About Company
Are you driven by a passion for animal welfare? Career.zycto specializes in connecting compassionate individuals with meaningful roles that make a tangible difference in the community. We partner with leading animal care organizations across Quebec, helping them build dedicated teams committed to the health and happiness of every creature. Joining a Career.zycto-placed team means stepping into an environment where your love for animals is not just welcomed, but celebrated and put into action daily. We believe in fostering environments where every animal shelter assistant can thrive, contribute significantly, and find immense satisfaction in their daily work, ensuring the highest standards of care.
Job Description
Join our compassionate team as an Animal Shelter Assistant in Laval, Quebec, and make a profound difference in the lives of animals awaiting their forever homes. This pivotal role involves providing daily care, comfort, and enrichment to a diverse range of animals, from playful puppies and curious kittens to more mature dogs and cats, and occasionally other small domestic animals. We’re looking for an individual with a genuine love for animals, exceptional attention to detail, and a strong work ethic to ensure our shelter maintains a clean, safe, and stimulating environment for all residents.
As an Animal Shelter Assistant, you will be on the front lines, directly interacting with our animals, monitoring their health, and assisting with their well-being needs. This isn’t just a job; it’s a calling for those who want to dedicate their energy to advocating for voiceless creatures and supporting their journey to adoption. You’ll be part of a supportive and dedicated team that values teamwork, empathy, and a proactive approach to animal care. Beyond the essential tasks, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in vital behavioral enrichment activities, helping shy animals come out of their shell and energetic ones find constructive outlets. This direct engagement significantly contributes to their adoptability and overall quality of life during their stay with us. If you are eager to contribute to a cause that truly matters and possess the resilience to handle both the joys and challenges of working in an animal shelter, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the unique opportunity to learn extensively about animal behavior, health, and welfare, all while contributing to a vital community service in Laval. We are committed to professional development and providing a rewarding experience for all our staff, ensuring you feel valued and impactful every single day.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide daily care for animals, including feeding, watering, and administering medications as directed by veterinary staff.
- Clean and sanitize animal enclosures, common areas, and food preparation spaces to maintain a hygienic environment.
- Monitor animals for signs of illness, injury, or distress, and report any concerns promptly to senior staff or veterinarians.
- Assist with animal intake procedures, including basic health checks, vaccinations, and microchipping.
- Socialize and exercise animals through walks, play sessions, and gentle handling to promote their physical and mental well-being.
- Assist potential adopters with meet-and-greets, providing information about animals and facilitating positive interactions.
- Maintain accurate records of animal care, including feeding schedules, medical treatments, and behavioral observations.
- Perform general shelter maintenance tasks, such as laundry, restocking supplies, and organizing storage areas.
- Adhere strictly to all shelter protocols and safety guidelines to ensure the welfare of animals and staff.
- Assist with animal transport to and from veterinary appointments or adoption events as needed.
Required Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of 6 months of experience working with animals (volunteer or paid) in a shelter, veterinary clinic, or similar environment.
- Demonstrated passion for animal welfare and a strong commitment to their humane treatment.
- Ability to handle animals of varying temperaments, sizes, and breeds safely and compassionately.
- Excellent observational skills to detect changes in animal behavior or health.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for interacting with colleagues, volunteers, and the public.
- Ability to perform physically demanding tasks, including lifting up to 50 lbs, bending, standing for long periods, and working in various weather conditions.
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays.
Preferred Qualifications
- Certification in Animal Care, Veterinary Assistant program, or related field.
- Experience with animal behavior assessment and basic training techniques.
- Knowledge of common animal diseases and preventative care.
- Proficiency in both English and French (bilingualism is an asset).
- Valid Quebec driver's license with a clean driving record.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with opportunities for growth.
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits package (for full-time employees).
- Paid time off and holiday pay.
- Employee assistance program.
- Opportunities for professional development and animal care training.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment dedicated to animal welfare.
- The immense satisfaction of making a real difference in the lives of animals daily.
How to Apply
Ready to turn your passion for animals into a rewarding career? We invite dedicated and compassionate individuals to join our team. Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you are the ideal candidate for this Animal Shelter Assistant position.
