ARE you passionate about pooches?

Dogs Trust Ilfracombe is in need of volunteers and is appealing to local dog lovers to help.

Although the charity has a dedicated team of staff, Dogs Trust also relies on the support of its volunteers to help give hundreds of unwanted and abandoned dogs the care they need while they await new homes.

Volunteers are vital to the smooth running of Dogs Trust Ilfracombe and the rehoming centre currently has a variety of roles available, from Kennel Assistants to Home Visitors and Foster Carers to Events Volunteers.

Sally Ellis, Rehoming Centre Manager at Dogs Trust Ilfracombe said: “Our volunteers are extremely important to us and we couldn’t care for as many dogs as we do without their help.

"We are always on the lookout for new recruits and really hope these exciting opportunities will appeal to a wide range of people.

"All volunteers will have full training to help them get to grips with their new roles and will get to meet plenty of furry friends along the way.

"If you think you could spare some time to lend a hand, please get in touch.”

More information about our volunteer roles: 

Kennel Assistants

Kennel Assistants are needed every day help with the day to day tasks.

A typical morning would be cleaning and walking dogs so be prepared to get dirty. 

The afternoon is a bit more relaxed with more time to spend grooming the dogs, having a cuddle in the real life room and taking part in some basic training.

We are also always on the lookout for keen Gardeners to help keep the grounds looking beautiful and with over 60 canine residents, there is always lots of laundry to be done.

Home Visitors

Dogs Trust visits all potential new owners to make sure they are ready for their new companion.

We rely on volunteers for this because of their local area knowledge and flexibility to travel to towns that may be a bit further afield.

It also enables staff to spend more time with the dogs in their care as they await their forever homes.

Home From Home Scheme

The Home From Home Scheme helps to give some of the residents who are in need of some extra TLC, a chance to enjoy some home comforts while they await their forever homes.

We are looking for experienced foster carers to take these dogs in on a temporary basis. Dogs Trust will supply food and always be on hand to help with any queries.

It is a lovely opportunity to help the dogs to prepare for life in a new home.

Events Volunteers

Volunteers are needed to help out at various local and rehoming centre events throughout the year.

We are looking for people who are happy speaking with the public and would like to help spread the Dogs Trust message.

If you are interested in volunteering, please call Dogs Trust Ilfracombe on 0300 303 0292 or visit the centre at West Down, Ilfracombe, North Devon, EX34 8NU for further details on how you can help.