The Lost Dogs’ Home is a leading animal welfare organisation in Victoria, celebrated for our compassionate care of around 18,000 lost and abandoned dogs and cats every year. Beyond caring for animals, we are dedicated to providing diverse animal welfare and community programs, all aimed at giving animals the best chance of a happy and healthy life. Our mission is upheld by passionate individuals who embody a profound affinity for animals, community, and advocacy.

Throughout the year we call on our passionate Adopted & Adored Ambassadors (people and their pets), to attend events around Melbourne - showing how shelter animals make great pets.

Most volunteer shifts are one to three hours and commonly occur on weekends.

This important volunteer position forms an integral part of our community outreach program and includes;

• Promoting the benefits of adopting a shelter animal
• Educating the public and assisting people towards better pet care
• Spending time mixing with the general public and community sectors including disability, aged, mental health & children during offsite visits

To be successful in this volunteer role, were are looking for people who have:

• Excellent verbal communication and public speaking skills
• Good animal handling skills and knowledge of dog body language and behavior
• Confidence conducting safe and friendly ‘meet & greets’ with their dog and members of the public
• Sound knowledge of the Home’s adoption program and other animal welfare services
• Availability for a minimum six-month commitment
• A valid Driver’s License and have access to reliable transportation for you and your dog
• A Working with Children Check

Your dog will also be;

• Adopted from The Lost Dogs’ Home
• Well-socialized and enjoy interacting with children, adults, and other dogs
• Comfortable within busy and noisy environments

Successful applicants will have their dogs assessed for suitability and will attend an induction workshop and a dog behaviour and handling seminar - all held at the Home in North Melbourne.

Due to the popularity of our volunteer program, we cannot guarantee that all candidates will be offered a volunteering opportunity. If you miss out this time, we encourage you to apply again in future as more opportunities become available.