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The Global Insight

How much do kennel cleaners make?

Author

Mia Phillips

Updated on March 20, 2026

How Much Do Kennel Assistant Jobs Pay per Hour?

Annual SalaryHourly Wage
Top Earners$26,000$12
75th Percentile$23,500$11
Average$21,242$10
25th Percentile$18,000$9

What does a vet kennel assistant do?

The Kennel Assistant functions include, but are not limited to, providing the care and basic needs of animals being groomed, boarded or that are patients of Companion Animal Hospital, including cleaning of cages and runs and ward areas and the proper feeding and care of all boarding and hospitalized animals.

What do you call someone who works at a kennel?

Kennel assistants, also known as kennel attendants, are entry-level workers who provide basic animal care in environments where animals are caged.

What does a kennel maid do for a living?

Kennel/cattery workers care for dogs and cats in kennels/catteries. You will need to be confident in handling animals and be able to cope with the physical demands of the job, such as cleaning out kennels and cat pens and walking dogs. Your day-to-day work could include: Preparing food and feeding.

What should I wear to a kennel assistant interview?

A t-shirt – no problem – stay away from labels or profanity. This is a dog daycare – don’t over-dress, but don’t look like a slob. If you’re not sure, go “business casual” – nice pants, nice top, but don’t look like you want to be the branch manager of a bank. The general rule is to dress for the role.

What do vets use to sterilize?

Most veterinary practices employ steam sterilization—using gravity displacement autoclaves—as the predominant sterilization method. All instruments should be thoroughly cleaned, lubricated, and properly packaged prior to steam sterilization.

What do vets use to disinfect?

Alcohols are one of the most popular antiseptic and disinfecting products, used every day in veterinary clinics and laboratories. Although many alcohols are germicidal, the two most commonly used as disinfecting agents are ethyl and isopropyl alcohol. These compounds are both lipid solvents and protein denaturants.

What skills do you need to work in a kennel?

A kennel worker should:

  • Know a lot about the care of small pets.
  • Be caring and patient.
  • Be reliable and able to act on their own initiative.
  • Be able to calm anxious and nervous animals.
  • Have stamina and fitness for physical tasks.
  • Be practical and prepared to deal with dirt and waste.
  • Have good communication skills.

What qualifications do I need to be a kennel assistant?

Qualifications and training

  • Level 2 Diploma in Animal Care.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Animal Management.
  • Level 1 Diploma in Work-based Animal Care.
  • Level 2 Diploma in Work-based Animal Care.

    Where do you work as a kennel attendant?

    Kennel attendants work in pet care centers, animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal hospitals. They provide a clean, organized, and healthy environment for animals being treated or housed at a facility.

    What do you need to know about cleaning veterinary rooms?

    As with the exam room table, always disinfect the treatment table, radiology table, lab bench, and any equipment that was used in the room. If your clinic doesn’t have kennel attendants, you may also be tasked with cleaning the kennels and cages. You need to know exactly what kind of animals are in here.

    What should I do to clean my dog’s cage?

    Additionally, you’ll need to take out any items in the kennel or cage to properly clean the unit. Some of the items you take out, like toys, blankets, beds, litterboxes, and food and water dishes, will need to be washed, cleaned, and laundered as necessary. And as usual, always sweep and mop the kennel and cage areas as well.

    How many hours does a kennel assistant work?

    Kennel assistants are typically on their feet for six to eight hours at a time and may have to lift larger breeds of animals