Job Code: 25OTH07
CAREER OPPORTUNITY:
DOG HANDLER
ABOUT THE UPPER GRAND DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD (UGDSB)
The UGDSB employs a team of approximately 4000 dedicated staff who serve more than 35000 students attending a variety of programs across 66 elementary and 11 secondary schools as well as continuing education and adult learning centres in the counties of Dufferin Wellington and the City of Guelph. The UGDSB covers the ancestral and treaty lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit the Six Nations of the Grand River and Saugeen Ojibway Nation.
The UGDSB is committed to supporting student achievement and well-being through our team of dedicated staff and strong learning communities always striving to meet the diverse needs of our students. Our employees are empowered to contribute in meaningful ways to the success of our students and the greater organization.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The UGDSB is seeking a dynamic individual to join our team in the capacity of Dog Handler for this full-time temporary position. Under the direction of the Principal/Vice-Principal the Dog Handler will support our students utilizing a service dog ensuring a safe and secure environment at all times. This is a 10-month position (September to June) to start as soon as possible and ending June 26 2026 with possibility of extension
Work Location: Parkinson Centennial Public School
Rate of Pay: $30.00 per hour plus applicable vacation pay in accordance with the Employment Standards Act
FTE/Hours: 1.0 FTE (32.5 hours per week)
Duties to commence/end: As soon as possible and ending June 26 2026 with possibility of extension
Responsibilities:
- Provide daily handling and supervision of the service dog.
- Provide support to a student utilizing service dog ensuring a safe and inclusive environment
- Follow established policies and procedures regarding service animals in UGDSB workplaces
- Facilitating communication and positive interaction between the service animal and the student which may include assisting with the animals training
- Assist with managing the service animal during school activities (i.e. ensuring that the student and the animal have a positive and safe environment)
- Supporting the integration of the student and the service animal into the school routine which may include providing supportive training with the student on strategies to safely handle and interact with the service animal
- Ensure the dogs needs (hydration bathroom breaks rest) are met throughout the day.
- Monitor and maintain the dogs behavior hygiene and readiness for service.
- Collaborate with educators support staff and family to ensure seamless integration of the service dog into the students learning experience.
- Respond calmly and effectively to unexpected situations involving the dog or student.
- Maintain records related to the dogs care behavior and any incidents.
- Other duties as assigned
Experience and Qualifications: - Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent education and experience deemed equivalent by the Board
- Must be 18 years of age or older.
- Demonstrated experience and understanding of service animal training public access requirements and best practices for working alongside service animals is an asset.
- Prior experience working with service dogs or in animal care/handling is an asset.
- Understanding of service dog protocols and public access rights.
- Ability to follow individualized support plans and maintain confidentiality.
- Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset.
- Physically able to manage and walk a medium to large-sized dog.
- Ability to communicate in a sensitive courteous manner
- Ability to work as a team player
- Demonstrated commitment to working in a diverse school community and/or work environment
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and privacy of student information.
APPLICATION DETAILS: Applications are accepted exclusively through Apply To Education . To submit your cover letter and resume click the Apply button at the top of the page or visit:
While we thank all applicants for their interest in working for the UGDSB we wish to advise that only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
Please note: An original Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) must be provided prior to the commencement of employment (if the successful candidate is external). The VSC must be dated within 6 months of the start date of employment. For further information refer to the UGDSBs Criminal Record Check for requirements.
INCLUSIVE RECRUITMENT & HIRING
Employment Equity
The UGDSB is committed to disrupting systemic racism and oppression in all of its forms. We are committed to building a diverse staff that is reflective of and adds value to the community and students we serve. We actively encourage applications from members of groups who have historically and/or currently experience marginalization and/or barriers to equity including but not limited to:
- First Nations Inuit and Métis peoples and all other Indigenous peoples
- Persons of marginalized sexual orientations gender identities and gender expressions
- Members of groups that commonly experience discrimination based on race ancestry ethnicity colour religion and/or spiritual beliefs or place of origin.
- Persons with visible and/or invisible disabilities
At UGDSB we recognize that many of the identities listed above do not exist in a single form and are often intersecting creating complex and unique experiences for applicants. We value the contributions that each person brings and are committed to creating and maintaining an environment where everyone can participate fully thrive and reach their full potential. Please visit
Safe Equitable & Inclusive Schools to find out more about equity diversity and inclusion at the UGDSB. Accommodation & Accessibility
We seek applicants with a wide range of abilities and we provide accessible candidate experience. If you require accommodation at any phase of the recruitment process please contact
4-Nov-25