Pet Daycare & Boarding Receptionist  Position summary

The Pet Daycare & Boarding Receptionist is the first point of contact for pet parents. This role supports check-ins/outs, scheduling, client communication, payments, and daily coordination with the daycare/kennel team to ensure a smooth, safe, and welcoming experience for every guest.

Key responsibilities Client service & front desk

Greet clients and pets warmly; maintain a calm, professional lobby environment

Answer phones, texts, and emails; respond promptly and accurately

Explain services, policies, and requirements (vaccines, feeding/meds, pickup windows, late fees, etc.)

Handle concerns with empathy and confidence; escalate issues to management when needed

Scheduling & reservations

Schedule daycare, boarding, and evaluations/temperament tests (if applicable)

Confirm reservations, update client/pet profiles, and document special instructions

Manage waitlists, capacity limits, and cancellation/no-show policies

Check-in / check-out workflow

Verify vaccines, required forms, emergency contacts, and authorized pick-up persons

Review feeding instructions, medications, and belongings at drop-off

Communicate notes clearly to the kennel/daycare team

Process pick-ups, go-home instructions/report cards (if used), and billing

Payments & admin

Collect payments, run POS transactions, and balance drawer as assigned

Prepare daily paperwork (boarding cards, feeding/med sheets, labels)

Maintain accurate records and follow confidentiality standards

Support retail sales at the front (treats, toys, etc.) if applicable

Team communication & facility support

Coordinate with kennel/daycare leads on arrivals, departures, and pet notes

Report urgent concerns or emergencies immediately

Keep the front desk and lobby clean, stocked, and organized

Schedule expectations

This position requires reliable availability, including some weekends and holidays (rotating coverage).

Shifts may vary based on occupancy, holidays, and peak seasons.

Required skills & qualifications

1+ year customer service/front desk experience (pet care, hospitality, or medical office preferred)

Strong communication and de-escalation skills in a fast-paced environment

Basic computer skills (scheduling software, email, POS)

Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented

Comfortable around dogs/cats of all sizes and energy levels

Preferred qualifications

Experience in boarding/daycare, grooming, or veterinary settings

Knowledge of basic pet behavior/body language

Cash handling experience and strong attention to detail

Physical demands & working conditions

Standing/walking for extended periods; frequent bending and reaching

Ability to lift up to ~40 lbs (with assistance as needed)

Exposure to noise, pet dander, cleaning products, and occasional accidents