Dog Socialiser

At Assistance Dogs Australia, we breed, raise, and train highly skilled assistance dogs that empower people with physical disabilities, PTSD, and autism to live more independent and connected lives. As a Volunteer Dog Socialiser, you will play an important role in supporting the physical, emotional, and social wellbeing of our dogs while they progress through their training journey. Working alongside our experienced welfare and training teams, you will help provide positive social interaction, enrichment activities, grooming, and general care to ensure our dogs remain happy, healthy, and engaged. Your contribution may seem simple-a walk, a grooming session, a game, or a moment of companionship-but every interaction helps shape a future assistance dog and contributes to someone's independence, confidence, and quality of life.

What You'll Be Doing

• Providing positive social interaction, companionship, and play opportunities
• Supporting dogs through enrichment activities and confidence-building experiences
• Assisting with grooming, brushing, bathing, and general presentation
• Helping maintain clean and hygienic kennel environments
• Assisting with feeding routines and monitoring dog wellbeing
• Observing and reporting any changes in behaviour or health
• Supporting staff with general dog care and welfare activities

We're Looking For People Who

• Have a genuine passion for dogs and animal welfare
• Are reliable, patient, and compassionate
• Can follow instructions and training protocols consistently
• Have good observation and communication skills
• Are comfortable working in an animal care environment
• Can perform light physical activities such as walking dogs, cleaning, and handling equipment
• Are willing to complete required background checks

Previous dog handling experience is welcomed but not required.