At Dogs Trust, volunteering is more than just lending a hand — it’s your chance to change the lives of rescue dogs across the UK.
Whether you’re walking waggy tails at one of our rehoming centres, helping out in a charity shop, or supporting our work from the comfort of your own home, there’s a place for you on our team.
Last year alone, thanks to our amazing staff and volunteers, we:
- Cared for 12,546 dogs across our 22 rehoming centres
- Found loving homes for 9,707 dogs
- Responded to 51,804 handover enquiries
- Supported 258 families and their dogs fleeing domestic violence
There’s a Role for Everyone
We have a wide range of volunteer opportunities to match different interests and skills, including:
Taking dogs for walks and creating fun, enriching experiences in our kennels
Helps keep our dogs physically active, mentally stimulated, and emotionally happy while they wait for their forever homes.
Working with our media team to help promote dogs on their rehoming journey
Gives dogs the visibility they need to find loving homes by showcasing their unique personalities to potential adopters.
Gardening and keeping our rehoming centre grounds looking great
Creates a calm, welcoming environment for visitors, staff, and—most importantly—for the dogs in our care.
Welcoming visitors and supporting our team at reception
Provides a friendly first impression and helps guide people through the adoption journey, events, or general centre visits.
Assisting with events and community activities
Raises awareness of our work, builds local support, and helps us reach more people (and potential dog-lovers!).
Providing admin support to help match dogs with their perfect homes
Keeps things running smoothly behind the scenes—making sure each dog finds the right home, quicker.
Volunteering in our charity shops or donation warehouses
Raises essential funds that directly support the dogs in our care and helps spread the word about our mission.
Supporting our incredible network of foster carers
Ensures our foster carers have the help they need to provide safe, loving temporary homes for dogs who need a break from kennel life.
Becoming a foster carer yourself and giving a dog a temporary loving home
Offers a vital lifeline to dogs recovering from medical treatment, puppies too young for kennels, or those who simply need a quieter space.
And plenty more!
No matter what role you choose, your support helps us move closer to a day where every dog can enjoy a happy life, free from the threat of unnecessary destruction.
No experience? No problem. We’ll provide all the training and support you need to feel confident in your role.
Why Volunteer With Us?
- You’ll learn new skills – from animal care to teamwork and communication
- You’ll meet like-minded people who share your love for dogs
- You’ll be part of a supportive, passionate community
- Most importantly, you’ll be making a real difference to the lives of rescue dogs who need it most
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways you can support our mission — helping dogs get back on their paws and into loving homes.
So why not join us? Give your time, grow your skills, and help make the world a little kinder for dogs in need.
All of our vacancies are to be found here Volunteer Vacancies | Dogs Trust or you can email us at volunteering@dogstrust.org.uk