Kennel Enrichment is the practice of providing dogs under managed care with environmental stimuli.  With approximately 170 dogs housed in our Yorktown Heights kennel we aim to provide a positive, enjoyable environment for them when they are not actively engaged in guide dog training.  Volunteers help us to provide an optimal environment by assisting with the ever-present tasks of feeding, cleaning and grooming. In addition to these basic tasks, which account for approximately two-thirds of every Kennel Volunteer position, there are specialized tasks to which Volunteers are assigned.  These include:

K9 Companion

Volunteers cuddle with a single adult dog in the dog’s own kennel run.  Sessions are about 10- 15 minutes per dog.  This is a useful exercise to help dogs see the kennel runs as a positive environment. Volunteers can do light grooming, massage and controlled play.

Massage Volunteer

After training in canine massage techniques, Volunteers perform 10- 15 minute massages on assigned dogs in our specially designed Massage Room.  This exercise helps dogs to relax and get them to be comfortable with being touched all over.

Dog Walkers

Volunteers take select dogs on a leisurely walk on the campus nature path.  This gives the dog some time to sit, relax and unwind – to be “off duty”.  Some grooming can be done if needed.

Volunteer shifts are scheduled on weekdays and weekends usually from 8am to 12pm and 12pm to 4pm.

 

To participate as a Kennel Enrichment Volunteer applicants should:

• Be 18 or older and able to make a long term commitment
• Be able to sit, stand and bend for extended periods of time
• Be able to lift up to 40lbs
• Be able to volunteer at the Headquarters and Training Center, Yorktown Heights, New York.

All potential Volunteers must complete a Volunteer Application and undergo a screening, training and evaluation process prior to placement.  Additionally, Volunteers are required to adhere to a Code of Conduct indicating that they will uphold the highest standard of professional conduct while volunteering with Guiding Eyes.

If you are interested in learning more about our internship program please click here.

Want to learn how you can further support our enrichment program?  Review our kennel wishlist or check out our list of favorite toys.