Careers & opprotuinites
how we operate
Motley Zoo Animal Rescue is a volunteer-powered organization where the vast majority of work is done by volunteers. However, there are also some limited opportunities for paid positions.
In general, rescue work does not pay- but becoming a dog trainer ("agent") - can!
We operate Motley Zoo at Woods Creek Kennels in Monroe (dog training and boarding), which is for dog owners from the community, no matter where their dogs originated.
Outside of fostering in your home (dogs or cats), working with these dogs is the only animal handling opportunities we have available. However, there should be no mistake made in thinking you aren't helping rescue animals directly.
Every dog you work with at the facility helps support one in our care that doesn't.
As well, you will work with foster dogs as they are seeking new homes- and you will also see them get adopted! You also help the dogs we have adopted stay in their homes through continued support with socialization, boarding, and training.
Perhaps one of the most direct ways your effort helps, is that funding from the services we offer not only helps pay for the facility itself to advance our mission's capacity, but also helps support the rescue mission's vet budget directly- costs that donations just don't cover.
Paid opportunities are available for those with at least 1 year of professional dog experience, or equivalent- though generally owning more than one dog at the same time is not considered experience.
In general, "professional experience" is defined by those who have been dog trainers, dog walkers, groomers, pet sitters, veterinary clinic workers- or those with equivalent dog handling experience, even if not on a professional basis.
See below for generalized job descriptions of the roles we have available.
DOG trainer
Whether recent or past experience, we seek those who have worked as dog trainers and who want to support rescue while maintaining regular hours and wage.
Who is qualified to apply?
Only those who have trained dogs professionally or who have similar life experience are eligible. We do not require certifications.
What does the role entail?
The Dog Trainer's role is to train dogs enrolled in our Rock Star Board & Train program, which has an established curriculum.
While training implementation may differ slightly from person to person, we follow a balanced philosophy with boundaries and positive reinforcement. We do require adherence to our methodology for consistency among clients.
Also required are some housekeeping tasks that maintain health and safety of the dogs in the facility and training/ mentorship of volunteers and Dog Training Apprentices.
What are the hours?
We offer regular, weekday shifts (Mon-Fri 8am- 12pm; 4pm-9pm) of between 6-8 hours, which can be on a part time (~20 hours/week) or on a full time basis.
DOG AGENT
Dog Agents are the people that manage dogs and play groups at our boarding & training facility in Monroe.
There are paid/ staff Dog Agents, as well as volunteers. The only difference between the two types are volunteers do this work as a hobby to give back while staff have committed to a career in dog care.
Who is qualified to apply?
No experience is required to be a general volunteer Dog Agent, as we have an extensive training process- but only those with past dog handling experience will be qualified to work as paid staff..
Qualified experience constitutes previous dog daycare experience, dog walking, veterinary assistant, grooming or other equivalent dog handling of that involves dogs that are not just your own.
What does the role entail?
Dog play groups are typically 5 dogs organized in general, with big dogs and little dogs in separate separated. They run, play and chill under the supervision of Dog Agents.
This role also requires housekeeping tasks to keep the animals dogs and healthy, as well as training/ mentorship of volunteers and Dog Agents.
What are the hours?
We offer regular, weekday shifts (Mon-Fri 8am-7pm) of 4 hours for general volunteer Dog Agents and 6-8 hours for staff, which can be on a part time (~20 hours/week) or on a full time basis.
Are there additional earning opportunities?
Dog Agents have additional income opportunities, including dog transportation, dog walking and training (if/ when applicable).
DOG TRAINING APPRENTICE
Hands-On Learning for a Future in Dog Training
This free educational program offers hands-on experience for those seriously considering a career in dog training or dog care. It does not provide certifications or guarantee paid employment, but it can help you develop the skills needed to pursue your goals- and helps save rescue dogs in the process..
What Does the Role Involve?
Apprentices start by learning the general volunteer Dog Agent role, including:
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Housekeeping and facility protocols
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Managing playgroups
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Handling and supervising dogs
From there, the program progresses to one-on-one training with dogs and teaching clients how to maintain their dog's learning.
Who Is This Program For?
This program is for those considering in a future in dog training and looking to gain hands-on experience.
🔹 Positions are limited. If you’re looking for an introductory experience, we encourage you to apply for our general volunteer Dog Agent role instead.
Program Length & Commitment
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General Dog Agent volunteer program: 12-week minimum commitment before starting apprenticeship
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Dog Training Apprenticeship: 12-24 months, depending on hours committed per week
📅 Schedule: Weekday shifts (Mon-Fri, 8 AM - 12PM; 4pm- 9pm) with a minimum of 8 hours per week (can be split over two days).
📅 Weekend Requirement: Attend Dog Trainer’s group classes to gain experience and eventually assist in teaching. Graduates may have the opportunity to lead their own classes.
What Are the Benefits?
✔️ Not accredited or certified, but provides hands-on experience that many training programs lack.
✔️ Helps prepare you for certification exams if you choose to pursue them (not required to become a trainer).
✔️ Offers experience in dog play group management, a skill missing from many certified programs but critical for rehabilitation.
✔️ Offers experience that can lead toward a career as a trainer or behaviorist, a highly in-demand profession.
🔹 Did you know? We receive 20+ weekly requests from people seeking behaviorists, yet most are booked 3-6 months out due to high demand.
Are There Paid Opportunities?
While this program does not guarantee paid work, graduates may:
💰 Teach group classes
💰 Offer boarding (in your home) when dogs are not suited for kenneling
💰 Provide transportation and dog walking services
🔹 Apprentices who meet the minimum requirements for the paid Dog Agent may apply for a paid apprentice position, allowing them to earn while they continue learning.
Start Your Journey in Dog Training Today!
This program provides a valuable, real-world learning experience for those serious about a dog training career. Your investment is your time—no financial cost—while making a real difference in the lives of dogs in need.
Apply today to begin your hands-on training journey!