Volunteer
Through the Sanctuary Walking Club
Give Al-Wafi’s retired service dogs time outdoors, gentle exercise and companionship through the Sanctuary Walking Club. Each walk helps them settle into life beyond service, with guidance from our team.
Join the Sanctuary Walking Club
Volunteer requirements
The club’s age, written-consent and regular-slot requirements are the same at GSVH and Al-Wafi. No experience is needed; staff supervise handling and match walkers with suitable dogs. Al-Wafi walks also require comfort handling a strong dog, a handling orientation, valid ID and a volunteer safety agreement.
Ages 16–17 are welcome with a parent or guardian’s written consent; the parent or guardian does not need to attend.
Comfortable walking 30–60 minutes and safely holding a strong, medium-to-large dog on a lead.
Each dog has individual needs. Patience, a calm approach and following the handler’s guidance are essential.
Commit to a regular slot — even one morning or afternoon a week — so the dogs can count on familiar faces. There is no fixed three-month minimum.
Complete a handling orientation with our rehabilitation team before your first walk.
Wear closed, sturdy shoes and suitable clothing. Follow hygiene and animal-handling rules, use only approved routes and equipment, give no treats without permission, and report any concern immediately.
All club volunteers must sign a liability waiver and follow the hospital’s safety instructions. For Al-Wafi walks, also provide a national ID or residency card and complete the volunteer safety agreement.
Getting started
Apply and choose the days you can come.
Attend a short orientation at the center.
Shadow a staff handler on your first walks.
Get matched with dogs suited to your experience.