Dog Training Internship

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 
Individuals participating in the Butte Humane’s dog training internship program will receive a well-rounded basic knowledge of canine learning theory and behavior which will be applied as they train shelter dogs in basic obedience and good manners.  Interns will work directly with the Canine Services Coordinator to create a training program for their assigned caseload of shelter dogs whose needs may range from learning simple obedience commands to behavior modification training.  

CHARACTERISTICS 
Candidates applying for this position will possess: 
• Extreme passion for our agency’s mission
• A love of dogs without bias against specific breeds
• Strong written and interpersonal and communication skills 
• Ability to maintain a professional demeanor with staff, members of the public and other volunteers
• High threshold for frustration
• Ability to absorb and apply information quickly
• Self-starting and proactive work ethic
• Ability to commit 6 scheduled hours to the program each week
• Ability to make a 4 month minimum commitment to the program

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Undergo ongoing training relevant to the program
• Train shelter dogs as prescribed by the Canine Services Coordinator
• Maintain accurate written records of progress and interactions with assigned dogs
• Assist with canine temperament evaluations as needed
• Assist with data entry as needed

PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE
• Maintain professional standards of performance, demeanor and appearance at all times
• Perform tasks and responsibilities in a complete and timely manner, complying with agency policies and standards and conforming to the requirements of this job description
• Maintain a creative, team-building, cooperative approach to job performance and seek to bring a constructive, problem-solving orientation to all tasks 
• Maintain an awareness of the agency’s mission and work to promote the positive individual and social change goals it embodies 
• Ability to work with a diverse staff and excel in a multi-cultural environment. 

SKILLS, REQUIREMENTS, AND ABILITIES
• 18 years of age or older
• Ability to handle large (60+ lb), strong dogs
• Prior experience with dogs preferred (but not necessary)

To apply for the Dog Training Internship please email a letter of interest to allisonreader@buttehumane.org.