Join Our Team
Dumfries and Galloway Canine Rescue is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic Canine Welfare Assistant to help provide outstanding care for dogs whilst they are waiting for their forever homes.

This is a physically active, hands-on role within a busy rescue environment. Working as part of a team, you will help ensure every dog in our care receives the highest standard of welfare, enrichment, training and rehabilitation. The role requires regular weekend working and is well suited to someone who enjoys practical work, problem-solving and making a difference in animal welfare.

A Realistic Look at the Role
Working in rescue is incredibly rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Alongside spending time with dogs, you’ll be responsible for cleaning kennels, maintaining high standards of hygiene, administering medication, working outdoors in all weather conditions and supporting dogs with a range of behavioural and welfare needs.

What You’ll Be Doing
Providing daily care for dogs, including feeding, cleaning and enrichment
Walking and handling dogs safely and confidently
Monitoring health, behaviour and welfare and reporting concerns promptly
Administering medication in accordance with procedures
Maintaining accurate records
Supporting the rehoming process, including matching dogs and facilitating adopter meet-and-greets
Helping maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and biosecurity across the site
Working collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the best outcomes for our dogs
In addition to your core responsibilities – upon successful completion of probation – you will have the opportunity to become involved in a dedicated area of rescue operations such as communications, fundraising, veterinary liaison, volunteer co-ordination etc.

What We’re Looking For

Essential
Physically fit and capable of carrying out active, manual work
Strong communication and teamwork skills
Reliable with excellent time-keeping
Full UK Driving Licence
Comfortable working outdoor in all weather conditions
Basic understanding of canine behaviour and body language
Basic computer literacy, including email and digital record keeping
Desirable

Experience working in a rescue, kennels or animal care environment
Relevant animal care qualification
Understanding of R+ training methods
Experience working with dogs of different breeds, sizes and behavioural needs
First Aid Trained (human or dog)
Experience working alongside and supporting volunteers
Hours: 8am – 5pm (with paid lunch break)

Pattern: 10 days worked within a 14 day period, including regular weekend working

How To Apply
Please send a CV and covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would like to join the team to Rebecca Plenderleith via the link below.