VOLUNTEERING FOR THE DOGS’ HOMES OF TASMANIA 

Volunteers assist us with dog walking at our four homes.

All volunteer dog walkers must attend an information session and then complete an on-site induction.  These sessions are held at each home as volunteers are required, and if you register your interest we will advise you when a session is planned.  

It takes time to train volunteers, so we ask for a minimum time commitment from every volunteer: walking for a minimum of 3-4 hours weekly or fortnightly for at least six months. 

Essential Requirements

Volunteers must be able to manage all kinds of dogs –   including large and untrained dogs –  without assistance or support from another person. 

Walking hours vary between Homes, but are generally between 8.30 and 3.30 seven days a week. 

Dogs are walked on tracks around the Homes and there are uneven surfaces, dirt roads/paths, hills and slippery conditions.

Dog walking volunteers must be able to 

  • walk at least 3 km in grounds that include uneven surfaces and steep slopes.
  • bend at the waist and knees, lift up to 12 kilos
  • interact with dogs calmly and respond appropriately when dogs are over-excited or are reacting to other dogs.
  • observe what is going on around them, identify and avoid potential hazards such as other dogs on lead, wildlife and traffic
  • understand and follow directions from staff
  • observe and provide information regarding the dog’s behaviour and reactions to other dogs and people while walking
  • read, understand and observe simple written instructions, including pen numbers and information about individual dogs.

Dog walkers must also be aged over 16, and must be able to obtain a Working With Vulnerable People Certificate or a Police Check.  Please note that unfortunately we don’t have the resources to give any records of volunteer hours if required for job seeker or visa requirements. 

Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania is committed to force-free, reward-based training, and all dog walking volunteers are trained in and expected to use these methods. ‘Corrections’ such as lead jerks, yelling or punishment are not permitted.

If you’d like us to advise when you when there is a session planned in your area, please complete your details by following the link  below. 

Please note that we are not taking applications for Hobart dog walking volunteers as all positions are currently filled. We are still taking applications for all other sites. 

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