Kennel Owner

Kennel owners care for companion animals such as dogs and cats when their owners are away from home or working. Kennel owners, sometimes called animal caretakers, provide basic care such as providing food and water, bathing, cage cleaning and exercising. They may also offer additional services such as training, grooming, animal health care, and breeding. Besides providing some of these basic needs, animal owners may also look for kennel operators to play with their pets and provide companionship.

Education and Training

Most kennel owners develop animal caretaking skills through job experience gained over a period of time. Often, aspiring kennel owners start with entry-level positions that call for cage cleaning, feeding and watering of animals. Eventually, promotional opportunities may present themselves in administrative and managerial positions. Persons who have the financial means as well as experience may eventually open their own kennels.

Individuals may wish to follow a 3-stage, home-study program sponsored by the American Boarding Kennels Association (ABKA). Those who complete the third stage and take an oral and written examination can become Certified Kennel Operators (CKO).

On the Job

Most kennel owners enjoy being around animals. The daily work routine, however, can be quite demanding. For example, sometimes animals become nervous or agitated when they are away from their home and owners. There can also be a fair amount of heavy lifting and moving. Kennel owners must also be willing to work irregular hours, including weekends. A large kennel can also be quite noisy. Nonetheless, most kennel owners derive great satisfaction from caring for animals.

Math on the Job

Kennel owners usually keep data on file relating to an animal’s schedule and needs. This data also helps kennel operators maintain an inventory of essential items such as food and medical supplies. As with any business, kennel owners must also keep accurate billing and customer information records. The ability to work with computers and business software is helpful in organizing such data.

Related Careers

• animal breeder
• animal trainer
• veterinarian
• zoologist