Dog Handler

Company Description

Dogs4Rescue was founded by Emma Billington and is now in its 14th year of changing lives - both canine and human. Inspired by international rescues and driven by a mission to rethink what dog rescue in the UK could be, Emma built a place where dogs live kennel-free, outdoors and in harmony as a pack.

Dogs here spend their days exploring, playing, learning and rediscovering trust. We welcome every dog for who they are, and we believe every dog has the potential to change. With two sites and a growing community of supporters, we're a small, passionate team united by love, optimism and a determination to do rescue differently.

Job Description

Dog Handler - Dogs 4 Rescue

Help dogs heal, grow and find their forever homes.

Based across our Irlam and Accrington sites.

At Dogs4Rescue, we do things differently.

As the UK's pioneering kennel-free rescue, we've created a unique environment where dogs live together as a family, building confidence, learning social skills and getting a second chance at life. Every dog has a story, and we're looking for compassionate, dedicated Dog Handlers to help write the next chapter.

What you'll be doing

This is a hands-on role where no two days are the same. You'll be at the heart of dog welfare, providing daily care, enrichment, exercise and behavioural support while helping dogs develop the skills they need for a successful future.

Working alongside experienced colleagues, behaviour specialists and the rehoming team, you'll:

• Support the wellbeing and rehabilitation of dogs from a wide range of backgrounds.
• Safely manage dogs within our unique kennel-free, group-living environment.
• Observe and record behaviour, health and welfare, helping ensure every dog receives the right support.
• Assist with training, enrichment and socialisation activities that help dogs build confidence and prepare for adoption.
• Play an important role in helping dogs find and transition to their forever homes.

Who we're looking for

We're looking for someone who genuinely loves dogs, remains calm under pressure and thrives in an active, fast-paced environment.

You'll be confident handling dogs of all sizes and personalities, have a good understanding of canine behaviour and welfare, and enjoy working as part of a close-knit team. Most importantly, you'll share our belief that every dog deserves the opportunity to thrive.

What's in it for you?

• Pay starting from £12.71 per hour
• Up to 40 hours per week available
• 20 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Auto-enrolment pension scheme
• Work within the UK's pioneering kennel-free rescue environment
• Be part of a passionate, supportive team that genuinely cares
• Every day brings variety, challenge and the opportunity to make a real difference
• The chance to help dogs rediscover trust, confidence and happiness before finding their forever homes

Why join Dogs 4 Rescue?

Because this isn't just another dog handling role.

This is an opportunity to be part of something special. You'll help dogs overcome challenges, build trust and start a new life with the families they've been waiting for. Every day is different, every dog is unique, and every success story is worth celebrating.

If you love dogs, believe in doing things differently and want a role where your work genuinely matters, we'd love to hear from you!

Qualifications

• At least 2 years’ experience working with dogs in rescue, kennel, daycare, training or similar environments.
• Confident handling dogs of all sizes, breeds and behavioural backgrounds.
• Understanding of canine behaviour, training principles and welfare needs.
• Calm, resilient and proactive approach in a busy, high‑demand environment.
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to follow structured plans, protocols and safety procedures.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Experience working in a kennel‑free or socialisation‑based rescue setting.
• Experience supporting volunteers or supervising work‑experience students.
• Qualification in animal management, canine behaviour, or related field.
• Canine first aid (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience in behavioural rehabilitation or complex dog handling.
• Experience supporting media/marketing content creation involving animals.