Animal Behaviour and Enrichment Facilitator

The Animal Behaviour and Enrichment Facilitator ensures every shelter animal receives individualized behavioural support grounded in science-based analysis and humane care. They focus on increasing adoptability, reducing shelter stay duration, and guiding staff, volunteers, and foster parents in implementing behaviour plans. They collaborate across departments to assess behavioural challenges, mitigate risks, and, when necessary, make compassionate euthanasia recommendations.

Reporting to: Manager of Behaviour

Core Responsibilities

Behaviour Assessment & Pathway Planning

• Gather and summarize behavioural history from owners or other sources; conduct socialization sessions if needed.
• Identify risks, concerns, and training opportunities to improve adoptability.
• Consistently assess and document animal body language, stress levels, and emotional states.
• Develop structured, measurable plans to mitigate risks and improve each animal’s skill set.
• Provide enrichment suitable for developmental needs.
• Assign training/enrichment tasks to Animal Care Staff, Behaviour Buddy volunteers, and Foster Parents.

Safe Handling & Plan Execution

• Ensure safe human-animal interactions by recognizing stress and enforcing proper handling techniques.
• Act as a handler or observer during medical exams as required.
• Support staff, volunteers, and foster parents in executing behaviour and stress-reduction plans.
• Monitor animal progress, adjusting plans to optimize outcomes.

Communication & Documentation

• Maintain accurate records of behavioural history, observations, and training plans in the shelter database.
• Collaborate with relevant teams (Foster, Adoption, Animal Care, Animal Health) to align plans.
• Provide behaviour assessments and recommendations to the Manager of Behaviour.
• Educate adopters about an animal’s needs, training plans, and post-adoption recommendations.

Training & Education

• Train staff, volunteers, and foster parents on behaviour management, body language, and safe handling.
• Respond to behaviour-related inquiries from the public.
• Identify and recommend post-adoption training resources.
• Performing behavioral consultations to adopters and members of the public.

Program Development & Resource Management

• Design and implement individualized behaviour management and stress reduction plans.
• Develop and maintain resources to ensure consistent application of behaviour protocols.

Core Competencies

• Strong understanding of animal behaviour science and humane, evidence-based training methods that minimize stress and promote animal well-being
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Exceptional communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
• Objective and data-driven approach, particularly in euthanasia decision-making.
• Ability to remain adaptable and composed in emotionally difficult situations.

Position Requirements

• KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA or IAABC accreditation (preferred).
• Training approaches that align with CHS’ position statements and prioritize humane, evidence-based methods that minimize stress and promote animal well-being.
• Minimum high school diploma.
• At least one year of hands-on animal care experience (e.g., veterinary clinic, shelter, boarding facility).
• Proficiency in interpreting and analyzing animal behaviour.
• Public speaking confidence and strong conflict management skills.
• Intermediate Microsoft Office skills.
• Valid Class 5 Driver’s License with a clean abstract and a minimum of three years’ driving experience.
• Ability to pass a police information check (arranged by CHS at the candidate’s expense).

Physical Requirements

• Comfortable handling various species, including cats, dogs, rabbits, birds, rodents, and reptiles.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform repetitive motions such as sitting, standing, walking, reaching, lifting, squatting, bending, and pulling.

Benefits and Perks:

• 100% employer paid health and dental benefits for employees and their dependents 
• Wellness Spending Account. 
• Vision coverage. 
• Paid vacation, sick time, wellness days, flex days, and paid day off on your birthday. 
• Professional development opportunities. 
• Casual dress code. 
• Discounts on CHS products and services, including adoption fees. 
• Access to Employee and Family Assistance Program.

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