Apprentice Pet Care Assistant

Duties allocated according to age, training and supervision requirements.

• Dog Walking
• Support supervised play sessions and provide enrichment activities
• Clean kennels, animal accommodation and communal areas, following hygiene procedures
• Wash, dry and organise animal bedding and other laundry
• Check and refresh drinking water
• Support the care and welfare of cats and small animals, including rabbits and rats, when housed on site.
• Observe animals’ behaviour and wellbeing, reporting any concerns to the team
• Learn and follow the traffic light system used to identify animals’ handling and behaviour needs
• Gradually develop customer service skills, including welcoming customers and assisting with the booking-in system

Apprentices aged 18 and over will also have opportunities, following appropriate training and under supervision, to:

• Take a more hands-on role in behaviour training
• Prepare and provide feeds according to individual animals’ requirements
• Assist with administering medication, following instructions and workplace procedures

Training will take place at Bishop Burton College, typically one day per week, where you will complete your off-the-job training. You will spend the remaining four days in the workplace, developing practical skills and gaining hands-on experience.

On successful completion of the apprenticeship, there may be an opportunity to progress onto a Level 3 apprenticeship and further develop your animal care skills. You may also be offered a permanent, full-time role as a qualified member of the team, with pay reflecting your role and responsibilities. Progression will depend on your performance and the needs of the business.

Much of this role involves working outdoors in all weather conditions and throughout the seasons. It is physically demanding, with long periods on your feet, dog walking and practical animal care duties.

A significant part of each day involves cleaning kennels, washing bedding and maintaining high standards of hygiene. You must be comfortable working around animal waste, noise and strong smells, and following safety procedures when handling animals with different temperaments. Patience, reliability and a willingness to complete routine cleaning tasks are essential.

The business is based on Tranby Lane, Swanland, and is not well connected to public transport, so you will need to plan reliable travel to and from work.

Paid annual leave and statutory sick pay in line with statutory entitlements and eligibility.

Staff discount on retail items.

Free day care for your own animals, subject to availability and approval from senior management.

Uniform provided.

Home From Home Pet Care is a family-run business based in Swanland, East Yorkshire, providing animal care since 1992. Services include boarding for dogs, cats and small animals, alongside dog day care, grooming, training and pet supplies. The team focuses on providing a safe, comfortable environment, with care and activities tailored to each animal’s individual needs.

We offer a great starting point for anyone looking to build a career in animal care, with a wealth of experience to share. You will join a supportive team with a strong team spirit, where colleagues work together and help each other develop. We value our staff and recognise their contribution, including organising staff events twice a year.