Getting a job as a kennel assistant requires a strong cover letter that shows your passion for animals and your abilities. Many job seekers struggle with writing cover letters that catch the attention of hiring managers at animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and boarding facilities.
This guide gives you 15 different cover letter examples for kennel assistant positions. Each letter highlights various skills, backgrounds, and approaches to help you create your own standout application. Keep reading to find the perfect starting point for your dream job working with animals.
Sample Cover Letters for Kennel Assistant
Here are 15 sample cover letters that can help you land that kennel assistant job you want.
1. Entry-Level Applicant with Animal Care Passion
February 15, 2025
Jane Smith
123 Pet Lover Lane
Anytown, TX 75001
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: jane.smith@email.com
Ms. Sarah Johnson
Hiring Manager
Happy Tails Boarding Kennel
456 Animal Care Drive
Anytown, TX 75001
Subject: Application for Kennel Assistant Position
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Your job posting for a Kennel Assistant at Happy Tails Boarding Kennel caught my eye right away. As someone who has cared for pets all my life and volunteered at the local animal shelter for the past two years, this job feels like a perfect match for my skills and passion.
My background includes basic animal care, cleaning techniques, and the ability to spot signs of stress or illness in dogs and cats. While I may lack professional experience, my genuine love for animals and willingness to learn make up for it. The joy I feel when helping animals stay comfortable and happy drives my career goals.
My key qualifications include:
- Two years of volunteer experience at Anytown Animal Shelter
- Basic pet first aid certification
- Excellent cleaning and sanitizing skills
- Ability to handle animals of different sizes and temperaments
- Strong communication skills with both animals and people
Thank you for taking the time to look at my application. Working at a respected facility like Happy Tails would be an amazing opportunity to grow my animal care skills while providing loving care to your boarders.
I look forward to speaking with you about how my passion and dedication can benefit your kennel.
Sincerely,
Jane Smith
2. Experienced Kennel Worker Seeking Advancement
April 22, 2025
Robert Chen
789 Canine Court
Springfield, IL 62701
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: robert.chen@email.com
Mr. David Williams
Operations Manager
Premium Paws Boarding & Daycare
101 Pet Paradise Road
Springfield, IL 62701
Subject: Experienced Kennel Assistant Application
Dear Mr. Williams,
After three years as a kennel assistant at Small Town Animal Shelter, I am excited to apply for the same position at Premium Paws Boarding & Daycare. Your facility’s reputation for exceptional animal care and your modern, spacious boarding areas align perfectly with my professional values.
During my time at Small Town Animal Shelter, I developed extensive skills in animal handling, health monitoring, and facility maintenance. My daily responsibilities included caring for up to 30 dogs and 20 cats, administering medications, maintaining detailed care records, and ensuring all animals received appropriate exercise and socialization.
My qualifications and achievements include:
- Created and implemented a new cleaning protocol that reduced illness outbreaks by 40%
- Trained five new kennel assistants on proper animal handling techniques
- Advanced certification in animal behavior and body language
- Specialized experience with anxious or fearful animals
- Developed engaging enrichment activities for long-term boarders
Thank you for considering my application. The opportunity to bring my skills to Premium Paws would allow me to continue growing professionally while maintaining the high standards of care that your clients expect.
I am available for an interview at your convenience and would be happy to provide references from my current supervisor.
Best regards,
Robert Chen
3. Career-Changer with Transferable Skills
March 10, 2025
Michael Torres
456 New Path Avenue
Lakeside, CA 92040
Phone: (555) 234-5678
Email: michael.torres@email.com
Ms. Amanda Lee
Director of Staffing
Lakeside Veterinary Hospital & Boarding
789 Vet Way
Lakeside, CA 92040
Subject: Kennel Assistant Position – Career Changer with Relevant Skills
Dear Ms. Lee,
After a decade in customer service management, I am excited to pursue my lifelong passion for animal care by applying for the Kennel Assistant position at Lakeside Veterinary Hospital & Boarding. While this represents a career change, my background provides valuable skills that translate well to animal care facilities.
As a customer service manager, I supervised cleaning crews, handled difficult client situations, and maintained detailed records—all skills that apply directly to kennel work. At home, I care for three rescue dogs, including one with special medical needs that requires daily medication and monitoring.
My transferable skills include:
- Strong attention to detail and record-keeping abilities
- Experience managing cleaning protocols and maintaining sanitized environments
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Ability to work under pressure and handle emergency situations
- Physical stamina and willingness to perform cleaning tasks
What I may lack in professional animal care experience, I make up for with enthusiasm, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to learn. My career change is motivated by a deep love for animals and the satisfaction that comes from providing them with exceptional care.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background and passion can benefit your facility and the animals in your care.
Respectfully,
Michael Torres
4. Recent Graduate with Animal Science Degree
January 5, 2025
Emily Watson
123 Graduate Lane
College Town, NY 14850
Phone: (555) 321-7654
Email: emily.watson@email.com
Dr. James Martinez
Chief Veterinarian
College Town Animal Hospital
456 Veterinary Circle
College Town, NY 14850
Subject: Kennel Assistant Application – Recent Animal Science Graduate
Dear Dr. Martinez,
As a recent graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science from State University, I am eager to apply for the Kennel Assistant position at College Town Animal Hospital. My academic background, combined with hands-on experience through university programs, has prepared me well for this role.
My coursework included animal behavior, nutrition, and basic veterinary science, giving me a strong foundation for understanding animal needs and health concerns. During my studies, I completed a 200-hour practicum at the university’s large animal facility, where I assisted with daily care, health monitoring, and behavioral enrichment for various species.
My relevant qualifications include:
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with a 3.8 GPA
- Laboratory experience with animal health assessments
- Course completion in animal nutrition and preventative care
- Research assistant position studying canine behavior patterns
- Student membership in the American Animal Hospital Association
The kennel assistant position at your hospital would be an ideal starting point for my career in animal care. I am particularly drawn to your facility’s reputation for integrating boarding services with medical care, allowing me to expand my knowledge while providing excellent service to your clients and their pets.
Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my education and enthusiasm can benefit your team.
Sincerely,
Emily Watson
5. Part-Time Applicant with Flexible Schedule
May 8, 2025
Thomas Baker
789 Flexible Schedule Street
Metro City, FL 33101
Phone: (555) 876-5432
Email: thomas.baker@email.com
Ms. Patricia Garcia
Kennel Manager
Sunshine Pets Boarding Facility
101 Sunshine Boulevard
Metro City, FL 33101
Subject: Part-Time Kennel Assistant Position Application
Dear Ms. Garcia,
Your advertisement for a part-time Kennel Assistant with weekend availability matches my schedule and interests perfectly. As a full-time student pursuing a veterinary technician degree, I am looking for practical experience that complements my studies while allowing me to maintain my academic commitments.
My weekend and evening availability aligns well with your busiest boarding times, and my genuine passion for animal care ensures that I will provide the same high-quality attention during these peak periods that your clients expect. My previous experience includes six months as a dog walker and pet sitter, handling up to 10 different animals with varying needs and temperaments.
My qualifications for this role include:
- Complete availability on weekends and three weekday evenings
- Current enrollment in Veterinary Technician program with relevant coursework completed
- Six months of professional pet care experience
- Knowledge of basic animal first aid and safety protocols
- Reliable transportation and excellent time management skills
Working at Sunshine Pets would provide valuable hands-on experience while I complete my studies, benefiting both my professional development and your need for dedicated weekend staff. My flexible schedule also makes me available for holiday coverage, which I understand is often challenging for boarding facilities.
Thank you for considering my application. I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss how my schedule flexibility and animal care passion can benefit your team.
Respectfully,
Thomas Baker
6. Applicant Highlighting Physical Abilities and Stamina
June 15, 2025
Alexandra Rodriguez
456 Strength Street
Workout City, CO 80201
Phone: (555) 765-4321
Email: alexandra.rodriguez@email.com
Mr. Kevin Thompson
Facility Director
Mountain View Kennels
789 High Altitude Drive
Workout City, CO 80201
Subject: Kennel Assistant Position – Strong Work Ethic and Physical Capabilities
Dear Mr. Thompson,
Your job posting for a Kennel Assistant at Mountain View Kennels mentioned the physical demands of the position, which aligns perfectly with my background and capabilities. As a former collegiate athlete with experience in physical labor jobs, I am well-prepared for the demanding aspects of kennel work.
The daily tasks of cleaning kennels, handling large dogs, carrying heavy bags of food, and staying on my feet for long shifts are challenges I am ready to meet. My background includes two years working on a horse farm, where I regularly lifted 50-pound feed bags, cleaned stalls, and handled large animals safely and confidently.
My relevant strengths include:
- Ability to lift and carry up to 75 pounds safely and repeatedly
- Experience handling large and strong animals, including horses and large-breed dogs
- Stamina for 8-10 hour shifts of continuous physical activity
- Attention to detail even during physically demanding tasks
- Understanding of proper body mechanics to prevent injury
Beyond my physical capabilities, I bring a genuine love for animals and a commitment to their wellbeing. As someone who has personally cared for dogs ranging from Chihuahuas to Great Danes, I understand how to adjust my approach based on an animal’s size, temperament, and needs.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to demonstrate my physical capabilities and animal handling skills in person.
Sincerely,
Alexandra Rodriguez
7. Applicant with Special Focus on Anxious Animals
August 3, 2025
William Johnson
123 Calm Approach Lane
Serenity, WA 98101
Phone: (555) 234-8765
Email: william.johnson@email.com
Ms. Elizabeth Brown
Owner and Head Trainer
Gentle Care Kennels & Training
456 Peaceful Place
Serenity, WA 98101
Subject: Kennel Assistant Position with Focus on Anxious Animals
Dear Ms. Brown,
The Kennel Assistant position at Gentle Care Kennels caught my attention because of your facility’s focus on providing specialized care for anxious, senior, and special needs pets. My background in animal behavior and experience with fearful and anxious dogs makes me uniquely qualified for this role.
For the past two years, I have volunteered at Second Chance Rescue, working specifically with dogs that have fear and anxiety issues due to past trauma. This experience taught me the patience, gentle approach, and observation skills needed to help these animals feel safe and comfortable in kennel environments.
My specific qualifications include:
- Certification in Fear Free Handling Techniques for anxious animals
- Experience with behavior modification for kennel stress
- Knowledge of body language signals indicating stress or discomfort
- Ability to create calming environments through proper setup and sensory management
- Successful rehabilitation work with over 25 fearful dogs
Your kennel’s reputation for providing individualized care that addresses each animal’s emotional needs aligns perfectly with my approach to animal care. The opportunity to work in a facility that prioritizes behavioral health alongside physical wellbeing would allow me to apply my specialized skills daily.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my experience with anxious animals could benefit your clients and their beloved pets.
With appreciation,
William Johnson
8. Seasonal Applicant for Summer Position
April 10, 2025
Sophia Martinez
789 College Break Road
Beach Town, NJ 08008
Phone: (555) 987-1234
Email: sophia.martinez@email.com
Mr. Jason Campbell
Seasonal Staffing Coordinator
Beach Town Boarding & Daycare
101 Summer Rush Drive
Beach Town, NJ 08008
Subject: Summer Seasonal Kennel Assistant Application
Dear Mr. Campbell,
As a veterinary student seeking meaningful summer employment, I am applying for your Seasonal Kennel Assistant position at Beach Town Boarding & Daycare. Your busiest season aligns perfectly with my summer break from May 15th through August 25th, allowing me to provide dedicated support during your peak boarding period.
My previous summer position at North Shore Animal Hospital gave me valuable experience in a busy boarding facility, where I assisted with the care of up to 40 animals daily during the tourist season. This experience taught me how to maintain high standards of care even during the busiest weeks and helped me develop efficient cleaning and feeding routines.
My qualifications for your seasonal position include:
- Complete availability for the entire summer season, including holidays
- Previous experience in a high-volume seasonal boarding facility
- Two years of veterinary school education with relevant coursework completed
- Ability to quickly learn facility-specific protocols and procedures
- Willingness to work flexible shifts as needed during peak times
The opportunity to spend my summer break caring for animals while gaining additional practical experience would be ideal for my professional development. As someone who plans to specialize in shelter medicine after graduation, seasonal boarding experience provides valuable insights into animal stress management and disease prevention in group housing situations.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how I can help your facility maintain excellent care standards during your busiest season.
Best regards,
Sophia Martinez
9. Retiree Seeking Part-Time Animal Care Work
July 7, 2025
Robert Williams
456 Retirement Lane
Golden Years, AZ 85001
Phone: (555) 432-1098
Email: robert.williams@email.com
Ms. Susan Taylor
Human Resources Manager
Desert Paws Senior Dog Sanctuary
789 Gentle Care Road
Golden Years, AZ 85001
Subject: Part-Time Kennel Assistant Position for Experienced Animal Lover
Dear Ms. Taylor,
After 30 years as a facilities manager for a large office complex, I am enjoying an active retirement and seeking part-time work that combines my maintenance skills with my lifelong love of animals. The part-time Kennel Assistant position at Desert Paws Senior Dog Sanctuary seems like an ideal match for my background and current goals.
Throughout my career, I supervised cleaning staff, handled facility maintenance, and ensured safe, comfortable environments—skills directly applicable to kennel work. As a devoted dog owner who has cared for senior pets, I understand the special attention older animals require and find great satisfaction in providing that care.
My relevant qualifications include:
- Extensive experience managing cleaning and maintenance operations
- Flexibility for morning shifts and weekend coverage
- Physical fitness and ability to handle the demands of kennel work
- Background in facility safety protocols and sanitization methods
- Personal experience caring for senior and special needs dogs
What draws me to Desert Paws specifically is your mission of providing loving care to senior dogs. The opportunity to use my time and energy to improve the lives of these animals would be both meaningful and enjoyable as part of my active retirement.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your compassionate team on a part-time basis.
Sincerely,
Robert Williams
10. Applicant for Luxury Pet Resort Position
September 5, 2025
Victoria Hughes
123 Customer Service Drive
Luxury Town, CA 90210
Phone: (555) 567-8901
Email: victoria.hughes@email.com
Mr. Jonathan Reynolds
General Manager
Platinum Paws Luxury Pet Resort
456 Upscale Avenue
Luxury Town, CA 90210
Subject: Kennel Assistant Application for Luxury Pet Resort
Dear Mr. Reynolds,
The Kennel Assistant position at Platinum Paws Luxury Pet Resort appeals to me because of your facility’s commitment to providing a premium experience for both pets and their owners. My background in high-end hospitality and personal passion for animal care uniquely qualifies me to meet the expectations of your discerning clientele.
For five years, I worked in guest services at The Grand Hotel, where I learned the importance of anticipating needs, paying attention to small details, and creating exceptional experiences. This customer service mindset, combined with my genuine love for animals and basic veterinary assistant training, positions me to excel in your luxury pet care environment.
My qualifications relevant to your facility include:
- Five years of luxury hospitality experience with VIP clients
- Certificate in Veterinary Assisting with basic animal health knowledge
- Experience in maintaining detailed client preference records
- Understanding of premium service expectations and standards
- Strong communication skills for client updates and special requests
What sets Platinum Paws apart is your individualized approach to pet care, from customized feeding schedules to personalized play sessions. This alignment of values makes me particularly excited about the opportunity to join your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the chance to discuss how my background in premium service and animal care can contribute to the exceptional experience your resort provides.
Warm regards,
Victoria Hughes
11. Night Shift Kennel Attendant Applicant
November 12, 2025
Daniel Park
789 Night Owl Street
Wakefield, MA 01880
Phone: (555) 345-6789
Email: daniel.park@email.com
Dr. Rebecca Wilson
Medical Director
24/7 Veterinary Emergency Center
101 Around the Clock Drive
Wakefield, MA 01880
Subject: Night Shift Kennel Assistant Position Application
Dear Dr. Wilson,
As someone who naturally thrives during late hours, I am applying for the overnight Kennel Assistant position at 24/7 Veterinary Emergency Center. My experience as a night security officer, combined with my animal care background, has prepared me for the unique challenges of monitoring boarding animals during overnight hours.
For three years, I worked night shifts in building security, developing excellent observation skills and the ability to stay alert and productive throughout the night. My additional experience includes volunteering at Metro Animal Shelter, where I assisted with evening care routines and learned to recognize signs of distress or discomfort in kenneled animals.
My qualifications specific to the overnight position include:
- Proven ability to work independently during night hours
- Experience maintaining detailed logs and shift reports
- Training in emergency response procedures
- Calm demeanor during high-stress situations
- Excellent observation skills for monitoring animal health changes
The overnight kennel assistant role requires someone who can provide attentive care when animals may be at their most vulnerable, especially those recovering from procedures or staying due to medical conditions. My combination of night shift experience and animal care knowledge makes me well-suited for this responsibility.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my background and night owl tendencies can benefit your 24-hour care facility.
Sincerely,
Daniel Park
12. Applicant Highlighting Cleanliness and Organization Skills
January 20, 2025
Jennifer Adams
456 Spotless Lane
Cleanville, TX 77001
Phone: (555) 789-0123
Email: jennifer.adams@email.com
Mr. Gregory Martinez
Facilities Manager
Pristine Paws Boarding Center
789 Sanitized Street
Cleanville, TX 77001
Subject: Kennel Assistant Position – Cleanliness Specialist
Dear Mr. Martinez,
Your job listing for a Kennel Assistant at Pristine Paws Boarding Center emphasized the importance of maintaining exceptional cleanliness standards, which perfectly aligns with my background and strengths. As someone with experience in both commercial cleaning and animal care, I bring a unique combination of skills to this position.
My most recent role as a housekeeping supervisor for a hotel chain taught me advanced cleaning protocols, efficient sanitization methods, and the importance of consistent documentation. These skills transfer directly to kennel maintenance, where cleanliness affects both animal health and client satisfaction.
My relevant qualifications include:
- Certification in commercial sanitization techniques
- Experience implementing OSHA-compliant cleaning protocols
- Knowledge of pet-safe cleaning products and their appropriate applications
- Background in creating and maintaining cleaning schedules
- Understanding of disease prevention through proper sanitation
Beyond my cleaning expertise, I bring genuine care for animal welfare and two years of volunteer experience at Hope Animal Rescue. This combination allows me to balance thorough cleaning practices with gentle, attentive animal care.
Thank you for considering my application. The opportunity to maintain your facility’s high standards of cleanliness while caring for animals would be both challenging and rewarding.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Adams
13. Multilingual Applicant for Diverse Clientele Facility
March 3, 2025
Carlos Mendez
123 International Avenue
Metro Center, NY 10001
Phone: (555) 234-5678
Email: carlos.mendez@email.com
Ms. Maria Sanchez
Customer Relations Manager
Global Pet Boarding & Daycare
456 Diversity Plaza
Metro Center, NY 10001
Subject: Multilingual Kennel Assistant Application
Dear Ms. Sanchez,
The Kennel Assistant position at Global Pet Boarding & Daycare caught my attention because of your facility’s location in a diverse neighborhood and your commitment to serving clients from various cultural backgrounds. As a multilingual individual with animal care experience, I can help bridge communication gaps while providing excellent care to your boarders.
My language skills include fluency in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with conversational ability in French. These languages cover many of your client demographics, allowing me to clearly understand special care instructions and communicate effectively with pet owners who may struggle with English. My previous customer service role at a community center taught me to navigate cultural differences with sensitivity and respect.
My qualifications for this position include:
- Fluency in three languages commonly spoken in your service area
- One year of experience as a veterinary receptionist handling client communications
- Basic animal handling and care skills from personal pet ownership
- Cultural sensitivity and adaptability from extensive international travel
- Strong problem-solving abilities when faced with communication challenges
Your boarding facility’s reputation for accommodating diverse client needs makes it an ideal workplace for someone with my background. The opportunity to make pet owners from all backgrounds feel comfortable leaving their beloved animals in your care would be deeply satisfying.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to discussing how my language skills and cultural awareness can enhance your client experience.
Warm regards,
Carlos Mendez
14. High School Student Seeking First Animal Care Job
May 16, 2025
Samantha Lee
789 New Career Path
Youth Town, OR 97001
Phone: (555) 987-6543
Email: samantha.lee@email.com
Mr. Brian Wilson
Youth Employment Coordinator
Community Animal Shelter
101 First Job Drive
Youth Town, OR 97001
Subject: Entry-Level Kennel Assistant Position for Student
Dear Mr. Wilson,
As a high school junior with a passion for animal welfare, I am excited to apply for the part-time Kennel Assistant position at Community Animal Shelter. Your program for introducing young people to animal care careers offers exactly the kind of practical experience I hope to gain before pursuing veterinary studies after graduation.
While this would be my first formal job in animal care, my background includes raising and training my family’s three dogs, volunteering at adoption events, and completing a school-based project on animal shelter management. These experiences have given me basic animal handling skills and a realistic understanding of the less glamorous aspects of animal care work.
What I can bring to this position:
- Availability for 15 hours weekly during school year and full-time during summer
- Completion of Youth Animal Handler safety course
- Responsible work ethic and punctuality
- Genuine enthusiasm for learning proper animal care procedures
- Willingness to perform all required cleaning and maintenance tasks
The opportunity to learn from experienced staff while contributing to animal welfare in our community would provide valuable preparation for my planned career path. Your shelter’s reputation for mentoring young animal care workers makes it an ideal place for me to start my professional journey.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of joining your team and beginning my career in animal care.
Sincerely,
Samantha Lee
15. Applicant with Dog Training Background
July 25, 2025
Nathan Scott
456 Trainer Trail
Canine City, GA 30301
Phone: (555) 345-6789
Email: nathan.scott@email.com
Ms. Olivia Jackson
Operations Director
Elite Boarding & Training Center
789 Behavior Boulevard
Canine City, GA 30301
Subject: Kennel Assistant Position Application – Experienced Dog Trainer
Dear Ms. Jackson,
The Kennel Assistant position at Elite Boarding & Training Center represents a perfect opportunity to combine my dog training background with daily animal care. Your facility’s integration of training services with boarding appeals to me because it allows for consistent reinforcement of positive behaviors during a dog’s entire stay.
For the past three years, I have worked as an assistant dog trainer at Positive Paws Training School, where I helped clients address basic obedience and behavior issues. This experience gave me insight into canine learning patterns, stress signals, and how environment affects behavior—knowledge that translates well to the kennel setting.
My relevant qualifications include:
- Certification in Positive Reinforcement Training Techniques
- Experience identifying and managing dog-to-dog reactivity
- Understanding of how kennel environments impact canine behavior
- Skills in maintaining training consistency across different handlers
- Knowledge of enrichment activities to reduce kennel stress
What distinguishes Elite Boarding from other facilities is your commitment to maintaining training progress during boarding stays. As someone who has seen how quickly training can regress without consistency, I value this approach and would enjoy reinforcing these skills as part of daily care.
Thank you for considering my application. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my training background can add value to your boarding services.
Best regards,
Nathan Scott
Wrapping Up: Cover Letters for Kennel Assistants
These 15 sample cover letters showcase different backgrounds, skill sets, and approaches for kennel assistant positions. The key is highlighting your genuine passion for animal care while clearly communicating the specific strengths you bring to the position. Whether you’re a student, career-changer, or experienced animal care worker, adapting these examples to reflect your personal situation can help create a compelling application that gets noticed by hiring managers.
Take time to research each facility before applying, and customize your letter to address their specific needs and values. A thoughtful, well-crafted cover letter can be your first step toward a rewarding career working with animals.