At The Ark, we believe it is vital to ensure that our dogs have the richest possible environment that we can provide, this includes regular time out of their kennels – walking, playing and socialising.
All of our dogs have a minimum of two walks each day and it is our large ‘band’ of volunteer dog walkers that enable us to achieve this.
Dog Walking Sessions
We have two sessions each day from 9.30 – 12 midday and 2.00 – 4.00 p.m.
The dog walking is primarily undertaken on our site, and there are facilities to play, and socialise, with the dogs, in addition to taking them for their walks.
Volunteer Dog Walkers
In order to be a dog walking volunteer, you must…
- be at least 18 years of age and have some experience with dogs (e.g. through ownership)
- be willing to attend at least one full dog walking session per week on a regular, long term basis
- undertake our induction
Induction & Training
There are two elements to our induction and training :
- a briefing on our health and safety procedures, principles of caring for and managing the dogs at The Ark, routines and procedures relating to dog walking, handling etc.
- hands-on practical work with one of our experienced dog walkers, where you undertake some supervised dog walking and become familiar with the routines and procedures on our site.
Once the induction has been completed, as a new walker, you can take dogs out without assistance. Initially, there will be an identified contact person at your sessions who you can talk to and get any help you might need. In addition, staff are always on hand to answer any queries and give assistance.
Our dogs also have training programmes and attend training sessions with our Companion Animal Behaviourist. Our dog walkers are encouraged to attend these training sessions and to continue with the dogs’ training programmes when walking them and interacting with them.
If you think that being a volunteer dog walker might be for you, then please don’t hesitate to contact: arkdogwalkers@aol.com