Volunteer Senior Dog Handler

Are you experienced in dog handling and confident working with all types of dogs, including strong leash pullers or reactive dogs? Do you hold high standards and expect the same from others? We want to hear from you!

We are currently looking for a Volunteer Senior Dog Handler to join our team at Chester’s Corner Rescue Foundation.

About Us:

Chester’s Corner Rescue Foundation is a dedicated nonprofit organization specializing in animal rescue and rehabilitation. Our mission is to provide abandoned animals with medical care, emotional support, and a path toward finding loving, permanent homes. Every effort we make is driven by compassion and a commitment to the welfare of animals in need.

How You Will Contribute:

Purpose:

Serve as the primary evaluator and quality control for dog handling, ensuring all volunteers are experienced, capable, and safe when working with rescue dogs.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct 1:1 assessments for new dog handling volunteers
• Observe and evaluate handler performance and experience during initial sessions
• Provide clear pass or fail recommendations to the Dog Program Lead
• Ensure all handlers demonstrate proper control, awareness, and safety at all times
• Monitor ongoing handler performance and flag concerns to the Dog Program Lead
• Co-lead Zoom training sessions for dog handling alongside the Dog Program Lead (focused on expectations and standards)
• Step in to walk and handle dogs as needed to support the program
• Actively participate in the program WhatsApp group to provide updates, share observations, and support coordination with the Dog Program Lead

Immediate Ownership:

Owns the evaluation and quality control of all dog handling volunteers, ensuring only experienced and capable individuals are approved.

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 to 4 years hands-on experience in dog handling (required)
• Proven experience working with dog behavior, including handling strong leash pullers and reactive dogs (required)
• Ability to assess handler capability and dog behavior in real time
• Strong judgment and confidence in making pass or fail decisions
• Reliability and consistency

Commitment Details:

Approximately 2 to 4 hours per week

On-site involvement required for assessments and handling sessions

How to Apply:

Please send an email to volunteer@chesterscorner.org with your resume and a short introduction of yourself and why you are interested in volunteering with Chester’s Corner Rescue Foundation. Please be sure to put the title “Volunteer Senior Dog Handler” in the subject line of your email.

Additional Notes:

This is a volunteer role; no compensation will be provided.