BCSPCA

Dog Enrichment Support

This role supports dogs in the behaviour program by providing enrichment and stress-reduction activities that improve their overall wellbeing. Volunteers prepare and deliver enrichment, lead calming interactions, and document how each activity supports the dog's quality of life.

Responsibilities

Provide enrichment and enhance animal welfare. Lead stress-reduction activities. Prepare and deliver enrichment for the animals. Document if enrichment works or not.

Requirements & Training

Volunteers must be 19 years of age or older. Applicants must be a trained Level 1 Behaviour Support Volunteer and complete the enrichment training module. Task-specific sign-off by an Animal Behaviour Specialist or designate is required. Experience working with dogs and/or cats is necessary, along with the ability to follow detailed instructions consistently. Volunteers should be comfortable working with animals showing fear, stress, and/or uncertainty, and possess strong observational skills and an understanding of animal body language. Volunteers should also be in philosophical harmony with the BC SPCA’s mission, vision, values, and strategic directions.

Volunteering Conditions

Volunteers may work in both indoor and outdoor settings depending on the tasks. Indoor settings include animal care areas, offices, and medical facilities, while outdoor work may involve walking dogs or maintaining the premises. Outdoor tasks may require working in a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, ice, or heat, and volunteers should dress appropriately and be prepared for seasonal changes.

The role may involve lifting or moving supplies, equipment, or animals, requiring physical strength and stamina. Many activities involve extended periods of standing or walking, particularly when interacting with animals or the public. Working directly with animals may involve low-stress handling and care, which requires patience and attention to detail.

Volunteers must adhere to safety protocols designed to protect both themselves and the animals, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) where necessary. Potential hazards include bites, scratches, and exposure to zoonotic diseases. Training is provided to help minimize these risks.

Time Commitment

Approximately two hours of online training is required before entering the volunteer program. Volunteers are expected to complete a weekly two-hour shift. Animal centres often prefer volunteers who can commit for an extended period to provide stability and continuity for the animals and the centre. A minimum commitment of three months is required, although four to six months is considered ideal.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteers can put their skills and experience with animals to use in an advanced role while learning advanced low-stress animal-handling techniques. The position provides an opportunity to support animals on behaviour modification plans, work directly with dogs, and contribute to the BC SPCA's mission of protecting vulnerable animals.

Questions?

Email volunteers@spca.bc.ca

Mission

Protecting vulnerable animals and mobilizing communities so animals and people thrive together.