Purpose of the role

The purpose of this volunteer role is to enrich the lives of residents and clients by providing safe, calming and meaningful interactions with a friendly, well-behaved animal companion. As a Paw-sitive Companion, you and your pet will help create moments of comfort, connection and companionship.

Key responsibilities

• Share calm, friendly interactions between your pet and residents, creating moments of comfort, joy, and emotional connection.
• Support residents to engage safely with your pet, ensuring interactions match their preferences and abilities.
• Create a warm, relaxed atmosphere during visits, helping residents feel at ease, included, and uplifted.
• Encourage gentle conversation and reminiscence, using your pet as a bridge to spark stories, smiles, and positive memories.
• Observe residents’ responses and adapt the interaction, ensuring each visit feels respectful, safe, and meaningful.

Personal skills and qualities

• Reliability, consistency and commitment
• Ability to build genuine connections with older people
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills

Time commitment

• Whether you can offer one hour a week or one hour a month, your time helps create moments that matter for our residents
• Flexible time and commitment

Benefits

• Be a valuable part of our volunteer team and receive ongoing support throughout your volunteering
• Enjoy exclusive Whiddon perks, including discounts and special offers
• Receive recognition through our Everyday Heroes Program, milestone awards and many other volunteer appreciation initiatives
• Access to confidential support via Employee Assistance Program