Dog Handler/Dog Walker

Dog Care Specialist

Prodigy Puppy — Upper East Side, Upper West Side & Long Island City

Overview

Details

Role Title

Dog Care Specialist

Commitment

Part-Time/Full Time (3–5 days per week)

Shift Length

4–7 hours per shift

Service Territory

Upper East Side, select parts of Upper West Side & Long Island City

Schedule Note

Weekend availability required (Saturday & Sunday)

About Prodigy Puppy

Prodigy Puppy is a fast-growing boutique dog walking company and concierge servicing the Upper East Side of Manhattan, as well as select parts of the Upper West Side and Long Island City.

We are a small, tight-knit team of dog lovers and creatives. Our loyal clients value loving, personal care for their pets. We invest heavily in our people so that our clients feel confident knowing their dogs are receiving the best care possible.

Position Summary

We are currently seeking a Dog Care Specialist to join our growing team. Our ideal candidate is reliable, punctual, fun, loving, outgoing, logical, communicative, and active.

We provide flexibility when it comes to your schedule, but we also expect flexibility on your end, as schedules change on a weekly basis.

Schedule & Availability Requirements

• Weekly Commitment: 3–5 days per week.
• Shift Duration: 4–7 hours per shift.
• Weekend Work: Must be available for short shifts on both Saturday and Sunday.
• Note: We do not offer weekend-only schedules.

Key Responsibilities

• Dog Walking: Conduct individual or small group walks (up to 2–4 dogs at a time).
• Personalized Care: Ensure each dog's customized care routine and needs are met during and after every walk.
• Client Reports: Send daily email updates to clients regarding their dog's activity level and behavior, including photos and/or videos.
• Team Communication: Maintain active daily communication with the team regarding schedule updates and logistics.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Passion for Animals: Must love dogs and have a passion for working with dogs of all shapes, sizes, and breeds.
• Cat Care Interest: Interest in cat care is a plus!
• Experience: Previous experience in animal care or related fields is strongly preferred.
• Tech Requirements: Must own a smartphone with an active data plan.
• Temperament: Ability to interact with animals in a calm, confident manner.
• Work Ethic: Ability to work independently while remaining a supportive team player.
• Communication: Strong communication and time management skills are essential.

Operational Requirements

• Minimum Commitment: Ready to commit to a minimum of 7 months.
• All-Weather Capability: Willingness to work outside in ALL types of weather. Dog care is fun, but physically demanding!
• Background Check: Must submit to a background check.
• Work Authorization: Required work authorization in the United States.

Preferred Priority Candidates

• Candidates who are willing and available to do in-home overnight care/boarding during popular holidays and are available to work short shifts on weekends will be given priority consideration.

Compensation & Benefits

• Paid Training: Includes professional Pet First Aid & CPR certification.
• Provided Gear: Company supplies all required tools (leashes, wipes, poop bags, treats, etc.).
• Additional Income: Option to perform overnight care and holiday boarding for clients.
• Community Connection: We are active in the NYC animal rescue and non-profit community. If you are passionate about animal welfare, we would love to connect you with our partner organizations!

How to Apply

Please submit a brief cover letter alongside your resume.

In your cover letter, please tell us more about YOU and your specific weekly availability!

Please note: Resumes submitted without a cover letter will not be considered.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract

Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Referral program

Application Question(s):

• Were you vaccinated during the COVID-19 pandemic and are able to show proof?
• Did you include a cover letter with your application? We will automatically reject resumes without one.

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

• Dog handling: 1 year (Required)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• New York, NY 10075 (Required)

Work Location: In person