About
We’re OSJCT – a charity where people love to live, work, and volunteer.
As one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit care providers, we support older people across 60+ homes in Buckinghamshire, ...
Pets as Therapy (PAT) Dog Handler
Contact person
Scan me or visit www.volunteerbucks.org.uk/o/Orders-St-John-Care-Trust-OSJCT/opportunities/Pets-as-Therapy-PAT-Dog-Handler/99678 to join
Summary
Have a registered PAT dog? Join us to support older adults by providing therapeutic visits that reduce stress, encourage engagement, and improve wellbeing.Detailed description
Dogs have a way of brightening up a room as soon as they walk in. You’ll know the joy you get from seeing that wagging tail and all the daft things they do. Our residents are just the same; many were dog owners and are dog lovers still and like nothing better than a cuddle from a furry friend. This is where our Pets as Therapy (PAT) Dog Handlers come in.
They ensure their visits are a highlight for our residents and team alike. They take their lead from our Care Team who share with them who would benefit most from some time with their pooch. Our PAT Dog Handlers know that their dog is the star but that their role is vital too; to chat and help our residents get the most from their visit. Many of our residents’ love to tell stories about their beloved pets and our PAT Dog Handlers get just as much from this as the dogs do from a good ear tickle.
Our PAT Dog Handlers recognise that having a dog at home and bringing a dog into a care home setting can be quite different, so they take guidance from the Home Team to ensure we’re looking after the safety and well-being of everyone; pets and people. Some of our homes also have resident pets, including cats and other furry friends, and visiting animals too, so our PAT Dog Handlers are always aware of what else is happening in the home.
Your dog will need to have be registered with a recognised therapy pet organisation and we’ll need to see evidence of this before you start.
You’ll build up relationships with people so ideally, we’d like a regular, longer term commitment of at least one visit per month. Days and times are flexible; talk to us and we’ll see what suits us both.
What we will provide to volunteers
💸 Reimbursement of costsAbout The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT)
As one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit care providers, we support older people across 60+ homes in Buckinghamshire, Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, West Sussex, and Wiltshire. From dementia and nursing care to day and respite services, we’re all about providing trusted, personalised support.
Because we’re a charity, any surplus goes straight back into our care, our people, and our residents’ homes. We’re regulated by both the Care Quality Commission and the Charities Commission, so you can trust we’re here for the right reasons.
Volunteers are a huge part of what makes our homes warm, fun, and welcoming. Whether it’s gardening, chatting, or sharing a skill or hobby – there’s something for everyone, and we’ll help you find a role that fits your time and interests.
Forget what you think care homes are like – we’re all about laughter, community, and making every day special.
Ready to join us? Check out local volunteer opportunities on our website – we’d love to have you on the team.