Pet Therapy Visits – Volunteer with Your Canine Companion (Hamilton)

Hamilton

Organisation Canine Friends Pet Therapy
Category Social Support
Hours Both/Flexible

We’re seeking warm, friendly people who enjoy connecting with others, especially older adults. If you’re confident, a good listener, and comfortable chatting with a wide range of people, this could be a beautiful way to give back to your community.

Your dog will need to be over one year old, well behaved, sociable, and calm. The ideal therapy dog is happy to sit quietly beside residents, enjoys being gently patted, and loves a cuddle. Dogs that thrive on human connection often take naturally to this work.

A simple visit from a friendly face — and a wagging tail — can brighten someone’s whole week. It’s incredibly special to witness the comfort and joy these moments bring.

If you and your dog have a gentle nature and a bit of time to share, we would love to hear from you.

Requirements:

For You:

  • A warm, patient and reliable nature
  • Confidence engaging with older adults, including those living with dementia
  • Good listening skills and the ability to hold gentle conversation
  • Respect for privacy and dignity in aged care settings
  • Ability to commit to regular visits
  • Willingness to complete any required training and assessments
  • Police vetting (as required for working in aged care environments)

For Your Dog:

  • At least 12 months old
  • Calm, friendly and sociable with strangers
  • Comfortable in wheelchairs, walking frames and medical environments
  • Happy to be touched gently and handled by different people
  • Able to sit or lie quietly for periods of time
  • Fully vaccinated, healthy and well groomed
  • Successful completion of a temperament assessment

A Ministry of Justice background check is required for this role.

Time commitment:

  • Minimum 2 hours per month
  • Flexible days and times, arranged with the facility
  • Visits may be weekly or fortnightly
  • Each visit lasts up to one hour

Getting started:

The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.

Ref: 3205

Apply for this role

Application form

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