In this role you will provide a temporary home for a dog, using the support and guidance of Guide Dogs for the welfare and handling of the dog.
What you’ll be doing
We rely on volunteers like you to help us improve the lives of people with sight loss. In this role your support will include:
Providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for a dog
Looking after a dog at your home full time for a short period of time
Being available to drive the dog to a specified location when required e.g., vets
Ensuring the dog is fed, exercised, and cared for to maintain excellent health
Using positive reinforcement training techniques to teach or maintain behaviours
Ensuring the dog is not left alone for more than 4 hours in a 24-hour period
You’ll have
Ideally you will:
Have a home with a safely fenced garden or safe area for the dog go to the toilet
Have dog handling experience but not essential
Be a confident and conscientious driver and have access to a car you are insured to drive
If you don’t feel you tick every box but are sure this role is the one for you, do contact us and tell us why. We’re open to suggestions and happy to chat with you to find out what’s possible!
You’ll get
Volunteering is a two-way street, so in return for your time you will get a dedicated volunteer manager/key contact who will help you settle in and support you during your time with us.
You’ll also get:
The opportunity to care for and have the companionship of a dog for a short period of time
Dedicated support to develop your dog handling and welfare knowledge
The satisfaction knowing you are supporting people with sight loss to live actively, independently, and well, through supporting our dogs in training
Expenses reimbursed: Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any expenses related to your volunteering with us in line with our policy.
Training provided: This role has 6 to 8 hours of training and then you’ll be ready to go! These modules include: Dog knowledge, care, and handling.
If you have questions about the training requirements, we can answer these at your informal chat along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.
Selection procedure: An informal chat, application form completion and two references.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us using the form below.