The training team at Guide Dogs NSW/ACT is seeking expressions of interest from volunteers willing and able to assist with our Guide Dog Training Intake Program.

About the program: At around 12 months of age our puppies leave their puppy raising families and return to the Guide Dogs Centre at Glossodia for assessment and training. This is a fabulous opportunity to make each pup’s transition a positive one by spending time patting, playing and working with them alongside their trainers and animal attendants.

Intake takes place every 3 weeks. Prospective volunteers should be able to volunteer at least once during the Intake week.

Tasks might include:

• Setting up the kennel environment and socialisation pens in readiness for the new arrivals
• Providing enrichment and socialisation opportunities
• Toileting and picking up after the dogs
• Grooming
• Moving the dogs around the kennel environment
• Providing the new arrivals with opportunities to practise skills acquired in their puppy raising homes, e.g.: sit, down, stay etc.
• Assisting kennel staff to monitor & reduce kennel noise

Essential:

• Ability to manage large, young, robust dogs
• Ability to stand for long periods of time

Much of the work will be performed outdoors so volunteers should also be prepared for extreme temperatures.

NB: Applicants must be over 18 years of age.