Dog jobs in Dumfries

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Dumfries and Galloway Canine Rescue is looking for a dedicated and enthusiastic part-time 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)

We are ideally looking for candidates who are available to start immediately, although all candidates with relevant experience are encouraged to apply.

If you are interested in this position please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability via Indeed. Please note that applications without cover letters will not be considered.

Any questions? Please email info@caninerescue.co.uk

Closing Date: Friday 23rd October 2026

Pay: From £12.71 per hour

Benefits:

• On-site parking

Application question(s):

• Do you have experience of working with dogs in a professional capacity? i.e boarding kennels, veterinary practice, doggy day care
• What is your current notice period?

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence (required)

Work Location: In person