FAQ's

Information for schools

Want to bring the Story Dogs program to your school?

Visit our School Information page to learn more!

The following forms are within our School Information Pack:


  • Parent Consent Form (a two page form)
  • Target Student Information Sheet
  • Program Agreement
  • Expression of Interest

FAQ's

  • Can I volunteer if I don’t have a dog?

    Volunteers Dog Teams and Coordinators must have their own dog as part of program requirements. Speak with your school for ways to help fundraise and support Story Dogs. 

  • Is there a minimum or maximum age to volunteer?

    Volunteers must be at least 18 years old. There is no upper age limit, however you must be independently mobile and physically able to handle the dog.

  • What type of dog leads are best for the Story Dogs program?

    Dogs can only wear either a flat collar with a 1-2m webbing lead, a Martingale collar, or a well-fitting harness. No training collars, halties, muzzles, aversive collars or retractable leads are permitted.

  • I will be away for weeks at times during the school calendar, can I still Volunteer?

    Yes, as long as the time away is not greater than 10 weeks and you notify the school and Story Dogs Coordinator in advance. If you have an upcoming trip, we recommend you delay your application for when you get back as to minimise disruption for the students.

  • I have more than one dog, can I Volunteer with two or more?

    Yes. Each dog will undergo an individual assessment to qualify for the program. Only one dog at a time can be taken for a Reading Session.

  • Can I Volunteer at my children’s / grandchildren’s school?

    Yes, if the school has given consent for the program.

  • As a Volunteer, will I have to organise the school?

    If you have a preferred school, please let us know on the application form. The local Coordinator can then contact that school. Or your Story Dogs Coordinator can appoint a school for you to attend.

  • Do I have to find a sponsor before I start?

    No, sponsorship is not a volunteer requirement and Story Dogs will provide support in appointing a sponsor once you have joined the program.

  • Do I have to get a Vet Check before I can complete the application form?

    No, but be aware if you and your dog are successful with the Dog Team Assessment you will need a current Vet Check.

  • My Working With Children Check has expired can I still apply?

    Yes, but be aware you will not be able to start in a school until this comes through. In some States this may take many weeks, so we recommend that you get the process started ASAP.

  • Is there an upper age limit for the dog?

    No, as long as your vet signs off that your dog is healthy and fit enough to enjoy the sessions. The dog’s welfare is very important to us. If they are not happy with children patting them, car rides, walking around the school, lying down etc then please consider not volunteering.

  • My dog is not vaccinated can I still participate?

    To be safe with children, dogs must either be vaccinated or have a positive Titre Test result.

  • What type of dog leads are best for the Story Dogs program?

    Dogs must wear either a flat collar with a 1-2m webbing lead, a Martingale collar, or a well-fitting harness. No training collars, halties, muzzles, aversive collars or retractable leads are permitted. 

  • What is the minimum volunteer period?

    A full school year. The children we are helping, often require all four terms to get the most out of the program. Reading Sessions are held weekly throughout the year, excluding school holidays and public holidays. 

We provide children with a safe learning environment