Dog Behaviour Assessor

Dog Behaviour Assessors (BAs) are responsible for managing and objectively

assessing all incoming dogs to the Home. They identify, manage and control

potential risks, devise care and training plans and generate re-homing criteria. BAs

assist Animal Care staff with the day-to-day husbandry and training of the dogs in

our care.

2. Principle tasks

• To meet with the owners of incoming dogs and obtain relevant information about


the animal's behaviour and history where available.

• To assist the dog warden where necessary to transfer dogs to the kennel blocks



• To observe and familiarise yourself with all incoming dogs in kennels, working as


part of a team to document behaviour and ensure that each animal's needs are met

from the outset.

• To carry out objective behavioural assessments, allocating appropriate


colour/number codes, identifying risks, and working with Senior BA, Training &

Behaviour Manager & Duty Managers on site to ensure the safe management of

dogs on site.

• To work with the on site veterinary team to ensure any behaviour medication is


given where needed. Report back to the veterinary team any concerns or

observations as needed.

• To attend veterinary appointments with dogs who have known handling issues, or


have shown previous aggression in the vets

• Assist with all behavioural euthanasia, and medical where needed, ensuring a


compassionate approach in line with BCDHs policies and procedures

• To drive the rehoming process forward by creating detailed and realistic rehoming


criteria for dogs that have successfully completed their assessments.

• To enter and update details of animal assessments on the charity's animal


database within agreed timeframes.

• To update the Rehoming team and other key staff on the availability of dogs for


rehoming and any relevant changes to their assessment or location on site.

• To update dog care and training plans, to deliver 121s to potential adopters and


provide post home support when required.

• To cover kennel blocks and assist the animal care team as required.



• To act as an on-site emergency responder - attending animal emergencies and


taking part in regular drills.

• To provide informal support to Animal Care staff, acting as a role model and


providing advice and guidance on the day to day running of a dog blocks.

• To be familiar with and comply with Home policies and procedures