Volunteer Fosterer – Training
In this role you will provide a temporary home for a dog in training, 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
Ensuring the dog is fed, exercised, and cared for to maintain excellent health
Dropping off and collecting their dog from a Guide Dogs location. Times vary but are normally Monday to Friday between 8-9am and 5-6pm
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
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, please drop us a message and tell us why. We’re open to suggestions and happy to chat with you to find out what’s possible!
Training and support
his 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 discussion along with any other support or accessibility needs you may have.
“Fostering ticked all the boxes for me – having a dog at home around work, helping a worthy organisation, and developing a greater understanding and appreciation of what Guide Dogs’ trainers do.” – Lindsay, Fosterer
Time commitment: A suggested weekly time commitment is 4 hours, days and hours negotiable with the organisation.
Expenses reimbursed: Out of pocket expenses are reimbursed.
Training provided: Full training is provided.
Selection procedure: Informal discussion, application form completion, 2 references and a disclosure and barring check (cost met by organisation).
If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact us using the form below.