The Volunteer Job Description:
ANIMAL CARE - Cats and Small Animals

If you're 16 years of age or older, and you love animals, then this might be the "purrfect" volunteer position for you. It is certainly one of the positions most in need of volunteers.

The daily care of the animals is definitely the heart and soul of the shelter and we greatly value the volunteers who are dedicated enough to become part of this team.

Animal Care is not always easy because it involves cleaning and disinfecting cages/kennels, litter boxes and dishes, and then setting up the clean cages/kennels with fresh food, water, litter and blankets. Of course, we also encourage volunteers to stop and give a quick cuddle or social time as we clean. Because the animals are hungry when they first wake up, this position must be done mornings. Animal care volunteers begin at 8:30 am or 9:00 am. Ideally we like it when an animal care volunteer is able to commit to one morning per week because then it helps us to schedule.

We have a very small staff here at the shelter, and so many animals to take care of, so any volunteers who help in this capacity are hugely appreciated. Besides a love of animals and the desire to improve their lives, it's important that you be able to follow instructions well and pay attention to detail. We rely on our animal care volunteers, so it's necessary that you are dependable and are able to work well independently. Having previous experience with animals is an asset when it comes to handling, grooming and simply knowing what to expect from the animals. This position is fast paced and physically demanding.
Carole Gutteridge is our animal care training coordinator, and she will provide a 1 to 2 hour training session for all volunteers in this area.

This position requires strong commitment, and yet it is extremely rewarding because not only are you providing the basic essentials, but you are also helping to brighten the day for the animals in the shelter.

For those children ages 12 to 15 who would like to come in and help, we have a new progam starting up this fall. We are encouraging all young teens to come and help out at the shelter. We ask that a parent be present with the child at all times. So, if your in this younger age group, talk to your parents and fill out a volunteer application.