Volunteer
Get involved
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?
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!