Our Home Whelpers are responsible for providing a safe, secure and welcoming home to one of our Breeding Dogs (Broods) during the whelping (birthing) process and for approximately 8 weeks after. During this time, they are responsible for the health and welfare of the brood and her litter, and play a key role in the early development and socialization of the puppies. You are given full support by dedicated staff, including during the birthing process.

This role is sporadic, lasting for approximately 9 weeks at a time, and can occur any time through the year.

Key responsibilities • Provide a safe and secure environment for one of our breeding dogs (Brood) commencing approximately one week before the due date. • With the assistance of Guide Dogs WA staff, support the brood during the birthing process, ensuring the safe delivery of the litter. • Take care of the brood and newborn litter for the first 8 weeks of life, following Guide Dogs WA guidelines for the care of newborns and early socialisation procedures.

Time and availability requirements This role involves the care of the brood and litter for approximately 9 weeks at a time, beginning one week before the brood is due to whelp. Whilst the role will require the volunteer to be available 7 days a week including the possibility of overnight work whilst the brood is whelping, this is a very unique opportunity which will allow the person to be involved in the birth and early development of the organisation’s future Guide Assistance Dogs.

Occasionally, there may be opportunities to take care of litters of puppies for shorter periods of time, in case of an emergency or other situation that may occur.

Other requirements • Provide a safe and loving home for our dogs, including having allowing the dog to live and sleep inside the house. • Have a secure fenced yard with access to an outside area. • Able to devote time to the brood. • Previous experience whelping litters or caring for newborn puppies will be highly regarded. • Physical capacity to safely walk and handle a large dog (up to 40kg) on a daily basis.