'Dogs helping people'
Learn more about volunteering here
Ready to team up with your best buddy and make a real impact? PAWS Pet Therapy is on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers who want to bring joy and comfort to others! With PAWS, you'll get all the training, support, and gear you need to deliver safe and effective pet therapy. Our course includes a handy training manual you can work through at your own pace, some helpful tips on basic dog obedience, and a fun training and assessment day, either in person or via ZOOM. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life and with dogs of every shape, size, and breed. You'll stay updated on the latest pet therapy practices and have input when we match you and your dog to a facility. We're thrilled to announce that after starting our non-profit in New South Wales, we're now expanding to new states and territories. We can’t wait for everyone to join in on the fun!
So, what’s in store when you join the PAWS team? From our initial talks till your assessment and beyond, we will be with you all the way. When we see that you and your dog are a perfect match for the team, and you're both excited to dive into this adventure, your fun and rewarding journey will kick off! For a one-time fee of $275, you will not only join a wonderful team you'll also get a whole lot of goodies and support. You’ll gain access to our fantastic training course and all the support you need. You’ll receive a stylish volunteer uniform, including a professional polo and a handy bum bag, along with a chic dog uniform featuring a lead and vest, all adorned with the PAWS logo. Your visit bag will be stocked with essentials like a water bowl, hand gel, dog wipes, clean-up bags, a basic first aid kit, and a folder for important paperwork. We’ll offer expert advice and support for dog training, and you’ll attend a PAWS assessment and training day, either in person or via ZOOM. Throughout your journey, you'll enjoy ongoing support and contact, placement at a facility that suits you and your pup, insurance coverage for peace of mind, regular visit scheduling, and exciting chances to participate in social events with fellow volunteers. And if times are tight, don’t worry—just a $150 deposit gets you started, and you can pay the rest in installments if needed.
PAWS volunteers are trained to deliver a top-notch pet therapy service through a comprehensive course and training package. Unit 1 of the PAWS Pet Therapy course introduces you to the essentials of pet therapy. This includes exploring the history and benefits of pet therapy, understanding pet assessment standards, and receiving practical guidance on basic obedience. You’ll also learn about the necessary equipment, visit protocols, and tips for preparing both yourself and your dog for therapy visits. This unit covers how to position your dog for safe and effective client interactions, the dos and don’ts of visiting, and how to manage your dog's well-being, including addressing pet burnout, stress, and fatigue. Health, safety, and risk management are also key topics. Unit 2, "Pet Therapy for Individuals," emphasises customising pet therapy to address a wide range of special needs. You will gain practical advice on how to structure visits to enhance the benefits for individuals with communication challenges, physical disabilities, mental health concerns, and dementia. The unit also covers strategies for those who are elderly and frail, receiving palliative care, undergoing chemotherapy or dialysis, as well as children, including those with autism spectrum disorder. Additionally, it addresses the needs of individuals recovering from a stroke, those with hearing or visual impairments, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) backgrounds, those who are non-responsive, and individuals exhibiting challenging behaviors. Unit 3 of the PAWS course highlights why PAWS dogs are our top priority. This unit covers the dynamics of visiting with another team, setting and maintaining boundaries, and documentation and reporting requirements. You'll also learn about effective communication, confidentiality, and how to promote and represent PAWS Pet Therapy. Once you’ve completed the course, you and your dog will be invited to attend a training and assessment day, which can be done in person or remotely via ZOOM depending on your location. Following this, you'll receive support as you begin your rewarding volunteer work.
Getting started
The PAWS course
What makes us and you special
At PAWS, we’re dedicated to providing an exceptional pet therapy experience, and we believe that our volunteers and their furry companions are the heart of what makes us special. And that's not all! What truly sets PAWS apart is the unwavering support and care we provide. From our dedicated team behind the scenes and background committee members to Sharon, our passionate CEO, everyone at PAWS is committed to the welfare of our dogs and the people we visit. We’re here to make your volunteering experience as rewarding and enjoyable as possible. Our team is always available to support you throughout your journey, making it not just fulfilling but also fun and, at times, life-changing. Our volunteers are celebrated for their professionalism and compassion. They are warmly embraced by clients, families, and staff at the facilities they visit. The smiles, positive feedback, and unexpected reactions from clients are constant reminders of the meaningful impact you make. Your generosity and dedication are recognised and rewarded through these special moments, reinforcing the value and joy of your volunteer work. Join PAWS and be part of a community that cherishes every visit and values the incredible bond between our volunteers and their dogs.
Want to know more?
Ready to join?
