Want to become a volunteer for Therapy Dogs Nationwide? Apply with your Dog

Volunteer

Get involved

Volunteers

Apply with your Dog

Volunteer

Do you want to make people smile? Would you like to help your community? Volunteering with Therapy Dogs Nationwide (TDN) is fun, rewarding, and makes a big difference. Whether you have a dog, no dog, or are still at school – there’s a way for you to get involved.

Whether you’re a dog lover, a community spirit, or just someone who wants to help – we’d love to have you.

Volunteer with Your Dog

If your dog is friendly, calm, and loves people – they could be a perfect Therapy Dog!

Big or small, young or old, one eye, three legs – we welcome them all. Dogs must be over 9 months old and have lived with you for at least 6 months. There’s no special training needed, but we do assess all dogs to make sure they’re happy around people and walk nicely on a lead. We don’t allow jumping up or pawing.

You can volunteer in your local area – some people give an hour a month, others an hour a week. You might visit: Hospitals, Schools, Care homes, Hospices, Prisons, Courts, Universities or Emergency services.
Most visits are solo, but we also do fun group days at corporate events. Volunteers and dogs wear a uniform so everyone knows who we are. Once you’re accepted, there’s a small yearly fee (£20) to cover admin and insurance.

Your visits make a real difference: they reduce stress, ease loneliness, and create moments of joy. You’ll feel great too – helping others and building stronger communities.

Could your dog be the next hero with a tail?

Volunteer With Your Dog

Become a Supporting Volunteer (No Dog Needed)

No dog? No problem! Supporting Volunteers are a vital part of our team.

You might:

  • Help at events and dog shows
  • Spread the word in your community
  • Fundraise, give talks, or organise raffles
  • Help run our social media, do admin, or help behind the scenes

There’s no minimum time required – you can help as much or as little as you like. You don’t need special training – just bring your energy and ideas.

Some Supporting Volunteers are waiting for the right dog, or used to visit with a dog that’s now retired. Others simply want to be part of something good. However you join, you’ll be making a difference. It’s just £15 a year to join – this helps cover admin and keeps our paws on the ground!

Join as a TDN Cadet (Aged 7–17)

Our Cadet scheme is for young people aged 7 to 17. You must be accompanied by a registered volunteer, but you can get involved in all sorts of ways:

  • Help at events
  • Give school talks
  • Attend Crufts and major dog shows
  • Support visits (depending on the location)
  • Speak to local councils or government

Cadets work towards Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards based on the activities they do. It’s a great way to build confidence, learn new skills, and give back to the community.

Some cadets go on to become full volunteers – others just love being part of the TDN family. Cadet membership is only £5 a year – a small fee for big adventures!

Join as a Cadet