What is a Dog Ambassador?

Our team of Dog Ambassadors are people enthusiastic about the wildlife of Whisby Nature Park, who enjoy walking their dogs there and want visitors to enjoy their time on the reserve responsibly. Whilst exercising their dog they engage with members of the public about the wildlife on-site, and responsible practices for dog walking.  Any site issues to be reported to the Warden team so everyone can enjoy their visit.

What’s involved?

Whisby Nature Park is a beautiful landscape near Lincoln, full of wildlife, walks and trails. It is visited by over 170,000 people each year. Due to the sensitive nature of the reserve, dogs are permitted on a short lead around most of the reserve, and off a lead around Thorpe Lake only.  It is important that the needs of the site, its benefit for both wildlife and people, are respected and key messages are conveyed.

Whilst regularly walking your dog at Whisby you would:

• Be familiar with the principles underpinning the Dog Ambassador role in encouraging considerate behaviour by other dog owners at the site
• Represent the Trust in an appropriate manner when on-site and inspire others to support us by referring any visitors to further information
• Report any damage, incidents and activities to the wardens or appropriate authority via regular reporting arrangements
• Always act in accordance with the risk assessment for the task provided
• Adhere to the Volunteer Charter, policies, procedures and guidelines
• Undertake in-house training appropriate to the role

Who would this role suit?

Essential skills/experience:

• An understanding of the balance between public and wildlife needs on-site
• Familiarity with Whisby Nature Park
• Sensible regard for health and safety
• Understanding and support of the Wildlife Trust's principles of reserve management
• Ability and availability to visit the site throughout the year
• Ability to communicate effectively with the public
• The ability to work within guidelines set by the Warden team

Desirable skills/experience:

• A genuine interest in conservation and wildlife
• An affinity with and commitment to the aims of the Wildlife Trust

What’s in it for you?

• You’ll be fully trained
• You’ll get to learn about the site’s wildlife and the work we do to promote and protect it
• Free car parking available on-site
• Branded clothing to wear whilst on-site

Commitment: Regular (weekly or more)

Duration: Ongoing

Would suit applicants who live within a 15 minute commute of Whisby Nature Park and/or are regular dog walkers at the reserve.

If you are interested, please complete the attached application form. You may be invited to an informal interview.