Q&A for How to Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Try talking to them and reaching a compromise. They will listen to what you have to say.

It depends on the shelter's terms, but some may allow it.

No. Volunteer work is not like a job. You do it when you want to, as long as it is a time during which they need or allow volunteers. Some places may require you to plan ahead and let them know when you will be coming. In that case, make sure you choose a day and time when you will be available and stick to the plan. Some places may require you to come a minimum of one day a week, but you still usually get to choose the day.

It depends on the shelter. Some might have minimum volunteer hour requirements while others may not. You should check with the shelters near you to find out whether they have time expectations for their volunteers.

Each shelter will have different requirements for volunteers. If you are too young to work at the shelter there are still ways you can help. You might raise money to donate to the shelter, or collect items the shelter needs and donate those. Your local shelter may even have other ideas for you.

Depending on the hours offered by the volunteer program, then yes!

It depends on the shelter and the capability of the 15-year-old, but it's worth a try.

Yes, because they need as much help as they can get. Even if you are only there once a week, you'll still be helping out.

A lot of animal shelters need blankets. You do not need to give them new ones. They will take clean used ones. You also can donate cash.

No, in most places you need to be at least 16 and have some type of experience. You could always ask your parents to volunteer with you.

If you're writing an essay based on your experiences volunteering, you can start by talking about where you chose to volunteer and why. You can then talk about how the experience changed you, what you learned, and whether or not you intend to continue volunteering in the future. If you need more general help writing an essay, wikihow's article on writing an essay might be a good place to start.

Yes, having a misdemeanor is okay when volunteering at an animal shelter.

It is going to depend on your local shelter. You can just call and ask what their policy is.

Sure, but it is really up to your parents. I know people who are 3 years-old and work at shelters.

It depends on the shelter. They may want you to prove that you're responsible before letting you work directly with animals, but if you show your dedication by taking on whatever tasks they ask of you, you shouldn't have any problems.

No; in most places you need to be at least 16.

No, you do not get paid. If you want to get paid you will have to be hired to work there. And yes, it does get really stressful at times.

Yes, as long as that shelter allows people your age to be volunteers.

You could volunteer there for as long as you would like. However, you should check with the shelter to see if they have any specific guidelines/ minimum requirements for how many hours they require from a volunteer.

Some people are ignorant and only think of themselves regarding their animals. Some think they'll get a cute puppy and it'll be easy, but don't realize that they have to commit to an animal like a relationship. They treat them like a new toy rather than a new addition to their lives.

For most shelters, you have to be at least thirteen to volunteer but there is not an age limit at the other end usually. Check-in with your local shelters and ask about volunteering there.

Yes! Showing that you've spent some of your time helping the community and animals would look great on a resume and a volunteer hours project. If your boss knows you care about animals and you've physically been around them then that will give you some bonus points when it's time to choose someone for the job.

Of course! Helping animals and the community is a great way to spend your time and looks great on resumes! It's also very important to the shelter you're volunteering at because they can always use a little more help.

Yes, volunteering at an animal shelter is considered a community service. If you're looking into getting volunteer hours it's the perfect place! While you're there maybe think about donating some items to help them be more successful.

Some great things to donate to your local shelter are dog/cat food, bedding, dog/cat toys, dog/cat treats, dog/cat shampoo, grooming supplies, bowls, leashes, collars, kitty litter, supplies for new puppies and money so they can choose some of their own supplies, pay bills and upgrade the shelter.

Of course. Not all animal shelter positions require you to lift extremely heavy items. You might be able to do cleaning, admin work and spending time with the animals. Point out your strengths, not your weaknesses, when interviewing.

Thirteen is too young to volunteer unsupervised. However, many shelters have programs for children in middle school and below to do some work with an adult or to do work that doesn't involve interacting with animals. Do research at your local shelter to see what their volunteer policy is.

Look up your local animal shelter's website. Many shelters have training classes you can take to become a volunteer, and they should be easy to find.

Yes, if you volunteer only in the summer that is fine. It is better than not helping at all. You can walk, feed, and exercise the dogs to help on random days.

You don't have to show up every day. It is okay to take breaks as long as it works for their volunteer roster. It also depends on the area you live in, and the animal shelter's hours, and when they are open for volunteers. Talk to them about what works best for you.