i edited and expanded my post quickly, already covering your points.

from the info given, i dont think this actual GSD was dangerous per se, just a stressed dog trying to create some distance between itself and OP.

meds should be done outside, where/when dog is happy (according to OP) .

these situations do arise(in my job too) but you should never be ALONE.
i agree with the post above.

absolutely

Have you seen my reply?

yes, but it doesnt mention anything about someone being with you?
assuming that is what you are referring to?

No sorry, i just meant in general, no there where other workers in the kennel block but i was alone in the kennel.

Meant to add, if a dog gets ill because its meds cannot be administered, the insurance will NOT cover it, they do not cover pre-existing conditions.

This is true and why it can make things difficult sometimes.

Interesting topic of conversation - I used to work as Kennel Assistant at a Boarding Kennels and relatively frequently found myself having to deal with "difficult" dogs. Be it aggression around the lead/collar or indeed "kennel guarding".

Like you, I often found myself having to deal with this on my own. By bosses were fab and would never make me do anything that I didn't feel comfortable doing but I do recall a time when they were away on holiday, having left me in charge, when a customer brought in two Rotties whom were soft as muck initially but turned aggressive (guarding the kennel to the point where we're talking about jumping up snarling, frothing at the mouth, deep growling, snapping at the bars, etc). Funnily enough, they were soft as muck again out of the kennel block.

Sadly most kennel assistants don't get paid much (if anything!) above minimum wage but are often left in situations like this to deal with them on their own.

I would like to see a time when this doesn't happen but alas I don't think it will ever happen.

It sounds like you already do the right sort of thing (not showing any fear, not making much eye contact, etc). Good luck in future.

And, my biggest tip is to get the dog(s) out of the kennel ASAP to administer drugs, etc. Works a treat usually. If that still doesn't work then a Vet is required - they get paid more money to get bitten

LOL.

and then when the vet turns up they get you to hold the unfriendly end of the dog anyway!

as most british vets and vet nurses have pretty poor handling skills and are easily scared.

now, antipodean vets over here on work experience - they are a different kettle of fish

Hi, on a general basis you may find Barbara Sykes book on aggression an interesting read and also one of her TLC courses may be useful to you.