Join the Team at Lucky Dog Refuge
This job isn’t easy, and it isn’t glamorous every day — but you’ll save lives, change dogs’ futures, and feel the reward of that every single day.
Some days are spent cleaning up after poopy puppies, walking 7+ miles in the rain, handling scared or reactive dogs, organizing supplies, loading dogs into cars for vet appointments, or working long hours on your feet in every weather condition imaginable.
But if you are the right person for this role, it will also be the most rewarding work of your life.
At Lucky Dog Refuge, you will save lives daily. You will help dogs who came from abuse, neglect, abandonment, medical crises, or unimaginable circumstances learn what love feels like for the very first time. You will watch terrified dogs transform into happy, confident companions. You will witness fairytale endings in real time. And in return, you will receive the kind of unconditional love and gratitude that only rescue dogs can give.
Rescue is not a job for people looking for “easy.”
It is for people looking for purpose.
Responsibilities
- Safely handle dogs of all sizes, temperaments, and energy levels
- Walk dogs extensively (often 7–8+ miles per shift)
- Supervise and manage group dog play
- Assist with dog introductions
- Transport dogs to veterinary appointments and other rescue-related errands
- Clean, sanitize, organize, and maintain the facility
- Work outdoors in all weather conditions
- Engage positively with volunteers, adopters, and the public
- Work collaboratively with a fast-paced, highly team-oriented staff
Requirements
- MUST LOVE DOGS
- Prior dog handling experience, including difficult/reactive dogs
- Comfortable multitasking in a fast-paced environment
- Valid driver’s license
- Willingness to jump in and “do it all”
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Comfortable speaking with and engaging people
- Group play experience required
- Dog introduction experience helpful but not required
- Leadership or management experience preferred
- Weekend and holiday availability required
- 18 years of age or older
Schedule & Commitment
Lucky Dog Refuge operates 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our rescue operates approximately 91 hours per week, and shifts are typically:
- 7:00 AM–2:00 PM
- or
- 1:00 PM–8:00 PM
Because this job takes a lot of training, consistency, and time for the dogs to build trust with staff, we’re looking for people interested in a long-term role. This is not a good fit for someone looking for short-term or seasonal work between jobs or school semesters.
Compensation
Pay will be evaluated based on experience.
As a nonprofit rescue, our payroll budget is more limited than many for-profit companies, but we do our best to offer competitive wages within the local dog care industry.
About Lucky Dog Refuge
Lucky Dog Refuge is a based in Stamford, CT dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming dogs most in need. We are a fast-paced, hands-on rescue that operates 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Our team is deeply committed to giving dogs a safe, loving environment while helping them prepare for their forever homes. Employees play a direct role in saving lives and making a meaningful difference every single day.
If you are hardworking, compassionate, resilient, team-oriented, and passionate about changing dogs’ lives, we would love to hear from you.
Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour
Experience:
- professional dog handling: 2 years (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
