Visiting Wag Team - Befriending An Older Person With Your Dog

Volunteering from Home

You and your special dog could make a huge difference to the lives of older dog lovers in your community by becoming a "Visiting Wag Team".
We are the only visiting dogs charity befriending older dog lovers in their own homes, as well as in care or in hospitals.
Many of our elderly friends are bereaved and isolated and miss the company of a dog. It only takes an hour or two most weeks for a chat and a furry cuddle, to make a difference.

We match people in places that are convenient to them.

Responsibilities

Wag & Company is the only visiting dog charity in the North East of England that befriends elderly people in their own homes, as well as in care settings and hospitals. Many of our elderly friends are bereaved, isolated, and deeply miss the companionship of a dog. A friendly visit, a chat, and a furry cuddle can bring so much joy to someone in need. With just an hour or two most weeks, you and your special dog could make a huge difference to the lives of older dog lovers in your community by becoming a "Visiting Wag Team".

Skills & Qualities

What we are looking for:

A friendly, well-behaved dog at least 18 months old who enjoys being handled.

A loving owner who has had their dog for at least six months and who is happy to follow our veterinary guidelines requiring some vaccination and prohibiting raw feeding to comply with national NHS standards for visiting dogs. Full details: www.wagandcompany.co.uk/volunteer/veterinary-guidance-for-friendship-dogs ..an hour or two most weeks or fortnights.

Most Wag Friendship Dogs simply love a cuddle and are under control, they aren’t obedience champions! If you think your dog would enjoy volunteering, check out the suitability and assessment criteria.: www.wagandcompany.co.uk/volunteer

When & Where?

Opportunities are available across County Durham.

Training and Support Offered/Expenses

We don't cover expenses but will find suitable placements for volunteers that are convenient and fit in with their life.

We do provide:
- Full assessment and support.
- Polo shirt for volunteers & bandana for dogs.
- Enhanced DBS check.

Our team is always on hand to offer support to volunteers as and when they need it. Full information can be shared upon application.

Volunteer Benefits

Making a really big difference to someone else's life, meeting lovely people, making new friends and listening to interesting stories.

Other Information

- Be over 18.
- Be the dog owner.
- Be prepared for your dog to under go and pass assessment.
- Be flexible to support the person/s you are selected to visit.

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Wag and Company More information
Type: Older People, Mentoring/Befriending

Apply now

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