At a Glance
- Tasks: Walk and socialise dogs, helping them prepare for their forever homes.
- Company: Join the RSPCA at Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, a community-focused animal welfare organisation.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, meet new friends, and make a real difference in animal welfare.
- Other info: Flexible hours, training provided, and travel expenses reimbursed.
- Why this job: Be part of a loving community that helps dogs find their forever homes.
- Qualifications: Must be 16+, with a good understanding of dog behaviour and a patient nature.
Available from 14 May 2026 to 14 November 2026
Do you like long walks with a canine companion? Are you happy to go out in all weathers, rain or shine? Would you like to help dogs who are looking for a new home? Lots of the dogs in our care have never been able to experience life in a loving home. Whilst they wait to be chosen by that special someone who can give them a second chance in a forever home, they receive lots of love, care and attention at our animal centres. Our volunteer dog walkers play an important role in helping our dogs find a new home. It's important that they get regular walks and have time for interaction with people and other dogs. This ensures they get the exercise they need, and also helps them develop the socialisation skills needed for successful rehoming. Ideally you'll be able to commit to a few hours each week.
Our dog walkers also provide valuable feedback about the dogs they walk to our centre staff about behaviours and progress. This volunteering opportunity may also include cleaning, disinfecting and maintaining kennels to a standard of cleanliness as required, as well as coat care and grooming. Because of the nature of some of our dogs or their history, it is important to follow instructions of the centre staff and stick to the guidelines given. Dogs should never be let off the lead (unless staff have advised otherwise). Some of our canine friends are strong, so a degree of physical strength is needed, along with some knowledge of dog behaviours. Don't worry, we'll help with training and ensure you feel confident before taking your first dog out. You'll make friends and meet new people, caring for canines whilst they wait for a new home. You may have lots of experience with dogs, or only a little. It doesn't matter as we'll give you the training that you need. Maybe you would like a dog but your lifestyle doesn't suit dog ownership at the moment. This could be the right role for you.
Please note that for this role you need to be over 18 years of age. Once you submit your application it may be up to two weeks before someone will be in touch. We are looking for volunteers that can give us at least 4 hours per week.
Volunteer role: Dog Walker
Volunteer manager: Centre Manager
Where you will be based: Community
Why we want you
We are the RSPCA and it's our vision to live in a world where all animals are respected and treated with compassion. Our volunteers are incredible, they play an essential role in helping us carry out our important animal welfare work every day. Many of the dogs in our care have never experienced life in a loving, family home. Whilst waiting for someone to give them a forever home, animals get all the care they need in one of our animal centres, and our volunteer dog walkers assist with walking and socialising the dogs, working with other volunteers and staff to ensure that the dogs receive the appropriate exercise and care.
What you will be doing
- Walking allocated dogs as directed by the volunteer coordinator or member of staff
- Ensuring that dogs are kept on a lead at all times
- Following the dog walking guidelines provided by the centre
- Following all health and safety rules and guidelines, and ensuring that any accidents or incidents are reported immediately, using the procedure in place at the centre
- Assisting with the assessment of dogs when directed by staff and where appropriate
- Attending appropriate training courses as required by the centre
The skills you need
- Volunteers must be aged 16 or over - some centres may require you to be aged 18 years or over.
- A good knowledge of dogs and ability to read their behaviour
- Must feel comfortable around dogs and have a patient and understanding nature
- Able and confident to walk dogs of all ages and sizes
- Must have the ability to follow instructions as some of our dogs can be strong and need training so good physical health is necessary
What's in it for you
- Meet new people and make new friends
- Learn great new skills to add to your CV
- A great induction and training relevant to your role
- Volunteer in a fun environment at the heart of the local community
- You'll be making a huge difference to the welfare of animals
- We are happy to reimburse any reasonable travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us
Disclaimer
Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees. Before you can start volunteering you'll need to complete our simple online Health & Safety assessment. At the RSPCA we don't want you to be out of pocket by volunteering, so we are happy to reimburse any agreed out of pocket expenses you incur whilst volunteering. All volunteer dog walkers must ensure that they use the appropriate equipment that has been provided by the centre and that this equipment is returned to the centre as directed at the end of the volunteering session. If a volunteer has any concerns or questions regarding a particular dog or their role as a dog walker, they should speak to a member of staff or the volunteer coordinator, if applicable, immediately.
Dog Walker (Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, Aylesbury) employer: Job Search Place Limited
At Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that values the dedication of our volunteers. By joining our team as a Dog Walker, you'll not only contribute to the welfare of dogs in need but also enjoy a supportive work culture that fosters personal growth and community engagement. With comprehensive training provided and the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals, your time with us will be both meaningful and rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Dog Walker (Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, Aylesbury)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the centre and its staff! Before you start walking dogs, pop in for a chat. Building relationships with the team will help you understand their needs and expectations, plus it shows your commitment.
✨Tip Number 2
Be proactive! If you see a dog that catches your eye, don’t hesitate to ask about them. Showing enthusiasm can set you apart and demonstrate your genuine interest in helping the dogs find their forever homes.
✨Tip Number 3
Stay flexible and open-minded. Some dogs may require more patience or special handling. Being adaptable will not only make your experience more enjoyable but also help the dogs feel more comfortable during walks.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to share your experiences! Providing feedback on the dogs you walk is crucial. It helps the staff understand each dog's behaviour and needs better, which ultimately aids in their rehoming process.
We think you need these skills to ace Dog Walker (Blackberry Farm Animal Centre, Aylesbury)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to know who you are and why you’re passionate about helping dogs. Don’t be shy – share your experiences, even if they’re just a love for canines!
Follow the Guidelines:Make sure to read the job description carefully and tailor your application to highlight how you meet the requirements. Mention any relevant experience with dogs or volunteering, and show us that you understand the importance of following instructions.
Show Your Commitment:We’re looking for volunteers who can dedicate at least 4 hours a week. In your application, express your availability and commitment to helping our furry friends. This will show us that you’re serious about making a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to hit that 'apply' button on our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and get in touch. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team at Blackberry Farm Animal Centre!
How to prepare for a job interview at Job Search Place Limited
✨Know Your Canines
Brush up on your dog behaviour knowledge before the interview. Familiarise yourself with different breeds and their traits, as well as common commands and training techniques. This will show that you’re not just a dog lover but also someone who understands their needs.
✨Show Your Commitment
Be ready to discuss your availability and willingness to commit to the role. Since they’re looking for volunteers who can dedicate at least 4 hours a week, it’s important to express your enthusiasm for helping dogs find their forever homes.
✨Ask Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the centre. Inquire about the types of dogs you might be walking, the training provided, or how feedback is shared with staff. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand what to expect.
✨Follow the Guidelines
Familiarise yourself with the guidelines mentioned in the job description, such as keeping dogs on a lead and following health and safety rules. Being knowledgeable about these protocols will demonstrate your readiness to adhere to their standards and ensure the safety of the dogs.
