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Canine Home Assistant

Assistance dogs trained to provide practical support within the home for adults with physical disabilities.

An illustration of a dog pulling open a cabinet with a pull rope

What a Canine Home Assistant does

Canine Home Assistants are expertly trained to carry out practical daily tasks that may be difficult, tiring or painful to manage alone. This can include retrieving dropped items, assisting with dressing, fetching help in an emergency and supporting household routines, tailored to individual needs.

Support within the home

Canine Home Assistants are trained specifically to support their partner with tasks inside the home. They don’t have public access rights or wear an identifying jacket, their role focuses on practical support within the home.

Building confidence and routine

Alongside practical help, working in partnership with a dog can support routine, motivation and wellbeing. Responsibility for feeding, grooming and exercise can build confidence and independence. The companionship of a dog and regular time outdoors can also help reduce feelings of isolation.

Is this the right partnership for me?

This role is suitable for those who don’t require a dog to accompany them in public environments. It may be right for you if: 

  • You are 18 or over and live permanently in the UK. 
  • You are able to cover the ongoing costs associated with having an assistance dog, including food, parasite control, and insurance (a financial assistance scheme is available). 
  • You have no more than one pet dog already living in your home.  
  • You are able to exercise your dog every day (either independently or with support) for at least 45 minutes, and provide off lead walks at least four times a week. 

You’ll need to attend assessment and training at our  National Training Centre in Leicestershire and commit to working with our team throughout the dog’s life. 

 

How to apply in future

Applications for Canine Home Assistants are currently closed while we support people already assessed and on our waiting list. Register your interest for future updates by signing up to our monthly e-newsletter ‘Fetch’.

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