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Volunteer Development Scotland Ltd. (also known as Volunteer Scotland).
Charity registered in Scotland SC013740 and a company limited by guarantee, registered in Scotland, No. SC106743. Our registered Office is Jubilee House, Forthside Way, Stirling. FK8 1QZ

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Early Training Fosterer

Are you a dog lover with room in your home to look after a dog during evenings and weekends? This could be the perfect role for you!
As a Training Dog Fosterer, you’ll be giving a dog in training a loving home whilst they embark on their journey to become a guide dog. You’ll get to see the progress your furry companion is making in their training and be a vital part of their journey, without the commitment of looking after a dog full time.
In this rewarding role, your support for a guide dog in training will include:
• Doing the school run for your dog in training! This will typically involve dropping them off and
picking them up at an agreed time Monday to Friday at our site in Hamilton, ML3 6JT. Drop off between 8 and 9am and collect between 5-5.45pm.
• Caring for your dog in your home such as feeding, grooming, free running and playing, following
the advice of our expert staff.
• Helping your dog keep up with their training by reinforcing the techniques at home from our first
class training programme.
• Making sure your dog is not left alone for more than four hours in a 24-hour period. If you’re
planning on going on holiday, let us know at your initial phone call so we can plan alternative cover for your future life changer.

For more information, visit: https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/how-you-can-help/volunteering/volunteer-with-our-dogs/fosterer/ or contact Emma at VolAttractNorth@guidedogs.org.uk

Experience required

If you’re hoping to foster a guide dog in training, here’s what we ideally look for:
Being close to our Hamilton site so that your dog can get to their training.
The agreement of your landlord to have a dog in your home if you rent your home.
A safe and secure area outside for the dog to go to the toilet

Travel details

Based in your home, local area and travelling to and from Hamilton, ML3 6JT.

Travel expenses

rates.
Volunteering for Guide Dogs should never leave you out of pocket. We’ll make sure we pay any expenses
related to volunteering with us, including veterinary costs, dog food costs and other materials needed for
your dog’s training.

Dates

9 January - 30 April 2026

Restrictions

Minimum age: 18

Frequency & commitment
You would likely have a dog from 12-20 weeks.

Volunteers (aged 18-25) taking part in this opportunity are eligible to claim Saltire Awards hours for their activity.
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