Canine Hydrotherapy Coach & Rehab Assistant (Part-Time), Temporary (Through Spring 2027 with potential for future opportunities)
Augusta K9 Center | Staunton, VA
Augusta K9 Center is seeking a qualified, energetic candidate for a dual Canine Hydrotherapy Coach & Rehab Assistant position. This role is integral to maintaining the daily flow of our facility by delivering high-quality canine care, supporting therapy and fitness sessions, and providing exceptional customer service. We are looking for someone who communicates clearly, works with integrity, and brings positive energy to our team and clients daily.
Role Overview
This is a hands-on position combining hydrotherapy session coaching with hands-on rehabilitation assistance. The ideal candidate understands canine needs across all life stages—from high-energy working and performance dogs (dock diving, agility) to seniors and rehabilitation patients requiring low-impact conditioning.
You will conduct fitness and swim sessions, directly assist with clinical rehabilitation appointments, and ensure facility cleanliness and pool safety.
Key Responsibilities
- Session Leadership: Lead canine hydrotherapy and fitness sessions using superb handling and client communication.
- Rehabilitation Support: Actively assist in canine rehabilitation sessions, supporting patient handling, setup, and therapy execution.
- Age & Life-Stage Tailored Care: Understand and assess each canine's age, medical history, and diagnosis to ensure swim times and exercises are safe and appropriate.
- Safety & Behavior Monitoring: Observe each dog closely for signs of fatigue, pain, stress, or changes in comfort.
- Record Keeping & Admin: Maintain accurate patient session notes, weight loss and conditioning records, and client billing/bundle tracking. Assist with calls, emails, and client scheduling as needed.
- Facility & Water Maintenance: Monitor pool water balance to ensure it remains clean and safe. Maintain equipment and participate in facility opening/closing duties and routine deep cleans.
Qualifications & Physical Requirements
- Experience: Minimum 1–2 years of professional employment working with dogs or in an animal care/veterinary environment.
- Skills: Solid understanding of canine body language, behavior across all ages, and handling techniques. Background or strong interest in agility, dock diving, working dogs, or physical rehab is a plus.
- Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and move freely in and around the pool to support dogs during sessions.
Schedule & Compensation
- Position Type: Part-Time: Temporary (Through Spring 2027 with potential for future opportunities)
- Schedule: Tuesday & Wednesday, 2–3 Saturdays per month
- Starting Pay: $15.00- $16.50/ hour (based on experience)
- Benefits: Employee discounts and competitive benefits.
How to ApplyTo be considered for this dual role, please submit both a resume and a letter detailing your experience with dogs, your interest in hydrotherapy/rehab, and why you are a great fit for our team.
- Hiring Manager: Amanda Hardy
- Email: [email protected]
- Subject Line: Hydro Coach & Rehab Assistant Application - [Your Name]
Pay: $15.00 - $16.50 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person