Animal Wellness Assistant - Part-Time

Summary: The Gentle Barn is a nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to rescuing animals and helping both animals and people heal. Through innovative programs like Cow Hug Therapy®, Equine Therapy, and educational experiences, we create meaningful connections that inspire hope, compassion, and transformation. We are a mission-driven, fast-paced, and deeply collaborative team committed to making a real impact every day.

At The Gentle Barn, you’ll be part of a purpose-filled environment where your work directly contributes to changing lives, both human and animal. The Gentle Barn Foundation is seeking a dedicated and highly responsible Animal Wellness Assistant on a part-time basis to join our team to work alongside the Founder. This vital role focuses on assisting daily individualized wellness treatments and compassionate care to our rescued animals.

This is an incredible opportunity for someone who has a deep sense of ownership in their work, thrives in a hands-on environment, and brings exceptional communication skills, strong follow-through and a keen eye for detail. The Animal Wellness Assistant will work directly under the Founder's guidance, gaining invaluable, hands-on experience while learning from her firsthand.

This role offers a unique mentorship opportunity and meaningful opportunities for growth within the organization. This is a part-time, onsite, outdoor position at our Santa Clarita, CA location. The schedule consists of 8-hour shifts on Sundays and Mondays, plus 2-hour evening shifts Tuesday through Thursday, totaling approximately 22 hours per week with the potential to grow into a full-time role.

Responsibilities

Support the healing and rehabilitation of new rescues and resident animals Assist in administering medications and supplements when needed Administer holistic wellness treatments to animals, including applying balms and ointments, changing bandages, and supporting overall healing and comfort through attentive care Maintain inventory of medications and supplies Transport animals to veterinarian facilities as needed Schedule and monitor practitioners/veterinarians while they are with the animals Purchase and pick up feed and/or supplies on a regular basis or when needs arise Maintain animal care documentation and photographic updates Proactively provide timely and accurate communication regarding animal health to the Founder Safely handle and restrain animals during treatments and procedures Report potential safety concerns to management Serve as the Founder's eyes and ears during travel, ensuring optimal care for the animals, clear communication, and thoughtful oversight in her absence Perform additional duties as assigned by the Founder Requirements: Must have horse experience Must have excellent verbal and written communication skills Must be organized and project manage effectively Must have exceptional attention to detail Must be comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions Must be able to work varying hours based on the needs of the organization Experience working with other large animals is a plus Prior animal medical knowledge is a plus Bilingual in Spanish and English is a plus Demonstrates compassion, kindness, and respect toward both animals and people Support the organization’s philosophy and advocate our positions on issues professionally Maintain a plant-based lifestyle while on property Valid driver’s license Perks & Benefits: Paid sick hours Direct mentorship from the Founder with hands-on learning opportunities Clear pathways for professional growth and advancement within the organization Supportive, mission-driven culture focused on compassion, collaboration, and well-being Physical Requirements: Lifting weight (feed, animals, equipment as needed) Working outdoors in varying weather conditions Stand, walk, bend, kneel, and squat for extended periods throughout the day Safe handle and work around large animals, including guiding, and assisting with movement when needed