Best Paw Forward is looking for an individual who has an interest in animal training and/or behavior. The individual should agree with Best Paw Forward’s mission statement which focuses on helping families to live in harmony with their canine companions while providing practical and positive dog training and behavior solutions. From raising puppies to be stellar companions to modifying aggressive or troubling behavior, we help families have the knowledge and resources to be able to keep their pets longer and lead happier lives together.
The ideal candidate will have previous experience with dogs and/ or animal training and be enrolled or completed an animal sciences or professional certification program. Our unique internship will provide students with hands-on dog training techniques and skills for basic obedience and trouble shooting problem behaviors. The individual will help gather videos and photos of dogs to aid in learning more about dog behavior and why it might be presented. These videos and photos will also be used to further the education of Best Paw Forward clientele.
At the end of the internship the candidate will give a small write up on the things they have learned throughout their time here. An exit interview will be given upon the completion of the program.
Qualifications:
- 18+ years of age
- Adherence to dress code (long pants or appropriate length shorts in hot temperatures, closed toed shoes, etc.) and other safety protocols
- School program related to animal sciences or professional certification program.
- Desire to learn about animal training and/or behavior
- Enthusiasm for learning and a positive attitude
Responsibilities:
- Daily husbandry needs including, but not limited to cleaning and changing water bowls, feeding dogs, potty breaks and walks.
- Cleaning kennels, training spaces and enrichment items
- Assist with daily training sessions with our Board and Train and Day Train dogs
- Assist with puppy and adolescent play/ interactions
- Implement enrichment programs and protocols to stimulate and maintain mental and physical needs of the dog.
This is an unpaid internship for experience and learning towards becoming an animal training professional.
This role primarily involves assisting with exercise and training sessions for dogs under our care as well as maintaining the cleanliness of kennels and common areas.
The ideal candidate should be passionate about the care of dogs, organized, and able to contribute to a positive and safe environment for both the animals and our clients. Must be able to walk and control dogs up to 100lbs on leash.
Key Responsibilities:
- Participate in dog exercise routines, including walks, playtime.
- Collaborate with the training team to support training sessions, following established protocols and providing positive reinforcement to dogs.
- Interact with clients in a friendly and professional manner at drop off and pick up.
- Maintain accurate records of dogs’ activities and behaviors.
- Monitor dogs’ behavior and health, reporting any changes or concerns to senior staff promptly.
- Ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of dog kennels, common areas, and equipment to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for the dogs.
- Assist in feeding, watering, and administering medication to dogs according to their individual needs and schedules.
- Provide basic grooming tasks such as brushing, bathing, and nail trimming as needed.
Qualifications:
- At least 18 years old with reliable transportation
- Previous experience caring for dogs in a kennel, daycare, shelter, or training environment is preferred.
- Understanding of dog behavior and body language is a plus but we will train.
- Physical ability to handle dogs of varying sizes (up to 100lbs) and energy levels, and perform tasks such as cleaning, lifting, and walking.
- Strong communication skills and a friendly demeanor when interacting with clients, colleagues, and dogs.
- Ability to follow instructions, protocols, and safety guidelines closely.
- Reliable, punctual, and capable of managing time effectively.
- High level of patience, compassion, and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working in all weather conditions and performing physically demanding tasks.
- Knowledge of basic canine first aid and CPR is a plus.
Work Schedule:
This is a part-time position either mornings (6:30am – 10:30am) or afternoons (2:00pm – 6:00pm), including occasional weekends or holidays as needed.
We are seeking a dedicated and enthusiastic Part-Time Dog Training Assistant to join our team. This role primarily involves assisting with exercise and training sessions for dogs under our care as well as maintaining the cleanliness of kennels and common areas.
The ideal candidate should be passionate about working with dogs, organized, and able to contribute to a positive and safe environment for both the animals and our clients.
Key Responsibilities:
- Participate in dog exercise routines, including walks, playtime, and structured training sessions.
- Collaborate with the training team to support training sessions, following established protocols and providing positive reinforcement to dogs.
- Interact with clients in a friendly and professional manner.
- Maintain accurate records of dogs’ activities, behaviors, and progress in training.
- Monitor dogs’ behavior and health, reporting any changes or concerns to senior staff promptly.
- Ensure the cleanliness and sanitation of dog kennels, common areas, and equipment to maintain a safe and comfortable environment for the dogs.
- Assist in feeding, watering, and administering medication to dogs according to their individual needs and schedules.
- Provide basic grooming tasks such as brushing, bathing, and nail trimming as needed.
Qualifications:
- Previous experience working with dogs in a kennel, shelter, or training environment is preferred.
- Understanding of dog behavior and body language is a plus but we will train.
- Physical ability to handle dogs of varying sizes and energy levels, and perform tasks such as cleaning, lifting, and walking.
- Strong communication skills and a friendly demeanor when interacting with clients, colleagues, and dogs.
- Ability to follow instructions, protocols, and safety guidelines closely.
- Reliable, punctual, and capable of managing time effectively.
- High level of patience, compassion, and attention to detail.
- Comfortable working in all weather conditions and performing physically demanding tasks.
- Knowledge of basic canine first aid and CPR is a plus.
Work Schedule:
This is a part-time position requiring flexible availability, including some weekends and holidays, as well as the ability to work morning and/or afternoon shifts.
Join our team and make a meaningful impact in the lives of dogs and their owners while contributing to a clean, safe, and enriching environment for our furry companions.
Best Paw Forward provides dog training and behavior services to clients in Perkasie PA and the surrounding areas through private lessons, group classes, day school and board & train programs.
Best Paw Forward values honesty, reliability and above all else, excellent customer service.
The role of dog trainer works directly with clients through group classes and private lessons to teach owners new skills with their puppies and dogs. This is done while upholding the high ethical and moral standards of Best Paw Forward while helping dog owners to better understand and communicate with their dog to improve the dog’s behavior.
Skills/Qualifications:
- Minimum of 1 year of professional experience providing dog training instruction to people (private lessons and/or group classes)
- Professional Certification or working toward certification
- Reliable Transportation & Punctuality with a valid Driver’s License
- Excellent communication skills with peers and clients
- Ability to work with and teach people as well as dogs
- Ability to make good decisions quickly while displaying patience and adaptability
Responsibilities:
- Conduct private lessons independently in clients’ homes, at our location or in public areas with confidence, skill and proficiency
- Communicate with clients regarding training questions and appointments
- Assess behavior, develop training plan and successfully deliver results to clients
- Assist with training sessions of board and train/day school dogs and transfer sessions
- Conduct Group Classes independently
Schedule:
Flexible schedule with ability to make own hours. Recommended availability of minimum 2 evenings per week.
Travel within 30 minutes of Perkasie, PA is required. Evenings required at least twice a week, weekends optional
Pay to commiserate with experience and will be base hourly rate plus commission with bonus opportunities.