Position Overview:
Functions as an expert on the Lexington Humane Society’s and Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control’s Behavior Program and provides behavioral care to animals in need. Must be 21 years of age or older, have a high school diploma or equivalency, and submit to a background check. Requires a strong commitment to the mission and purpose of LHS and LFACC. This is a non-exempt position reporting to the Manager of Animal Welfare.
Key Accountabilities:
- Behavior Program
- Prioritizes compassionate and humane treatment of animals
- Provides support and assistance for behaviorally challenged animals in shelter and foster homes
- Implements and oversees behavior modification plans for animals in the shelter and in foster care
- Uses positive reinforcement/force-free training methods to perform behavior modification and teach basic obedience
- Assists Vet Tech team with canine behavior assessments to determine pathways for behavior modification, enrichment, or behavioral euthanasia
- Provides training to staff, volunteers, and foster parents regarding proper handling and recommended training techniques
- Engages with LHS/LFACC teams to increase use and understanding of the FAS (Fear-Anxiety-Stress) Scale
- Manages and grows LHS’s specialized canine training and enrichment program
- Performs post-adoption follow-up calls and provides adopters with tools to aid in pet retention
- Assists in recruiting, nurturing, and educating volunteer behavior caregivers and serves as primary contact
- Maintains and enhances volunteer communication and updates through email and telephone
- Partners and collaborates effectively with other departments as necessary
- Communicates escalated issues to Manager of Animal Welfare as necessary
- Documents the daily progress of animals on behavior modification plans
- Completes timely, accurate, appropriate data entry into Shelter Buddy
- Ensures behavioral records for animals in care are accessible, current, and accurate
- Maintains appropriate volunteer records and database information
- Stocks necessary supplies and organizes supplies for care and use
- Ensures an inclusive, consistent, and respectful working environment
- Upholds LHS/LFACC mission and values during interactions with the public and volunteers
- Maintains company equipment with care and respect
- Manages an efficient, effective, and prudent program within a narrow nonprofit budget
- Completes all activities consistent with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)