Volunteer Role Description
Dog Enrichment- Open Paw
Aim of volunteering role: To assist our animal care staff in providing enrichment, training and social skills using the Open Paw program for dogs who are waiting to be re-homed.
Tasks:
1. To be trained on the Open Paw Program to the appropriate level (please refer to the Open Paw information sheet) and to use that training with nominated dogs. This also includes walking dogs/preparing food Kongs.
2. To follow all instruction given by staff on how to handle each dog and what treats can be fed.
3. To not take dogs off site unless permission has been granted.
4. To pick up faeces from that dog whilst in your care in a bag provided, and deposit in correct bin
5. To follow all instruction given on health & safety, including PPE, tetanus cover and manual handling and to undergo any relevant training
6. To wear a reflective vest indicating volunteer (provided)
Days available: Please contact the volunteer coordinator for days available.
Commitment: Once training is completed, one session per week or fortnight on a regular agreed day either 10-12.30pm, or 2-4pm.
Training: You must attend training sessions on each Open Paw level and you will not progress to the next level until training staff are confident you are able to carry out training as instructed. This requires a high level of commitment from volunteers- but the rewards are great!
Location: Heaven’s Gate Farm, West Henley, Langport, Somerset, TA10 9BE
Transport needed: Due to the location of the centre, volunteers require own transport. There are no public transport links to the centre.
Skills required: Please note that the minimum age requirement for this role is 18
1. Interest in and commitment to the work of the Trust.
2. Some experience of dog ownership and/or training is preferred.
3. Interest in and ability to work with dogs using reward based positive reinforcement training.
4. A calm, friendly personality, patience, flexibility and the ability to follow instruction.
5. Relatively good physical fitness
Benefits offered:
1. An ideal role for anyone who is passionate about dogs and animal welfare!
2. A free dog training program
3. Tea, coffee provided for break times
4. Full insurance cover
5. Reference available after 3 months volunteering
Application process: Please note that all new applicants must complete the NAWT Volunteer Application Form (including providing two references). If invited for interview, any successful applicants will have a Health & Safety Induction and any appropriate training (which may be several training sessions) before becoming a volunteer. Any appropriate additional training offered must be undertaken.
Any current NAWT volunteers wishing to apply for this role should contact the Volunteer Coordinator: Georgina Smith at or 01458 252 656
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