driving license and access to a car is beneficial, but not essential, depending on the location.

Further Information

The Employer is: MCDOGS PLAY CENTRE LISBURN JobStart Opportunity - Working Hours Information - Standard Hours: up to 25 hours per week. - Flexible/Reduced Hours: May be available upon approval by a Work Coach. - Additional Hours: The employer may offer extra hours depending on availability. This should be discussed directly with the employer before starting employment. The job advert may end before the closing date if requested by the employer.

Application Information

JOBSTART IS OPEN TO WORKING AGE BENEFIT CLAIMANTS WHO ARE DEEMED ELIGIBLE BY A WORK COACH. If you are on Universal Credit, please contact your Work Coach via your Journal. If you are in receipt of any other working age benefit, please contact your local Jobs & Benefits Office on 0800 001 5782.