Therapy Dog Thursday - Weekend Volunteering with Assistance Dogs.

We get it. If you would love to open your home to an Assistance Dog in training but cannot commit on a full-time basis, volunteering can feel out of reach.

That is exactly why Assistance Dogs Australia offers its Weekend Care Program, giving volunteers the chance to support a dog in training while fitting the responsiblity around their lifestyle. 

The program allows volunteers to welcome a dog into their home from Friday afternoon to Monday morning, giving the dog valuable time in a loving home environment while they continue their Advanced Training Program during the week.
For volunteers, it is a wonderful way to experience the joy of having an Assistance Dog in training at home, while playing an important role in their development, socialisation and wellbeing.

Samantha, one of Assistance Dogs Australia’s Weekend Care Volunteers, knows this feeling well. She loves the opportunity to spend her weekends with a beautiful assistance dog, while helping support the incredible work these dogs go on to do for Australians living with disability.
Hear from her below; 

With a household shaped by shift work, school schedules, and regular travel, Samantha’s family knew full-time pet ownership wasn’t practical. But weekend care fits seamlessly into their lifestyle. “You can gain the goodness of having a dog without that lifetime commitment,” she explains. 

The impact has been immediate – especially for her teenage kids. 
“They’ve really enjoyed it… having a dog that wants to sit at your feet while you play games or study is perfect.” 
Beyond companionship, the dogs have brought subtle but meaningful changes to daily life. Morning walks are now part of the routine, and weekends feel more active and connected. 
“They just sizzle down the temperature of the week and start the weekend in a really nice way,” Samantha says. 
Even reluctant family members are won over. Despite not being a natural dog lover, Samantha’s husband has become a quiet favourite among their four-legged visitors. “The dogs must know,” she laughs. “They gravitate to him… and they’re wearing him down.” 

Importantly, the experience is designed to be easy. The dogs are well-trained, house-ready, and supported by the organisation. All food and toys are supplied. Volunteers simply provide a safe, caring environment – and plenty of cuddles. 

“It’s actually just a little bit of goodness in your life,” Samantha reflects. 
For anyone on the fence, her advice is simple: “Just try it, it’s definitely worth it.” 

With flexibility, minimal commitment, and maximum reward, weekend volunteering is proving that you don’t need to own a dog to experience the very best parts of having one.  

To learn more about Assistance Dogs Australia, their volunteer options and other ways you can support the amazing work they dog, visit their website here!