Dog Behaviourist

2 weeks ago

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa The Gem Project Full time

Position Title:

Dog Behaviourist

Department:

Dog Sanctuary

Reports to:

Sanctuary Manager

Direct Reports:

Dog handlers / Dog Carers
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GENERAL ROLE DESCRIPTION_
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ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES AND TYPICAL ACTIVITIES_

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Develop training programs and husbandry procedures to improve the welfare of the dogs at the sanctuary.
  • Teach staff and volunteers how to train their pets using positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Develop environmental enrichment programs that encourage natural animal behaviours and integration of dogs.
  • Have good knowledge and understanding of nutrition, social interaction, and environment on animal behaviour.
  • Collaborate with veterinarians, animal care staff, and other professionals to solve medical and behavioural problems.
  • Train staff, volunteers and youth in animal behaviour methods
  • Advise sanctuary manager on further environment enrichment protocols and processes that could benefit the animals and staff.
  • Work with animal shelters to find homes for pets.
  • Taking dogs on offsite visits to beaches and dog parks weekly
  • Implement integration schedules and plans for dogs.
  • Oversee and supervise all exercise activities on and off site.
  • Oversee and supervise all behaviour observations and mitigate any behaviour issues.
  • Oversee and supervise all groups of dogs based on temperament and interaction.
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POSITION CHARACTERISTICS_

Required Skills and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in animal behaviour, psychology, or related field
  • 5+ years professional experience working with animals.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
  • Aptitude for learning new software and systems.
  • Ability to delegate tasks and supervise a team
  • Must be flexible and adaptable to different scenarios
  • Understanding of animal therapy concepts and interventions
  • Excellent planning and organizational skills
  • Excellent problemsolving skills
  • Experience with dog training and dog handling
  • Excellent English written and oral communication skills
  • Excellent computer skills
  • Must have a valid driver's license and minimum of 5 years driving experience
  • Must be familiar with Cape Town and surrounding areas
  • Must be familiar with other animal organisations in the Cape Town area
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MUST LOVE DOGS
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WORK SCHEDULE_

Work Schedule requirement

  • You will be required to work on a shift schedule.
  • Alternative weekend work is required.
  • Standby duty is required (based on shift schedule)
  • Overnight stays may be required overnight accommodation will be provided as and when needed.
  • A competitive market related salary will be offered based on qualifications and experience. Shortlisted applicants will be expected to undergo a panel interview and will be required to undergo a practical training assessment. _

Language:

- , read and write English proficiently (required)

License/Certification:
- license for more than five years (required)

Ability to Commute:

  • Cape Town, Western Cape (required)

  • Dog Behaviourist

    2 weeks ago

    Cape Town, South Africa The Gem Project Full time

    **Position Title**: Dog Behaviourist **Department**: Dog Sanctuary **Reports to**: Sanctuary Manager **Direct Reports**: Dog handlers / Dog Carers - **GENERAL ROLE DESCRIPTION**_ - **ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES AND TYPICAL ACTIVITIES**_ **Duties & Responsibilities** - Develop training programs and husbandry procedures to improve the welfare of the dogs at the...