20 Kennel Technician Interview Questions and Answers

If you’re interviewing for a kennel technician job, you’ll need to prepare for questions about your experience working with animals, as well as how you handle difficult situations.

To help you get ready for the big day, we’ve compiled a list of common kennel technician interview questions and tips on how to answer them. Use this guide to practice up—and ace that interview!

1. What experience do you have working with animals?

Working with animals as a kennel technician requires not only knowledge of animal care and behavior, but also a comfort level with them. The interviewer wants to make sure you have the skills and experience to provide quality care for their animals. They’ll likely ask about your past experience working with animals, as well as any certifications or qualifications you may have related to animal care.

How to Answer:

Be prepared to discuss any past experience you have working with animals, such as volunteer work at a local animal shelter or pet store. If you’ve had any formal training related to animal care, such as certifications from an online course or hands-on workshops, be sure to mention those too! Additionally, if you have ever taken on the responsibility of caring for your own pets, this is also something worth mentioning. Finally, don’t forget to highlight any special skills or knowledge you may have that could make you stand out from other applicants, such as knowledge of proper nutrition and dietary needs or expertise in handling difficult behaviors.

Example: “I have several years of experience working with animals, both professionally and personally. I’ve volunteered at a local animal shelter for the past three years, so I am familiar with basic animal care and handling techniques. Additionally, I recently completed an online course on pet nutrition and behavior that has given me a better understanding of how to provide quality care to pets in a kennel setting. Lastly, I have two cats of my own that I regularly take to the vet, groom, and feed—so I understand what it takes to be a responsible pet owner.”

2. Describe your approach to providing care for a variety of different breeds and temperaments.

Pet care is a very specialized job and requires a great deal of knowledge and experience. Your interviewer wants to know that you understand the difference between breeds, temperaments, and behaviors and that you can provide the highest level of care to each pet. They’ll also want to know that you have the ability to stay calm and collected when chaotic situations arise.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should discuss your approach to caring for each pet. Talk about the steps you take to ensure that all of their needs are met. You can also talk about how you build relationships with each pet and how you adjust your care depending on the breed or temperament of the animal. Finally, mention any experience you have in handling difficult or chaotic situations.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with a variety of breeds and temperaments. I understand that each animal is an individual and has different needs and behaviors, so my approach is to first get to know the animals in my care on an individual basis. I like to take time to observe their behavior and look for any signs of aggression or distress before interacting with them. I also use calming techniques such as speaking softly and providing treats to help relax them. If needed, I am prepared to use appropriate safety measures such as muzzles or crates. Above all, I always prioritize the safety of both the animal and myself when handling any situation.”

3. How would you handle an aggressive animal in the kennel?

Working with animals comes with its own set of challenges. The interviewer wants to know that you have an understanding of how to handle animals in your care, particularly when it comes to dealing with aggressive or difficult animals. They want to be sure that you know how to handle the situation safely and effectively while still providing excellent care to the animal.

How to Answer:

Start by discussing your experience with animals, as this will show the interviewer that you have a good understanding of animal behavior. Then explain what steps you would take to handle an aggressive animal in the kennel. For example, you could mention that you would first try to identify the source of the aggression and then use calming techniques such as speaking softly or providing treats to help soothe the animal. You should also mention that you would be prepared to use appropriate safety measures if needed, such as muzzles or crates. Finally, emphasize that you always prioritize the safety of both the animal and yourself when handling any situation.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with animals, and I understand that aggressive behavior can sometimes be a sign of distress. My first approach when dealing with an aggressive animal would be to try to identify the source of its aggression and then use calming techniques such as speaking softly or providing treats to help soothe it. If necessary, I’m also prepared to use appropriate safety measures such as muzzles or crates. Above all, my priority is always the safety of both the animal and myself, and I make sure to take any necessary precautions before intervening.”

4. Explain the importance of proper sanitation and hygiene when caring for animals.

As a kennel technician, you’ll be responsible for the health and well-being of animals in your care. Proper sanitation and hygiene are essential to keeping these animals healthy and happy, and any potential hire needs to understand the importance of these practices. Interviewers want to know that you understand the necessary protocols and can keep the kennel clean and safe for all of its occupants.

How to Answer:

You should explain that proper sanitation and hygiene are essential to prevent the spread of disease, maintain a healthy environment, and ensure that animals in your care remain safe and comfortable. You can also discuss specific protocols you follow when caring for animals, such as cleaning cages regularly, washing hands between handling different animals, and using appropriate disinfectants. Additionally, emphasize how important it is to pay attention to details and be diligent in following these practices.

Example: “Sanitation and hygiene are essential for keeping animals in our care safe and healthy. I always follow a strict protocol when caring for animals, which includes regularly cleaning cages, washing my hands between handling different animals, and using the appropriate disinfectants to prevent the spread of disease. It’s important to pay attention to details and be diligent in following these practices to ensure that all animals in our care remain safe and comfortable.”

5. Are you comfortable administering medications to animals?

This is a great question to find out if the candidate is comfortable with the job’s more technical aspects. Administering medications to animals requires knowledge of how to properly handle the animal, calculate dosage, and ensure the animal is comfortable and safe. It also requires an understanding of the medications and the ability to follow instructions. The interviewer wants to make sure the candidate has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform this task.

How to Answer:

The best way to answer this question is to be honest about your experience. If you have prior experience administering medications to animals, discuss what types of medications you are comfortable with and how you go about ensuring the animal is safe and comfortable during the process. If you don’t have any prior experience, explain that you are willing to learn and are eager to gain more knowledge in this area. You can also mention any other medical-related tasks you may have done in the past such as cleaning wounds or providing first aid.

Example: “I have prior experience administering medications to animals, including oral and topical medications. I understand the importance of calculating dosage correctly and following instructions closely. I also make sure that the animal is comfortable during the process by speaking softly and reassuring them throughout. Additionally, I am confident in my ability to learn quickly and would be eager to gain more knowledge in this area.”

6. Tell me about a time when you had to comfort an anxious or scared animal.

Working with animals can be challenging, especially when they are anxious or scared. It’s important for a kennel technician to know how to handle these emotions effectively and appropriately. By asking this question, the interviewer is looking for evidence that you understand animal behavior, can empathize with their feelings, and can make calm, informed decisions to help the animal feel safe and secure.

How to Answer:

Talk about a specific experience you had when dealing with an anxious or scared animal. Describe the steps you took to make them feel comfortable, such as speaking in a gentle voice, using calming body language, and offering treats or toys. Explain how you were able to calm the animal down and help it adjust to its new environment. Finally, discuss what you learned from the experience and how it has helped you become a better kennel technician.

Example: “I once had to take care of a very scared rescue dog who was adjusting to her new home. I knew she needed some extra attention and comfort, so I made sure to speak in a soft voice and use calming body language when approaching her. I also gave her treats and toys as rewards for being brave. After a few days of gentle coaxing, the dog started to relax and trust me. This experience taught me the importance of being patient and understanding with animals, especially those who are experiencing fear or anxiety. It’s been incredibly helpful in my role as a kennel technician.”

7. What strategies do you use to ensure that all animals are receiving adequate exercise, nutrition, and socialization?

This question helps assess a potential hire’s knowledge of animal care and their ability to think proactively when caring for animals in a kennel environment. The interviewer wants to know that the candidate is aware of the importance of providing a safe and comfortable environment for all animals, as well as how to meet the individual needs of each animal.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should discuss the strategies you use to ensure that all animals in your care are getting the exercise, nutrition, and socialization they need. Talk about how you assess each animal’s individual needs and create a plan for meeting those needs. Discuss any specific techniques or methods you use when providing exercise, nutrition, and socialization to the animals. You can also mention any additional measures you take to ensure their safety and wellbeing, such as monitoring them closely or keeping detailed records of their progress.

Example: “When caring for animals in a kennel environment, I use several strategies to ensure that all animals are receiving adequate exercise, nutrition, and socialization. First, I assess each animal’s individual needs based on their breed, age, and health status. Then, I create a plan for meeting those needs by providing appropriate levels of exercise, feeding them the right type and amount of food, and giving them enough attention and affection. Additionally, I monitor the animals closely throughout the day to make sure they’re getting what they need and address any issues that arise. Finally, I keep detailed records of each animal’s progress so that I can track their wellbeing over time.”

8. How do you handle difficult situations such as barking dogs or fights between animals?

Working in a kennel can be stressful, as there are often numerous animals with different needs and personalities in one space. Being able to handle difficult situations, such as a fight between two animals or a dog that won’t stop barking, is a valuable skill that could help you succeed in this role. The interviewer is looking for evidence that you have the right temperament to handle the job and won’t be overwhelmed by the stress and chaos of the job.

How to Answer:

You should come prepared to answer this question with a few examples of how you have handled difficult situations in the past. For example, if you have ever had to break up a fight between two animals, talk about the steps you took to calm them down and separate them. If you have experience dealing with barking dogs, discuss strategies such as providing toys or treats to distract the dog from barking or playing calming music in the kennel. Be sure to also emphasize your ability to stay calm and composed even in stressful situations.

Example: “I have a lot of experience handling difficult situations, such as barking dogs or fights between animals. I’ve found that the key to diffusing these situations is to stay calm and composed. I always try to assess the situation and determine the root cause of the issue. For example, if a dog is barking, I try to figure out why – if it’s boredom, I’ll give them a toy or treat to distract them; if it’s anxiety, I’ll talk to them in a calming voice and try to reassure them. If there is a fight between animals, I will try to separate them and give them space to cool off. I also have experience training dogs and teaching them better behaviors to prevent future issues.”

9. Do you have any experience training animals? If so, what methods do you prefer?

Working with animals requires patience and knowledge of training techniques. If you’re applying for a job as a kennel technician, the interviewer wants to know that you have experience and success in training animals. They may also be curious to know which methods you prefer, as this can give them an idea of how you would handle specific training scenarios.

How to Answer:

If you have experience training animals, talk about the methods that you’ve used in the past and how successful they were. If you don’t have any formal training experience, mention any informal experiences you’ve had with pets or other animals. Talk about what methods you would use if given the opportunity to train an animal and why you think those methods are effective. Be sure to emphasize your patience and understanding of animals when answering this question.

Example: “I have had formal and informal experience in training animals. In my previous role, I was responsible for training puppies for basic obedience. I used positive reinforcement methods such as clicker training and reward-based training, as I have found these to be the most effective in producing lasting results. I also believe that consistency and patience are key when working with animals, and I strive to be mindful of the individual needs and personalities of each animal when training them.”

10. What is your experience with grooming animals?

Grooming animals is a key part of the job of a kennel technician. In order to keep the kennel clean and the animals healthy, grooming is essential. They will want to make sure you have the right skills and experience to be able to do this job properly. They will also want to know if you have any specialties or certifications that could be beneficial in this role.

How to Answer:

Start by talking about any certifications or specialties you have in grooming animals. If you don’t have any, talk about your experience with grooming animals. Talk about the types of animals you have groomed and what techniques you used to make them look their best. Make sure to emphasize that you understand the importance of keeping the kennel clean and the animals healthy. Finally, mention any additional skills or knowledge you may have related to animal care that could be beneficial in this role.

Example: “I have two years of experience grooming cats and dogs. I have experience with a variety of breeds and I am familiar with the different grooming techniques for each. I have taken the time to learn the proper handling techniques for different animals and I understand the importance of keeping the kennel clean and the animals healthy. I also have basic knowledge of animal nutrition and first aid that I believe could be beneficial in this role.”

11. How do you handle pet owners who are worried about leaving their pets in the kennel?

Dealing with pet owners is a big part of being a kennel technician. Many pet owners can be anxious about leaving their pets in the kennel, and the interviewer wants to know that you can handle those conversations in a compassionate, understanding way. They want to know that you’re not just focused on the technical aspects of the job, but that you also understand the emotional side of it as well.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you’ll want to talk about how you would handle a pet owner who is worried about leaving their pet in the kennel. You should emphasize your ability to empathize and reassure them that their pet will be well taken care of while they are away. Talk about any experience you have with calming anxious pet owners or providing comfort during difficult times. You can also mention any additional services that the kennel offers, such as daily check-ins via text message or video, that could help ease the pet owner’s worries.

Example: “I understand how difficult it can be to leave a pet in the care of someone else, and I’m very sensitive to the feelings of pet owners. I always take the time to listen to their concerns and let them know that I will take great care of their pet. I also explain the additional services that our kennel provides, such as daily check-ins via text message or video, to help them feel more connected to their pet while they’re away. I always strive to provide a sense of comfort and understanding to pet owners who are anxious about leaving their pet with us.”

12. What steps do you take to make sure all animals are safe and secure while they are in the kennel?

Animal safety is a top priority when it comes to working in a kennel, whether it’s a veterinary clinic, a boarding facility, or any other kind of pet service business. Interviewers want to make sure that you are aware of the importance of keeping the animals safe and secure while they are in the kennel, and that you can demonstrate your understanding of the protocols and procedures necessary to do so.

How to Answer:

The most important thing to emphasize when answering this question is that safety and security are your top priorities. Talk about the steps you take to ensure all animals in the kennel are safe, such as regularly checking on each animal, making sure their cages or enclosures are secure, providing fresh food and water, and monitoring for any signs of distress or illness. You can also discuss how you would handle an emergency situation, such as a fight between two animals or an escape attempt.

Example: “When it comes to making sure all animals in the kennel are safe, I take a proactive approach. I always do a thorough check of the cages or enclosures to make sure they are secure, and I regularly check on each animal to make sure they have ample fresh food and water. I also monitor for any signs of distress or illness and take appropriate action if needed. In the event of an emergency situation, I would take the necessary steps to ensure the safety of all animals, such as separating any animals that are fighting or containing any animals that are attempting to escape. I also have experience handling emergency situations, as I have worked in a veterinary clinic for the past two years.”

13. Describe your experience with cleaning and maintaining kennels.

Cleanliness and hygiene are critically important for any pet care facility. An interviewer needs to know that you have the necessary experience in cleaning and maintaining kennels to ensure the health and safety of the pets in their care. They want to know that you are familiar with the tools and techniques used for this job and that you are capable of doing it quickly and efficiently.

How to Answer:

To answer this question, you should describe the specific techniques and tools that you have used to clean and maintain kennels. Talk about how you ensure that all areas of the kennel are sanitized and disinfected. Mention any experience you have with using cleaning agents or other materials for different types of surfaces. You can also talk about how you monitor the kennel for signs of pests or disease. Finally, emphasize your commitment to safety and compliance with regulations.

Example: “I have extensive experience cleaning and maintaining kennels. I understand the importance of keeping kennels clean and sanitary for the safety of the animals. I have experience using a variety of tools and products, such as cleaning agents, disinfectants, and pest control products. I am also familiar with the safety protocols and regulations that must be followed when cleaning and maintaining kennels. I am committed to keeping the kennels clean and safe for all animals in my care.”

14. How do you handle emergency situations such as medical emergencies or natural disasters?

Working in a kennel can be unpredictable, and it’s important for the technician to be prepared for any possible situation. The interviewer wants to know that you understand the importance of staying calm and being proactive in any emergency situation. They’ll also want to know that you understand the safety protocols of the kennel and can handle whatever comes your way.

How to Answer:

Start by explaining the emergency protocols you’ve been trained on. Talk about how you would assess the situation and take action to ensure the safety of all animals in your care. Mention any experience you have with handling emergencies, such as evacuating a kennel during a natural disaster or administering first aid to an injured animal. Finally, explain why you believe staying calm is important when handling emergencies and how it helps you stay focused and make the best decisions for everyone involved.

Example: “I understand the importance of staying calm and proactive in any emergency situation. I’ve been trained in all safety protocols for the kennel and I’m familiar with the standard procedures for assessing and responding to various types of emergencies. For instance, if a natural disaster occurs, I’m prepared to evacuate the kennel as quickly and safely as possible. I’ve also been trained to administer first aid to any injured animals in my care. I understand that staying calm and composed is essential in any emergency situation, as it helps me focus and make the best decisions for the safety of all animals.”

15. What do you do if you notice signs of illness or injury in an animal?

Being a kennel technician means having the responsibility of caring for the health and safety of animals in their care. This question is designed to see if the candidate is aware of the signs of illness and injury, as well as if they possess the knowledge of how to properly handle such situations. It also helps to show the interviewer that the candidate takes their job seriously and is willing to act appropriately in the case of a medical emergency.

How to Answer:

The best answer to this question would be to explain the steps you would take if you noticed signs of illness or injury in an animal. You should emphasize that your first priority is always the safety and well-being of the animals, and that you would take immediate action to address any issues. Explain that you would assess the situation and determine the best course of action for the animal’s health, such as consulting a veterinarian or providing basic first aid. Finally, mention that you would also alert the appropriate personnel so that they can take further action as needed.

Example: “If I noticed signs of illness or injury in an animal, my first priority would be to assess the situation and determine the best course of action for the animal’s health. Depending on the severity of the issue, I would either consult a veterinarian or provide basic first aid myself. In either case, I would also alert the appropriate personnel so that they can take further action as needed.”

16. How do you keep accurate records of each animal’s health and behavior?

Keeping accurate records is a key part of being a kennel technician. Not only will you be responsible for understanding the individual needs of each animal in your care, but you’ll also need to document any changes in their behavior or health to ensure the safety and well-being of your furry guests. Interviewers want to know that you understand the importance of this task and know how to do it properly.

How to Answer:

You should emphasize your attention to detail and organizational skills. Talk about how you take the time to document each animal’s health and behavior in a detailed, organized manner. Explain any processes or systems that you use to ensure accuracy and consistency when recording information, such as using an online database or keeping physical records. You can also mention any experience you have with tracking medical data or other relevant experience.

Example: “I take accurate record-keeping very seriously. I use an online database to track the health and behavior of each animal, noting any changes in appearance or behavior and recording any medical treatments or medications. I also keep physical records of each animal’s health and behavior, using a checklist to ensure that I’m recording all the necessary information. I’m very organized and detail-oriented, so I can easily keep track of the information and make sure that it’s accurate and up-to-date.”

17. What do you do if an animal escapes from its enclosure?

Working with animals in a kennel environment can be unpredictable, and you’ll need to be prepared for any situation. An interviewer wants to know that you can stay calm and collected in an emergency, think quickly and logically, and take the appropriate steps to ensure the safety of yourself, the animal, and anyone else in the area.

How to Answer:

Start by describing the steps you would take to prevent an animal from escaping in the first place. This could include double-checking enclosures, inspecting locks and gates, and making sure all cages are secure before leaving them unattended. If an animal does escape, explain that your first priority would be to quickly assess the situation and determine if anyone is in danger. You should also mention that you’d contact other staff members or kennel technicians for assistance as needed. Finally, describe how you would locate the animal and safely return it to its enclosure.

Example: “My first priority when an animal escapes would be to make sure everyone in the area is safe. Once I’ve assessed the situation, I’d contact other staff members or other kennel technicians to help locate and safely return the animal to its enclosure. I’d also take steps to prevent future escapes, such as double-checking locks and gates and inspecting cage enclosures. I understand the importance of safety and security in a kennel environment and would strive to ensure that all animals are safely contained.”

18. How do you handle conflicts between staff members?

Working with animals can be a challenging experience, especially when multiple staff members are working together. It’s important that the kennel technician is able to manage and resolve conflicts between staff members in a professional manner. This question allows the interviewer to gauge the applicant’s interpersonal skills and conflict resolution abilities.

How to Answer:

The best way to answer this question is to provide an example of a conflict between staff members that you have been involved in and how you successfully resolved it. Talk about the steps you took to address the issue, such as listening to both sides of the story, understanding each person’s point of view, and coming up with a solution that was mutually beneficial for all parties. You should also emphasize your ability to remain professional and diplomatic when dealing with difficult situations.

Example: “I recently had a situation where two of my coworkers were in disagreement about the best way to handle a particular situation with a dog. I calmly listened to both sides and then proposed a compromise that allowed us to move forward without further conflict. I was able to remain professional and take into account both points of view, which helped to resolve the situation quickly and without too much drama. I believe that my ability to stay calm and diplomatic in difficult situations makes me a great fit for this role.”

19. What strategies do you use to stay organized and on top of tasks?

Working in a kennel requires a lot of multitasking and organization. The interviewer wants to know that you can handle the demands of the job and stay on top of tasks. They may also be curious to see if you have any unique strategies that you use to stay organized and efficient.

How to Answer:

Talk about the strategies you use to stay organized and on top of tasks. If you have an organizational system that works for you, explain it in detail. You can also talk about how you prioritize tasks, break them down into smaller chunks, or set reminders. It’s important to be able to demonstrate that you are capable of staying organized and managing your time effectively so that you can deliver results.

Example: “I have a few strategies I use to stay organized and on top of tasks. I use a digital calendar to keep track of deadlines and important dates, and I set up reminders so I don’t forget any tasks. I also break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks so I can stay focused and make sure I’m not missing any steps. Finally, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance to make sure I’m focusing on the most important tasks first. These strategies help me stay organized and make sure I’m on top of tasks so I can deliver results.”

20. What do you think sets you apart from other candidates for this position?

This question is essentially the interviewer’s way of asking you why they should hire you for the job. It’s a great chance for you to show off your knowledge, skills, and experience that makes you a great fit for the job. By being able to highlight why you’re the best candidate, you’ll be able to demonstrate your qualifications and show the interviewer why you should be hired over other candidates.

How to Answer:

The best way to answer this question is to focus on the skills and qualities that make you stand out from other candidates. Think about your experience with animals, such as any certifications or special training you have, as well as your knowledge of animal nutrition, behavior, and health. Additionally, consider the soft skills you bring to the table, like your ability to handle difficult situations with patience, professionalism, and compassion. Finally, don’t forget to mention any relevant accomplishments or awards you may have earned in the past.

Example: “I believe my experience with animals, combined with my strong communication skills, sets me apart from other candidates. I have worked in animal care for the past five years, and I am a certified Veterinary Technician. I am also knowledgeable about animal nutrition, behavior, and health. I am a patient and compassionate person, and I have a proven track record of successfully handling difficult situations with professionalism. Additionally, I have been recognized with several awards for my work in animal care, including an award for providing exceptional customer service. I believe my experience and qualifications make me the perfect candidate for this position.”