Chris Nicholson
Pet Orphans of Southern California
Sherman Oaks
13
years of professional experience
Dynamic canine behavior specialist with extensive experience in all things dog, excelling in rehabilitation and training. Proven track record in team management and excellent customer service, enhancing dogs' quality of life through tailored care and effective pack leadership. Skilled in canine behavior analysis and dedicated to ensuring safe, enriching environments for all pets.
Work History
Assistant Kennel Manager/Trainer
6 Months- Coordinated training programs for staff on animal care best practices and emergency procedures.
- Developed and implemented enrichment activities to enhance animal well-being and behavior.
- Supervised daily operations of kennel facility, ensuring animal welfare and compliance with safety regulations.
- Streamlined intake process for new animals, improving efficiency and reducing wait times.
- Assessed individual behavioral problems in dogs and applied targeted rehabilitation techniques to enhance their well-being.
- Applied high-power pressure washer and various tools to meticulously clean and maintain facility kennels.
- Managed scheduling and workflow for team members to optimize resource allocation and service delivery.
- Oversaw inventory management of supplies, ensuring availability while minimizing waste and costs.
- Cultivated relationships with community partners to promote adoption events and increase engagement.
Lead Dog Handler
4 Years 4 Months- Rehabilitated dogs with behavioral and aggression issues, obedience training, and pack walks.
- Daycare, boarding, feeding, medicating/vaccine administration, cleaning and maintaining the upkeep of the facility.
- Facilitated play sessions by pairing dogs with appropriate play partners and watching for signs of anxiety or aggression.
- Interacted with animals to familiarize with human voices or contact.
- Enhanced pets' quality of life through maintained diet and exercise.
- Brushed, bathed and conditioned animals' coats.
Veterinary Technician
8 Months- Managed inventory of medical supplies and medications, ensuring availability for treatments.
- Restrained animals for examination or treatment.
- Prepared prescription medications under veterinarian supervision for dispensing to clients.
- Prepared animals for surgery by shaving and sterilizing surgical sites.
- Maintained clean and organized patient and work areas to prevent cross-contamination.
- Performed wound cleansing and dressings.
- Implemented animal restraint techniques to ensure safety of staff and animals during procedures.
- Assisted with diagnostic tests and x-rays.
- Managed inventory of medical supplies by ordering necessary items when stock was low.
Police Working Dog Handler/Professional Dog Bather
1 Year 1 Month- Administered medications as directed by veterinary staff.
- Observed animals to determine temperaments, abilities, or aptitudes.
- Ensured all dogs in care received proper exercise through daily walks, runs, or play sessions.
- Supervised playtime between multiple dogs to ensure safe and controlled a safe and controlled environment for socialization.
- Kept pet facility sanitized and organized by cleaning and disinfecting play and work areas.
Doggie Daycare Lead/Facility Operations Manager
5 Years 9 Months- Maintained comfortable, clean and sanitized animal quarters.
- Monitored animal behavior and condition for signs of distress or serious medical issues.
- Handled wide-ranging upkeep work for animal care facility, including space disinfection, laundry and supply restocking.
- Groomed animals regularly, including washing, brushing and trimming coats.
- Identified issues and solutions to eliminate backlog and maximize workflows.
- Collaborated positively with peers and other staff members to maintain friendly, supportive, and cooperative work atmosphere.
- Promoted positive behaviors through training and corrective techniques.
Professional Dog Bather
1 Year 3 Months- Handled wide-ranging upkeep work for animal care facility, including space disinfection, laundry and supply restocking.
- Groomed animals regularly, including washing, brushing and trimming coats.
- Delivered fast and friendly service to handle questions and service complaints.
Education
Diploma
Skills
Behavior analysis
Intermediate Dog Rehabilitation
Police K9 training
Team management
Animal welfare compliance
Dog Training Techniques
Canine therapy
Excellent Customer Service
Timeline
Assistant Kennel Manager/Trainer
Pet Orphans of Southern California
02.2026 - 08.2026Read More
Lead Dog Handler
D Pet Hotels
09.2021 - 01.2026Read More
Veterinary Technician
Harbor Pines Veterinary Center
03.2021 - 11.2021Read More
Police Working Dog Handler/Professional Dog Bather
Kennel Club LAX
05.2019 - 06.2020Read More
Professional Dog Bather
Wagz Grooming
03.2018 - 06.2019Read More
Doggie Daycare Lead/Facility Operations Manager
Doggie Central
10.2013 - 07.2019Read More
Culver City High School
Diploma
Read More