Job Description

PRIMARY JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Bathers work in the grooming department and complete the following duties: combing dog and cat coats, removing dead skin with a brush, regulating water temperature, washing dogs and cats with special soap or shampoo, drying the dog or cat, clipping toenails, and maintaining the work area clean and organized, able to interact with animals, dexterity, attention to safety, customer service, stamina, and time management.

CONTROLS OVER WORK

The Bather works under the direct supervision of the Groomer and Practice Manager who will indicate general assignments, limitations and priorities.

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE

• Prepare dogs and cats of all sizes and breeds for grooming by following standard procedures of proper bathing, drying, and brushing.
• M aintain cleanliness of bathing area including laundry, floors, supply clean up
• Assist in walking and giving water to animals.
• Adjust bathing methods as needed to accommodate puppies, seniors, recent rescues, and nervous dogs.
• Comply with strict safety procedures and maintain sanitary work station, grooming, tools and kennels.
• Working with a team to efficiently complete tasks
• Maintain bathing areas and animal care equipment.
• Paid close attention to skin allergies, fleas, ticks and sores.
• Assist groomers when needed.

PHYSICAL EFFORT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the primary functions of this job.

• Frequently required to bend, stand, stoop, walk, sit, talk, and listen, frequently working in a bent position.
• Frequently use hands to manipulate, handle, or feel; will reach with hands and arms.
• Use strength or agility in capturing and restraining stronger, more active animals.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 40 pounds.
• Occasionally handle dogs weighing up to and over 150 lbs. Assistance will be provided by another team member when working with larger animals.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is exposed to hazards associated with aggressive pets; hazards associated with infected animals and controlled substances; exposure to unpleasant odors and noises; exposure to bites, scratches and animal wastes; possible exposure to contagious diseases.

Work is normally performed inside; some outside work may be required.

Follow federal and state animal health laws and regulations including OSHA and DEA.