AM Dog Care Volunteer

Members of the GTHS Dog Care Team work with puppies and dogs of all sizes, shapes and backgrounds (stray, surrendered, neglected, abused, healthy, recovering from surgery, may be easy to handle or may require training for behavioural issues…).

Annually, our Cat and Dog Care Teams care for more than 1500 animals onsite at our Animal Centre.

Description
Reporting to the Dog Care Coordinator, AM Dog Care Volunteers help to maintain the health and welfare of GTHS dogs. This role entails taking care of our dogs’ environment by cleaning their kennels and outdoor runs, and being responsible for food preparation and feeding our dogs their breakfast. If interested and when time permits, AM Dog Care Volunteers interact with our dogs by assisting with our Canine Enrichment Program.

Time Commitment
A minimum commitment of one shift per week is required. AM Dog Care shifts are Monday through Sunday, 7.30am-9am. An overall minimum commitment of 6 months is required.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assist in the maintenance of dogs’ health and welfare
  • Maintain clean and organized kennels (inside and outside)
  • Disinfect kennels and toys
  • Prepare and provide treats, breakfast and clean water as required or instructed
  • Wash up any dirty animal dishes (in Animal Equipment Room)
  • Assist with Animal Centre laundry (washing, drying and folding linens)
  • Dispose of garbage and recyclables
  • Ensure dogs are safe and secure
• If interested and time permits:
  • Dog bathing, grooming, Room 5 petting, time in Dog Yard or X-Pen
  • Interact with dogs for walks, training and socialization
  • Reinforce behaviours that make dogs more adoptable
• Follow appropriate protocol, policies and procedures
• Use online Contact List & Schedule to reflect any absences and to coordinate shift coverage

Qualifications

• 15 years of age minimum
• A commitment to animal welfare
• A gentle and kind approach to dog handling
• Self motivated
• Ability to work alone and in a team environment
• Ability to follow protocol
• Must by physically capable of sweeping, mopping, hosing and scrubbing

To interact with GTHS dogs:

• Must be confident with dogs
• Current dog handling and/or training experience is required
• Medium and/or large dog experience is required
• Willingness and ability to complete the GTHS Dog Care Program (training from Green to Yellow Dog Walker status) is a must upon joining the Dog Care Team, as is the completion of any future intermittent training