Who can volunteer? Everyone! Volunteers under the age of 14 will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. All volunteers will need to sign a waiver and that must be signed by a parent if the volunteer is under the age of 18.
When can I volunteer? You are welcome any time the shelter is open! We are open M-F from 10-5:30 but closed for lunch from 1:15-2:30. Saturdays we are open from 1o-2 PM. We do need to have all the dogs back in their kennels by 5 PM so please plan accordingly.
What do I need to bring? Please dress according to weather but you MUST wear close-toed shoes (no flip flops, sandals, etc). Bring a water bottle or snack with you if you think you might need one.
Dog volunteers:
Our greatest need with the dogs is for walkers! The shelter dogs benefit so much from getting out and being exercised and getting some one on one time with people. We ask that the dogs go out for AT LEAST 20 minutes each though some of them may need longer (or shorter depending on weather).
Dogs also enjoy some good cuddle time! Take the dog for a 20 minute walk and then come back to the shelter and hang out in the shade giving belly rubs, ear scratches, etc. If you feel ambitious then grab some treats (we can provide them) and teach them to sit, lie down, shake, etc.
We occasionally get a dog or two in the could benefit from a good brushing! We have various doggie brushes to choose from and that will help increase their adoptability by making them look a little cuter.
Cat Volunteers:
Cats can’t go on walks (ours can’t at least) but they still need you! Some of our cats remain at the shelter for a couple months before being adopted and they get very sad. We need people to hang out in the cat room and love on the kitties. Hold them, pet them, brush them, etc. All of those things elevate their moods and keep them from becoming depressed. We can’t stress enough how badly these cats need volunteers to love on them, you can help them find homes faster by keeping them happy and social and more appealing to potential adopters.
