How to Become a Volunteer Dog Walker

Maria Taylor

There are millions of older and disabled people in England who can’t afford dog walking fees, so appreciate organisations and volunteers that give their dogs regular walks, to keep them happy and healthy. And enable dogs to stay with much-loved guardians.

The Cinnamon Trust is the UK’s only national charity dedicated to helping older people and those with terminal illnesses care for their much-loved pets. With the support of a nationwide network of volunteers, they provide practical assistance to owners whenever pet care becomes a problem, including dog walking.

Registering as a dog-walking volunteer is an ideal opportunity for people who love dogs and walking, but are unable (due to circumstances) to short-term or forever foster dogs themselves (this is different from adoption, in that they pay vet bills, can provide animal welfare advice and don’t charge for the fostering match).

Most volunteers also carry out other duties like pet-taxi services, fostering for hospital stays or looking after other pets (like changing cat litter trays).

Before walks, research dog-friendly parks and know how to keep dogs safe at the seaside. Also learn of toxic foods and plants.

Also read info on quick-release dog collars (secured on walks by linking lead through D-rings which break off, if dogs entangle).

The Cinnamon Trust was named after the founder’s 17-year Corgi (who sadly died the same year the charity was founded). Whether it’s matching volunteers for dog walking, or other pet assistance, each pet is always thoughtfully paired with volunteers based on proximity, pet needs and the volunteer’s experience with different pets and breeds.

In addition to dog walking, volunteers support owners and their pets in many other ways – taking pets to the vet, cleaning litter trays, brushing cats, collecting pet food as well as providing short-term fostering during hospital stays.

Volunteers and animal lovers can also become forever fosterers to pets who have been entrusted to the charity to make thoughtful decisions for their pet, in the event they have to move into a nursing home or pass away.

During the Pet Profiling process, owners share important information about their pet’s routine, medical needs, personality and diet, allowing The Trust to understand the true character and needs of each pet, and ensure a caring and stress-free transition for their beloved companion when the time comes.

The Trust oversees all animals in forever foster homes and pays all vet bills (and food, for special diets). It never relies on kennels or catteries, and always finds homely environments for pets, entrusted in their care.

Leave a Codicil in your Will, to make arrangements for your companion’s future.

A Typical Walk Routine

Each shift as a volunteer usually starts the same way, with a happy greeting and a few safety checks. Here’s what a typical 30‑45 minute session might look like:

• Arrive and Greet: Start by greeting the shelter staff and your assigned dog. Some dogs are excited right away, others may be shy. Take a minute to chat or crouch down and let the dog get used to you before heading out.
• Leash and Collar Check: Always check that leads, harnesses, and collars fit securely but aren’t too tight. Make sure all clips and buckles are fastened so the dog stays safe throughout the walk.
• Route Planning: Ask staff or consult a walk schedule to find out which routes are best. Some dogs do better in quiet areas, while others need new smells and a bit of a challenge.
• The Walk: Enjoy the outdoors together. Watch the dog’s behaviour, keep a steady pace, and let them sniff and explore within reason. Carry biodegradable poop bags, treats, and always keep the dog’s lead in hand. If allowed, offer brief play at a secure space.
• Wrap Up and Hand-Over: After returning, give the dog some water (not straight after running, to reduce risk of bloat) and a bit of praise. Return the dog to the staff, share any notes about their mood or behaviour, and make sure leads and harnesses are clean and tidy for the next shift.

Don’t let dogs run for an hour after eating or long car drives, to reduce risk of bloat.

Key Responsibilities

Walking rescue dogs comes with key duties that protect both dogs and people. These tasks may seem simple, but together they create a safe, caring routine.

Some main responsibilities include:

• Watching behaviour: Notice signs of stress, excitement, or anything unusual. Settled walks build confidence and help with training.
• Basic dog first aid: Know how to spot cuts, ticks, or overheating. Training is often given, and you will always have staff to ask if you are unsure.
• Cleaning up waste: Always carry waste bags, and be ready to handle little “accidents” with a smile and good humour. A clean walk is a responsible one.
• Reporting issues: If something goes wrong or the dog seems off, let staff know as soon as possible. Good communication helps keep all animals safe and healthy.
• Respecting other walkers and animals: Be polite, follow the shelter’s rules, and avoid crowded or unsafe paths.

Time Commitment and Flexibility

One of the best things about being a volunteer dog walker is how flexible it can be. Shelters know people are busy. They offer a range of shifts and patterns so you can help out when it suits you.

• Shifts: Many shelters offer morning, afternoon, or early evening shifts. You can pick times that match your work or study schedule.
• Weekend slots: If weekdays are packed, weekends are usually just as helpful. Dogs need walks every day, and there is nearly always space for an extra helper on weekends.
• Regular or one-off: Some people walk weekly, others fill in as needed. You might commit to a certain dog, or cover holidays for other walkers.
• Time-banking: If you belong to a community timebank, you can walk dogs, and then earn ‘hours’ that you can use for something else from other members (like getting a sticky door hinge fixed or someone doing your grocery shopping).

Finding Volunteer Opportunities

Abbie Rose Designs

Finding the right place gives you support, a sense of community, and plenty of wagging tails to greet you. It is worth knowing which organisations run trusted, safe programmes, and where dog lovers are always needed.

Local Shelters and Care Agencies

Most people start their search at local animal shelters, as these organisations always welcome kind people to help walk their dogs. A few names stand out across the country.

• The Cinnamon Trust: This national charity supports older people and those terminally ill, struggling to care for their pets. With the support of over 20,000 volunteers across the UK, it connects people directly with residents who need extra support; whether that’s dog-walking, cat brushing, birdcage cleaning, taking pets to the vet, or short-term fostering during hospital stays. You can sign up on their website, fill out a form, and speak to their team about what suits you best.
• Dogs Trust & Blue Cross are national charities that welcome volunteers to walk dogs. And others with experience/space to groom/foster horses.
• Keep Your Pet (Yorkshire) is a regional charity that provides assistant for older and vulnerable pet guardians, in times of ill-health or other emergencies. Support includes dog walking, visiting to feed animals, vet trips and short-term foster care.
• Wag and Company (North East) offers ‘cuddle monster’ dogs for visiting people who would like a visit from a furry friend. There is veterinary advice for ‘friendship dogs’.

TimeBanks are set up in communities. Each member earns an ‘hour of time’ by offering services to someone else. So if you someone’s shopping or mend a creaky gate, you could use the ‘hour of time’ to have someone walk your dog (or for an elderly relative or neighbour).

Other Inspirational Dog Walking Charities

• Care Dogs (London) is a befriending charity with a difference. The befriender not only visits you with their friendly dog, but also you can go on walks with both at the same time, getting out in the fresh air for gentle exercise with your new canine friend!
• Rosie’s Trust is an inspiring charity in Northern Ireland, which kind of offers the same services as Cinnamon Trust, but also for people with mobility issues and having cancer treatment. Again it offers daily walks and pet care, vet trips and short/long-term fostering and care, if needed.
• Sara Lanzarote Volunteers: Though better known on the continent, this group connects people with rehoming projects and walking schemes, sharing both short and long-term opportunities. They inspire similar groups in the UK, so many towns now have their own version.
• Poops (pets of older persons) is an Aussie charity offers help for people over 60 or in palliative care.

..Or Find an Affordable Dog Walker

If you don’t qualify for a volunteer dog walker, there are many affordable dog walkers around.

Ensure they are trained with liability insurance, and ideally have taken a first aid course and dog-walking course.

Humane Dog Training Basics

Dogs in shelters or community programmes often have mixed backgrounds. Many groups, including the Cinnamon Trust, recommend sticking to gentle, humane training that helps both new and nervous walkers keep control without fuss.

Three key tips help most:

• Leash etiquette: Always keep the lead short but loose. A gentle, steady hand stops both pulling and zig-zagging. Step off briskly, avoid big jerks or stops, and stand still if the dog strains or jumps. This quiet pause teaches patience.
• Calm commands: Stick to clear, simple words. “Sit,” “Wait,” and “Leave it” go further if you stay calm and repeat them in a steady voice. Dogs respond to your tone as much as your words, so relax your shoulders and use a warm but firm voice.
• Rewarding good behaviour: Catch the dog doing something right. Give a treat or quiet praise for calm walking, sitting when asked, or ignoring distractions. Rewards work best if they come within a second or two of the good action.

Dog First Aid and Safety Kit

Little things can go wrong even on short walks, so train up in dog first aid. Being ready for cuts, bug bites, or spilled water helps you keep calm and stay on track. Volunteer groups ask that walkers bring a few basics each time they head out.

Here’s a handy list of essentials:

• Muzzle (if needed or supplied by the charity)
• Collapsible water bowl and a bottle of fresh water
• Waste bags for quick and tidy clean-ups
• Basic first aid kit, which can include:
  • Adhesive bandage (or vet wrap)
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Tweezers (for thorns, ticks, or splinters)
  • Cotton pads or gauze
  • A small dog-friendly towel
• Quick first aid guide for common issues, like minor scrapes or heat stress

For simple issues, remember:

• For small cuts, clean gently with an antiseptic wipe and cover with a bandage.
• If the dog seems too warm (panting, drooling, slowing down), move into shade, offer water, and wet their paws and belly with the towel.
• Call the shelter or owner if you’re worried or unsure, especially if bleeding won’t stop or the dog is limping badly.

Read our post on keeping dogs safe by the seaside (includes information to prevent bloat, heatstroke, and why to keep dogs away from hazards like seaweed and palm oil).

Researching Routes and Local Rules

Check these key bits before you head out:

• Park and field rules: Some parks have dog-free zones, timed access, or must-use-lead rules. Always look for signposts at entrances and ask staff about restrictions.
• Beach walks: Many UK beaches ban dogs on the sand during spring and summer. Look up tide times too, as safe walking space can disappear fast.
• Dog bans: Seasonal bans may pop up on footpaths (especially near nesting birds or farmland). Keep a list of options for each season. Always follow the Countryside Code, to keep all creatures safe.
• Shaded routes and water access: Warm, sunny days can catch both you and the dog off guard. Map out shaded paths or plan a short loop with fresh water on hand.
• Busy times: Some places fill up with joggers, cyclists, or prams at peak times. A quick check the day before on social media or the local council page can save you and the dog a headache.

Before your first walk, try a quick trial run yourself or with a friend. Note where you’ll find bins, water taps, benches, and shelter if the weather turns rough. 

Handling Various Breeds and Temperaments

No two dogs are the same, and as a volunteer, understanding this is key. Whether you’re paired with a bouncy Labrador, a shy terrier, or a dog with special needs, flexibility and patience make all the difference.

• Larger Dogs: Large breeds often love to pull or charge ahead. Hold the lead firmly, keeping your arm relaxed but steady. Stand tall, use your body weight for balance, and guide them with calm, confident steps. Let the dog settle into your pace, rewarding loose-lead walking with cheerful words or a treat. If you struggle, ask for a double lead or a harness designed to ease strong pulling.
• Nervous Puppies: Young or anxious dogs read your mood. Move slowly, speak softly, and avoid sudden movements. Let them sniff and decide when they’re ready for the next step. Give lots of praise for calm behaviour, even if that just means sitting quietly for a minute or two at first.
• Dogs with Special Needs: Some shelter dogs have old injuries, vision problems, or other health quirks. Learn the dog’s specific needs from staff before you start the walk. Stick to gentle, flat routes and avoid crowded spots or loud noises if the dog is easily startled. Take plenty of breaks and never rush.

General Tips:

• • Stay calm even if things don’t go as planned. Dogs trust you more when you act like a steady anchor.
  • Use simple hand signals and words the dog already knows, if possible.
  • Pay attention to the dog’s body language—watch for signs like tucked tails, yawns, or stiff legs. These often mean stress or uncertainty.
  • Always keep the dog on lead in public spaces unless the shelter says otherwise.

Communication and Record Keeping

Good record keeping isn’t just a tick-box task; it builds trust between you, the shelter, and the dogs. Staff rely on your notes to spot patterns, track progress, and handle any problems quickly.

A basic log works well. Here’s what most shelters want you to note:

• Walk time and route: Jot down when and where you walked.
• Dog’s behaviour: Mention if the dog was calm, excitable, or a bit nervous. Note any barking, pulling, or signs of fear.
• Training actions: Record successes (e.g., responded to “sit”) and struggles (e.g., ignored recall).
• Incidents: Write down accidents, altercations with other dogs, lead breakages, or anything unusual.
• Health issues: Spot small limps, sneezing, or if the dog seemed tired early.

A simple log might look like this:

• Max (walked at 10.15 on 1 May) around park. Excited and pulled at first, but no incidents.
• Bella (walked at 11.00 on 1 May) along a quiet street. A bit anxious, but calmed mid-walk (was startled by loud lorry).

Legal and Insurance Considerations

• Public Liability Insurance: Most reputable shelters and community groups cover volunteers with public liability insurance. This means if the dog causes damage or injury to another person or property while in your care, you’re not left paying the bill. Always confirm what’s covered before your first walk. If you freelance through a local group or online app, ask if you need your own policy.
• Volunteer Waivers: Shelters usually ask you to sign a volunteer waiver. This lays out what’s expected from you and what happens if there is an incident. Read the waiver carefully, and ask staff for clarity if anything is unclear.
• Council Dog Walking Rules: Councils often have specific rules for walking dogs in public places. Common requirements include:
  • Always pick up after the dog.
  • Keep dogs on lead in parks, near roads, and during certain hours or in busy spaces.
  • Limit the number of dogs walked at once (the fewer the better).
  • Avoid banned areas (playgrounds, beaches during summer, seasonal restrictions).
  • Dogs must wear collars with a visible identity tag, listing the owner or shelter’s contact.

Before your first shift, ask the shelter or group for a quick run-down on local rules. Many provide a volunteer handbook or printed guide with the details.