What Does a Pet Hotel Associate Do at PetSmart?
PetSmart’s PetsHotel offers boarding and daycare services for cats and dogs, and at the heart of this operation are the dedicated Pet Hotel Associates. These individuals play a critical role in ensuring the health, happiness, and well-being of pets during their stay. From comfort and safety to communication with pet owners, their responsibilities are wide-ranging and impactful.
Role Overview
Pet Hotel Associates provide 24/7 care to canine and feline guests. Facilities are designed for safety and cleanliness, and every associate ensures the pets are comfortable during their stay. Associates are trained in breed-specific needs and behaviors to personalize attention for each pet.
Daily Responsibilities
- Feeding and Nutrition: Associates follow provided dietary routines and administer owner-supplied foods according to instructions. They also offer snacks and special treats such as dog-safe ice cream and stuffed KONG toys.
- Supervised Play: Staff manage group or individual play sessions, ensuring pets are socialized and exercised in a safe, controlled environment indoor-only settings.
- Cleanliness and Hygiene: Rooms and common areas are sanitized regularly. Pet Hotel Associates maintain the high sanitation standards necessary for health and safety of all pets.
- Safety Protocols: They administer flea and tick control when necessary and ensure all animals are up to date on required vaccinations – rabies, Bordetella, and DAPP.
- Comfort & Enrichment: Animals are engaged with bedtime story sessions, holiday-themed activities, and one-on-one care. Cats stay in isolated Kitty Cottages to reduce stress and exposure to dog scents.
Monitoring and Communication
- Pawgress Reports: Each pet has a detailed daily log shared with owners, ensuring transparency and trust.
- Owner Communication: Pet parents can call into the “bone booth” to speak with their pet, and Associates are available to share updates or answer questions.
- Emergency Readiness: Associates work closely with on-call veterinarians who are accessible 24/7 for any medical concerns.
Customer Service
Pet Hotel Associates interact with clients during check-in and check-out. They review vaccination records, note special instructions, and gather emergency contact details. Top-level customer service ensures both pets and their humans feel secure and informed.
Facility Management
Each PetsHotel location may accommodate over 200 pets, with up to 120 dog rooms, 25 suites, and 12-14 cat cottages. Associates manage capacities, room assignments, and help coordinate boarding and day camp schedules.
Types of Services Facilitated by Associates
- Doggie Day Camp
- Overnight Boarding
- Suite Upgrades
- Treat-Time Add-ons
- Training Camps and Grooming Services
- Medication Administration
Staffing and Safety Features
PetsHotel is staffed around the clock. Each pet wears an individualized ID collar, and the facility is secured with keypad-entry double doors and surveillance cameras. These protocols help associates keep the pets safe and accounted for at all times.
Booking and Tour Assistance
In addition to direct pet care, Pet Hotel Associates may assist with booking reservations, scheduling facility tours, and managing customer concerns about pricing, holidays, or pet compatibility.
Required Qualifications
- Love for animals and comfort around dogs and cats
- Basic knowledge of pet care and behavior
- Communication and customer service skills
- Ability to maintain a calm demeanor during emergencies
- Attention to cleanliness and detail
The Impact of a Pet Hotel Associate
Pet Hotel Associates play a vital role in creating a safe, enriching environment for pets while their families are away. Through detailed care plans, enrichment activities, and 24-hour monitoring, they ensure pet parents can travel worry-free knowing their companions are in capable, compassionate hands.
