We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Dog Care Supervisor to join a well-known not-for-profit organisation based here in Cork. Reporting to the Dog Care and Breeding Manager, this role will support on recruitment, training, and management of volunteers and day-to-day operations of the Dog Care and Welfare Team to ensure the mental and physical welfare needs of dogs in training are being met.
This a full-time, permanent role that requires local and national travel, and will suit someone with a background in dog handling, veterinary nursing or animal welfare.
Hours: 37.5 with flexibility to work weekends.
Key Responsibilities:
Recruit, train, mentor, and coach the Dog Care and Welfare team to ensure high-quality care and effective staff onboarding and training.
Ensure the five welfare domains are met for all dogs (nutrition, environment, health, mental state, behaviour).
Conduct regular performance management and staff training activities within the team.
Provide expertise and knowledge in relation to diagnosis and treatment of the dogs, ensuring timely medical interventions via external veterinary partners.
Identify and address temperamental or behavioual issues in dogs, collaborating with staff to implement modification plans.
Maintain and improve welfare standards through robust cleaning protocols, disease control, and regular process evaluations.
Manage logistics, rostering, stock, and supplies and oversee accurate record-keeping.
Provide scheduled welfare and operational reports to management, and document incidents in line with health and safety policies.
Prepare dogs for training programs, support interdepartmental training, and contribute to broader organisational needs as required.
Propose and implement changes to improve departmental efficiency, infection control, and overall welfare outcomes.
Requirements:
Veterinary nursing or animal care qualification and experience.
Experience supporting canine welfare and a good working knowledge of up-to-date ethics and practises.
Excellent people management skills, including coaching and teaching.
Resilient, optimistic and positive attitude.
Experience working with service dogs and their users is desirable.
Full clean driving licence is essential.
You will be required to be on call outside of normal business hours which may include coming on site to deal with any breeding or dog related issues which arise.
For a confidential discussion and more information on the role, please contact Megan O’Doherty
megan.odoherty@collinsmcnicholas.ie
021-491106