Do you know a non-sighthound dog who’d be happy to volunteer their time, helping rescue sighthounds on their way to life as a much-loved pet? Socialisation with non-sighthound dogs (especially smaller breeds) is a huge part of the rehabilitation work we carry out with the dogs in our care. Many of the dogs we help have never seen another dog that looks different to themselves, and need some help learning how to feel comfortable around them.
We are looking for small breed dog volunteers in particular, but also medium and large dogs who don’t look anything like greyhounds or lurchers! To be suited to this important role, our doggie volunteers need to be:
- Totally comfortable, calm and confident around large, boisterous dogs who may have minimal social skills. We are extremely careful to never put our volunteer dogs at any physical risk, but we also need to be sure they won’t feel worried about being around the dogs in our care.
- Keen to meet and socially interact with other dogs (when it is safe and appropriate to do so).
- Not show any reactive, defensive or fearful behaviour towards other dogs (especially large, bouncy dogs).
- In good enough physical health to cope with at least 30 minutes gentle walking per session.
This is a very flexible volunteering role, but ideally we would like our doggie volunteers and their guardians to be able to commit to regular visits (this could be weekly, fortnightly, or monthly to suit you). You must be able to travel to our Somerset kennels (near Bath). All sessions will be carried out under the supervision of a behaviourist, with the physical safety and emotional wellbeing of your dog considered a priority. Please email dogs@foreverhoundstrust.org for further information, or to offer help!
Thank you!
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