Animal Assistant

Job Description

West Yorkshire Police is looking to appoint an Animal Assistant. The appointed candidate will work within the Yorkshire and Humber Region.
The role forms part of team responsible for the daily care and welfare of seized animals (mostly dogs) that are kennelled at the Unit.
Responsibilities will include the regular exercising of the animals, feeding, general cleaning, and maintenance duties at the kennels.
In addition to the recording of information onto a digital system and maintaining digital records, the role will also include monitoring and maintaining accurate stock levels and re-ordering.
Working independently, as well as part of a team, the role requires a reliable, enthusiastic, and motivated individual.
Work can be physically demanding.
The ability and willingness to work flexible hours to suit the demands of the business is a requirement. A 24/7 shift pattern is in operation at the Unit.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead by example and behave in line with the Police Code of Ethics ensuring that the force values and behavioural expectations are clearly understood and considered by managers, officers and staff in their decision making and actions reinforcing and influencing them through all interactions and processes.
• Undertake the welfare of animals/dogs, by ensuring you are updating the daily information board and electronic diaries, and by providing the appropriate exercise, grooming, diet, veterinary referral, and prescribed medication.
• Where necessary be physically capable of restraining dogs and other animals.
• Responsible for providing a clean and hygienic environment for animals/kennelled dogs and staff by maintaining regular routine of inspection and cleaning of kennels, exercise areas, vehicles and staff areas.
• Ability to handle situations by working out problems, coming to the right solution for animals/kennelled dogs and staff.
• Maintain the stocks of food and cleaning material, ensuring accurate stock is recorded and ordered.
• Ensure you have an effective stock rotation system, check that food is in good condition before using.
• Understanding verbal and written instructions for any special diet for animals/kennelled dogs.
• Assist in the process of assessing animals/dogs on arrival, during their stay and their suitability for rehoming ensuring correct paperwork is completed.

Essential and Desirable Skills

• Experience of previously working with dogs.
• Ability to use and maintain digital system/digital records.
• Physically capable of maintaining kennels and surrounding areas.
• Ability to work shift patterns throughout the whole week.
• This role requires ongoing Health Surveillance commencing prior to appointment in line with HSE guidance/legislation.
• Ability to work across the Yorkshire and Humber Region as and when required.

Training Provided

Yes