animal shelter volunteering essay

My Experience Volunteering at an Animal Shelter

So, I found a plan B: volunteering at my local animal shelter. I realized that I didn’t need a fancy internship just to get the hands-on experience I was looking for. So, I spent the summer volunteering, and it was probably the best decision I have ever made.

Working at an animal shelter isn’t the most glamorous work. I can tell you from firsthand experience: Do not wear your favorite shirt when training the dogs how to sit and stay because the big slobbering kiss that the Boxer is going to give you is going all over it.  I wouldn’t wear new sneakers when feeding the cats either, especially near that one black tabby who shows her displeasure of particular food by spitting it out at random targets.

Despite all this, it’s an amazing and rewarding experience. While there are many tough chores, like cleaning up after the animals and washing their dirty beds, there are also fun ways to directly interact with the animals. I always love walking around and deciding which dog to take to the training room to teach new tricks. It’s always a difficult decision because the dogs always get so excited to see you, and it can be hard to just pick one.

I remember teaching a mixed breed Collie how to sit, and when I came back the next time, another volunteer had taught her how to do paw. So every time I came with a treat, without even giving the commands, she immediately sat and gave me her paw. The experience was as motivating and exciting as it was to teach my own Labradoodle puppy to do the same tricks. In addition to teaching the dogs tricks, you can also take them on walks and train them how to act appropriately on a walk. This is probably the most difficult task because each dog acts differently on their walk, and it becomes hard to gauge how each dog will react in certain situations.

When I first came to the shelter, I have to admit I was terrified of cats. But when I came with my friend, a cat lover, she convinced me to “socialize” the cats and interact with one of them directly. Slowly, my fear subsided, and now I love playing with the cats. While I still prefer hanging out with the dogs, I make sure to set aside enough time to go to the cat room during a visit, especially because most volunteers only come for the dogs.

Many people don’t realize the importance of donations for a shelter’s survival. Shelters often run low on basic and necessary supplies, like newspapers and towels. When I heard about this, I solicited small donations from my school to allow the shelter to purchase necessities, which made the shelter extremely grateful. People also don’t realize that in order to get involved, they don’t need to work hands-on at the shelter. There are so many other ways to contribute: raising money, soliciting donations, or even helping out at the front desk.

So, if you’re not a big fan of animals but still want to help, there are other ways to do so. Ultimately, plan B was a great decision!

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Essay on Animal Shelter

Students are often asked to write an essay on Animal Shelter in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Animal Shelter

What is an animal shelter.

An animal shelter is a place where stray, lost, or abandoned animals are kept. They provide a temporary home for these animals. The workers at the shelter feed them, take care of their health, and try to find them a new, loving home.

The Importance of Animal Shelters

Animal shelters play a crucial role in our society. They protect animals that have no home and might be in danger. Shelters help control the population of stray animals. They also work to find these animals a caring family where they can live happily.

Adoption from Animal Shelters

Adopting a pet from an animal shelter can be a rewarding experience. It gives a new life to the animal and brings joy to the adopter. Adoption also helps the shelter to make room for more animals in need.

Volunteering at Animal Shelters

People can help animal shelters in many ways. One way is by volunteering. Volunteers help feed the animals, clean their areas, and sometimes even train them. This work is important and helps the shelter care for all the animals.

Donations to Animal Shelters

Animal shelters need money to run. They use the money for food, medical care, and other needs of the animals. Donations from people can help a lot. Even small amounts can make a big difference to the lives of these animals.

250 Words Essay on Animal Shelter

An animal shelter is a place where stray, lost, or abandoned animals are kept. These places provide a temporary home for animals that don’t have one. They get food, water, a safe place to sleep, and lots of love from the people who work there.

Why are Animal Shelters Important?

Animal shelters are very important for many reasons. The main one is that they help protect animals that are in trouble. They rescue animals that are lost or have been left by their owners. Also, they help to control the number of stray animals on the streets. This is good for both animals and people.

What Happens in an Animal Shelter?

In an animal shelter, animals are taken care of by trained staff. They are given food, medical care, and a safe place to stay. The staff also tries to find new homes for these animals. This is called adoption. People who want to have a pet can come to the shelter and adopt an animal.

How Can We Help Animal Shelters?

We can help animal shelters in many ways. We can donate money or items like food and blankets. We can also volunteer our time to help take care of the animals. The most important way is by adopting a pet from a shelter instead of buying one. This way, we give a home to an animal that really needs it.

In conclusion, animal shelters are very important. They help animals in need and also help our communities. We can all do our part to support them and make sure they can continue their good work.

500 Words Essay on Animal Shelter

An animal shelter is a place where stray, lost, abandoned, or surrendered animals, mostly dogs and cats, are housed. They are also called “pound” or “animal rescue center”. People who run these places care for animals until they find a new home. They feed them, give them a safe place to live, and provide medical care if needed.

The Purpose of Animal Shelters

The main goal of an animal shelter is to provide a temporary home for animals who don’t have one. They help protect animals from dangers on the streets like accidents, harsh weather, or bad people. Shelters also help control the population of stray animals. They do this by neutering or spaying the animals, which means they can’t have babies. This is important because there are already too many homeless animals in the world.

One of the best things about animal shelters is that they let people adopt pets. This means taking a pet home to become part of your family. Shelters have many different types of animals, so you can choose the one that fits best with your family. Adopting a pet from a shelter is a great thing to do because it gives a home to an animal that really needs one. It also makes room in the shelter for another animal that needs help.

Shelters do a lot of good work, but they often need help. One way to help is by volunteering. This means giving some of your time to help out. Volunteers might feed the animals, clean their cages, or play with them to keep them happy. Volunteering at a shelter can be a great way to help animals. Plus, it feels good to do something nice for others.

Another way to help animal shelters is by giving donations. This could be money, food, blankets, toys, or other things that the shelter needs. Donations help the shelter keep running and provide for the animals. Even a small donation can make a big difference.

Animal shelters play a very important role in our society. They provide a safe haven for homeless animals, help control the animal population, and offer an opportunity for people to adopt a new family member. By volunteering or making a donation, you can support these shelters and contribute to a great cause. Remember, every animal deserves a safe, loving home, and animal shelters are a big step in making that happen.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on Animal Rights
• Essay on Animal Exploitation
• Essay on Animals Also Have Feelings

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

Happy studying!

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9 stories about volunteers who are making a difference for pets

From Los Angeles to New York to every city in between, shelters all across the country are saving more and more lives every day, thanks in large part to the dedication and hard work of volunteers.

Whether they’re fostering pets, transporting cats and dogs, helping behind the scenes or rolling up their sleeves to clean kennels, volunteers not only better the lives of pets at shelters, but they’re part of a big reason why achieving no-kill in the U.S. is well within reach.

Here are nine stories about Best Friends volunteers who have made a huge impact on the lives of pets — and people, too.

1. Putting pets in the limelight

Kristin Biggs is an editor and videographer who’s tapped into her talents to help pets at Best Friends in Los Angeles . These days, you’re apt to find her at the lifesaving center, where she’s become the right-hand helper of Best Friends photographer Lori Fusaro.

If Kristin isn’t wrangling kittens, puppies, big dogs and everything in between for their close-ups, she’s helping the public relations team and assisting on video shoots.

“It’s very empowering to be part of a purpose that’s larger than yourself,” says Kristin. “To know that your efforts both help to make the lives of shelter animals better and support the Best Friends mission of no-kill by 2025 is extremely gratifying and incredibly close to my heart.”

Read more about Kristin

2. A pilot helps TNR take off in his community

After a group of community cats made itself at home on the property of a transportation company, Malcom, the company’s cargo pilot, knew he had to do something. “This was the first time I had seen so many cats out there, all together,” he says. “I knew they needed help.”

Malcom got started by contacting the Riverside County Department of Animal Services , where he learned about the shelter’s partnership with Best Friends to implement a community cat program (CCP).

Malcom decided to give TNR a try, and when fellow employees raised some concerns, he became an advocate for both the cats and TNR, connecting the employees with Best Friends staff, who helped alleviate their concerns and get the green light to proceed.

Today, Malcom has trapped 15 cats in his own neighborhood and is a full-fledged animal rescuer. “You’ve got to find people where you are,” says Malcolm. “Everyone has different things they can offer: time, money, supplies, space. When you come together you can make a big impact.”

Read more about Malcom

3. Foster volunteer stayed by kitten’s side through heart surgery journey

If you’ve ever fostered a pet with special needs, you know that while it can be an incredibly rewarding experience, it can also take a lot of dedication and determination.

When Shara Lopossa learned that Shinji, her foster kitten from Best Friends in Utah  needed major heart surgery to save his life, she made up her mind to do whatever was needed. The goal was to make sure his surgery was a success so he could live the life he’d barely begun.

Following the surgery, she made his recovery her No. 1 priority, caring for him morning to night. And her determination paid off. Today, we’re happy to report that Shinji is a healthy, happy kitten who was recently been adopted by a family who thinks the world of her. (And they’re big fans of Shara, too.)

Read more about Shara

4. Sanctuary volunteer helps put spring back in parrot’s step

Rick Eddy had a brilliant idea after dealing with knee pain for years. After getting help from muscle specialist Jared Gough, who created a technique called muscle alignment and restoration (MART), he got to thinking it just might help animals, too. The technique involves using light pressure to relieve muscle tension and restore range of motion.

Rick took classes to learn the technique and then he put his theory to work while volunteering at a zoo, where he noticed that MART had the potential to work particularly well for parrots. Then, he signed up to volunteer at the Parrot Garden  at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary , where caregivers set up some sessions with Lollipop, a stunning white cockatoo.

While the big bird slept, Rick worked out the tight spots in Lollipop’s head, neck and legs. Afterward, there was more spring in Lollipop’s step. Seeing how much he was able to help, Rick began visiting the bird weekly, and while they’ve developed a friendship, he still has plenty of time to spend with the other birds in Parrot Garden, too.

Read more about Rick

5. Volunteer turns fostering into art

When it comes to fostering cats and kittens, Namitha Kim is a natural. Since her fostering journey began in August of 2020, she’s cared for seven adult cats, plus five (and counting) kittens.

Like many foster volunteers, Namitha loved everything about it except one thing ― saying goodbye when the cats were ready to be adopted. In search of ways to make the parting moments easier, she contacted fellow foster volunteers on Facebook for advice. That’s how she got the idea of making clay paw prints of the pets she fostered.

Over the next few months, what started out as a quirky art project turned into a treasured collection of memories. Creating the paw prints became Namitha’s way of celebrating both the animals coming through her house and the journey she shared with them.

Read more about Namitha

6. A longtime volunteer who (literally) hits the road for pets

When the team at Best Friends in Utah needs help on a moment’s notice, they know who to call: Judy Steiger. The former hydrologist, who’s been volunteering with Best Friends for a decade, was a huge support during the early part of the pandemic, when challenges were especially difficult.

She’s always willing to transport pets to Salt Lake City from rural shelters in Utah or deliver pet food to families in need. And when she isn’t logging the miles to help pets, you’ll find her caring for neonatal kittens. In fact, she sometimes combines her volunteer roles, performing such feats as pulling over on a country road to bottle-feed hungry kittens.

“She is an incredible human being,” says Rhoney Farrimond, Best Friends volunteer coordinator in Utah. “She is never frustrated or overwhelmed. She just goes with the flow and problem-solves.”

Read more about Judy

7. Tech-savvy volunteer helps pets during the pandemic

When in-person adoptions at Best Friends in New York  stopped last year due to the pandemic, volunteer Randi Schey was uniquely poised to roll up her sleeves and take on new roles. Her savvy skills as an elementary school technology teacher made it possible for her to help Best Friends in a variety of new ways, even if it meant volunteering from home in her pajamas.

As the pandemic continued, Randi seamlessly shifted gears, and it didn’t matter if she was helping with virtual meet-and-greets or handling kitten counseling calls. (How cute does that sound?) She played a big role during the whole of 2020 by helping Best Friends in New York place a record-breaking number of pets in foster homes and get many other animals adopted.

Read more about Randi

8. How volunteering with mom helped a young woman with autism

Pets have a way of reaching us the way that our fellow humans sometimes cannot. This is what Julia Lawson found when she began volunteering at Best Friends in Atlanta  with her daughter, Julia, who is autistic (though highly functioning) and dyslexic. "The more we volunteered, the more at ease she became," says Kimberly. "Now, everyone can see her natural ability to love dogs where they're at and encourage them to be more."

Happiest when she’s helping dogs, Julia spent many hours cleaning kennels and has a particular affinity for shy dogs, while Kimberly’s favorite thing is to pitch in and help wherever there’s a need.

“They’re the perfect mother-daughter team,” says Brantlee Vickers, volunteer coordinator in Atlanta. “Their dedication to the mission of Best Friends is truly inspiring ... It's amazing to see a youth volunteer so willing to help and a mother being so supportive of her child's passion.”

Read more about Julia and Kimberly

9. The only thing better than volunteering ― doing it with friends, of course

Bobbie Oldfield and Marylin Sharp may not be hitting the roads much these days due to the pandemic. But you can bet that someday in the near future they’ll leave their Houston homes and head out toward Best Friends Animal Sanctuary, a place they often visit together.

Sometimes they’re transporting a pet passenger or two to the Sanctuary, or back to Texas on the return trip. That was the case with Knox, a senior cat with diabetes who needed a lift from Best Friends to his new home in San Antonio.

When they aren’t logging the miles, you can find the two friends volunteering together with Best Friends in Houston . And that’s not all: Marylin also fosters cats while Bobbie has a soft spot for helping dogs with special needs.

“They both have such big hearts and are so much fun to be around,” says Deyra Galvan, event and outreach coordinator for Best Friends in Houston. “Their energy is one of a kind. Not only are they amazing volunteers on their own, but their friendship makes them a dynamic duo together.”

Read more about Bobbie and Marylin

Make a difference for pets

Volunteer your time and talents to help pets where you live

Volunteer near you

6 unexpected benefits of fostering a dog during heartworm treatment

Spend a day with Catlin, the kitten blogger

Where animal welfare and social services meet

Photos courtesy of Lori Fufaro, Alesha Davidson, Shara Lopossa, Molly Wald, Namitha Kim, Judy Steiger, Randi Schey, Kimberly Lawson and Marylin Sharp

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, how to write a great community service essay.

College Admissions , Extracurriculars

Are you applying to a college or a scholarship that requires a community service essay? Do you know how to write an essay that will impress readers and clearly show the impact your work had on yourself and others?

Read on to learn step-by-step instructions for writing a great community service essay that will help you stand out and be memorable.

What Is a Community Service Essay? Why Do You Need One?

A community service essay is an essay that describes the volunteer work you did and the impact it had on you and your community. Community service essays can vary widely depending on specific requirements listed in the application, but, in general, they describe the work you did, why you found the work important, and how it benefited people around you.

Community service essays are typically needed for two reasons:

#1: To Apply to College

• Some colleges require students to write community service essays as part of their application or to be eligible for certain scholarships.
• You may also choose to highlight your community service work in your personal statement.

#2: To Apply for Scholarships

• Some scholarships are specifically awarded to students with exceptional community service experiences, and many use community service essays to help choose scholarship recipients.
• Green Mountain College offers one of the most famous of these scholarships. Their "Make a Difference Scholarship" offers full tuition, room, and board to students who have demonstrated a significant, positive impact through their community service

Getting Started With Your Essay

In the following sections, I'll go over each step of how to plan and write your essay. I'll also include sample excerpts for you to look through so you can get a better idea of what readers are looking for when they review your essay.

Step 1: Know the Essay Requirements

Before your start writing a single word, you should be familiar with the essay prompt. Each college or scholarship will have different requirements for their essay, so make sure you read these carefully and understand them.

Specific things to pay attention to include:

• Length requirement
• Application deadline
• The main purpose or focus of the essay
• If the essay should follow a specific structure

Below are three real community service essay prompts. Read through them and notice how much they vary in terms of length, detail, and what information the writer should include.

From the Equitable Excellence Scholarship:

"Describe your outstanding achievement in depth and provide the specific planning, training, goals, and steps taken to make the accomplishment successful. Include details about your role and highlight leadership you provided. Your essay must be a minimum of 350 words but not more than 600 words."

From the Laura W. Bush Traveling Scholarship:

"Essay (up to 500 words, double spaced) explaining your interest in being considered for the award and how your proposed project reflects or is related to both UNESCO's mandate and U.S. interests in promoting peace by sharing advances in education, science, culture, and communications."

From the LULAC National Scholarship Fund:

"Please type or print an essay of 300 words (maximum) on how your academic studies will contribute to your personal & professional goals. In addition, please discuss any community service or extracurricular activities you have been involved in that relate to your goals."

Step 2: Brainstorm Ideas

Even after you understand what the essay should be about, it can still be difficult to begin writing. Answer the following questions to help brainstorm essay ideas. You may be able to incorporate your answers into your essay.

• What community service activity that you've participated in has meant the most to you?
• What is your favorite memory from performing community service?
• Why did you decide to begin community service?
• What made you decide to volunteer where you did?
• How has your community service changed you?
• How has your community service helped others?
• How has your community service affected your plans for the future?

You don't need to answer all the questions, but if you find you have a lot of ideas for one of two of them, those may be things you want to include in your essay.

Writing Your Essay

How you structure your essay will depend on the requirements of the scholarship or school you are applying to. You may give an overview of all the work you did as a volunteer, or highlight a particularly memorable experience. You may focus on your personal growth or how your community benefited.

Regardless of the specific structure requested, follow the guidelines below to make sure your community service essay is memorable and clearly shows the impact of your work.

Samples of mediocre and excellent essays are included below to give you a better idea of how you should draft your own essay.

Step 1: Hook Your Reader In

You want the person reading your essay to be interested, so your first sentence should hook them in and entice them to read more. A good way to do this is to start in the middle of the action. Your first sentence could describe you helping build a house, releasing a rescued animal back to the wild, watching a student you tutored read a book on their own, or something else that quickly gets the reader interested. This will help set your essay apart and make it more memorable.

Compare these two opening sentences:

"I have volunteered at the Wishbone Pet Shelter for three years."

"The moment I saw the starving, mud-splattered puppy brought into the shelter with its tail between its legs, I knew I'd do whatever I could to save it."

The first sentence is a very general, bland statement. The majority of community service essays probably begin a lot like it, but it gives the reader little information and does nothing to draw them in. On the other hand, the second sentence begins immediately with action and helps persuade the reader to keep reading so they can learn what happened to the dog.

Step 2: Discuss the Work You Did

Once you've hooked your reader in with your first sentence, tell them about your community service experiences. State where you work, when you began working, how much time you've spent there, and what your main duties include. This will help the reader quickly put the rest of the essay in context and understand the basics of your community service work.

Not including basic details about your community service could leave your reader confused.

Step 3: Include Specific Details

It's the details of your community service that make your experience unique and memorable, so go into the specifics of what you did.

For example, don't just say you volunteered at a nursing home; talk about reading Mrs. Johnson her favorite book, watching Mr. Scott win at bingo, and seeing the residents play games with their grandchildren at the family day you organized. Try to include specific activities, moments, and people in your essay. Having details like these let the readers really understand what work you did and how it differs from other volunteer experiences.

Compare these two passages:

"For my volunteer work, I tutored children at a local elementary school. I helped them improve their math skills and become more confident students."

"As a volunteer at York Elementary School, I worked one-on-one with second and third graders who struggled with their math skills, particularly addition, subtraction, and fractions. As part of my work, I would create practice problems and quizzes and try to connect math to the students' interests. One of my favorite memories was when Sara, a student I had been working with for several weeks, told me that she enjoyed the math problems I had created about a girl buying and selling horses so much that she asked to help me create math problems for other students."

The first passage only gives basic information about the work done by the volunteer; there is very little detail included, and no evidence is given to support her claims. How did she help students improve their math skills? How did she know they were becoming more confident?

The second passage is much more detailed. It recounts a specific story and explains more fully what kind of work the volunteer did, as well as a specific instance of a student becoming more confident with her math skills. Providing more detail in your essay helps support your claims as well as make your essay more memorable and unique.

Step 4: Show Your Personality

It would be very hard to get a scholarship or place at a school if none of your readers felt like they knew much about you after finishing your essay, so make sure that your essay shows your personality. The way to do this is to state your personal strengths, then provide examples to support your claims. Take some time to think about which parts of your personality you would like your essay to highlight, then write about specific examples to show this.

• If you want to show that you're a motivated leader, describe a time when you organized an event or supervised other volunteers.
• If you want to show your teamwork skills, write about a time you helped a group of people work together better.
• If you want to show that you're a compassionate animal lover, write about taking care of neglected shelter animals and helping each of them find homes.

Step 5: State What You Accomplished

After you have described your community service and given specific examples of your work, you want to begin to wrap your essay up by stating your accomplishments. What was the impact of your community service? Did you build a house for a family to move into? Help students improve their reading skills? Clean up a local park? Make sure the impact of your work is clear; don't be worried about bragging here.

If you can include specific numbers, that will also strengthen your essay. Saying "I delivered meals to 24 home-bound senior citizens" is a stronger example than just saying "I delivered meals to lots of senior citizens."

Also be sure to explain why your work matters. Why is what you did important? Did it provide more parks for kids to play in? Help students get better grades? Give people medical care who would otherwise not have gotten it? This is an important part of your essay, so make sure to go into enough detail that your readers will know exactly what you accomplished and how it helped your community.

"My biggest accomplishment during my community service was helping to organize a family event at the retirement home. The children and grandchildren of many residents attended, and they all enjoyed playing games and watching movies together."

"The community service accomplishment that I'm most proud of is the work I did to help organize the First Annual Family Fun Day at the retirement home. My job was to design and organize fun activities that senior citizens and their younger relatives could enjoy. The event lasted eight hours and included ten different games, two performances, and a movie screening with popcorn. Almost 200 residents and family members attended throughout the day. This event was important because it provided an opportunity for senior citizens to connect with their family members in a way they aren't often able to. It also made the retirement home seem more fun and enjoyable to children, and we have seen an increase in the number of kids coming to visit their grandparents since the event."

The second passage is stronger for a variety of reasons. First, it goes into much more detail about the work the volunteer did. The first passage only states that she helped "organize a family event." That really doesn't tell readers much about her work or what her responsibilities were. The second passage is much clearer; her job was to "design and organize fun activities."

The second passage also explains the event in more depth. A family day can be many things; remember that your readers are likely not familiar with what you're talking about, so details help them get a clearer picture.

Lastly, the second passage makes the importance of the event clear: it helped residents connect with younger family members, and it helped retirement homes seem less intimidating to children, so now some residents see their grand kids more often.

Step 6: Discuss What You Learned

One of the final things to include in your essay should be the impact that your community service had on you. You can discuss skills you learned, such as carpentry, public speaking, animal care, or another skill.

You can also talk about how you changed personally. Are you more patient now? More understanding of others? Do you have a better idea of the type of career you want? Go into depth about this, but be honest. Don't say your community service changed your life if it didn't because trite statements won't impress readers.

In order to support your statements, provide more examples. If you say you're more patient now, how do you know this? Do you get less frustrated while playing with your younger siblings? Are you more willing to help group partners who are struggling with their part of the work? You've probably noticed by now that including specific examples and details is one of the best ways to create a strong and believable essay .

"As a result of my community service, I learned a lot about building houses and became a more mature person."

"As a result of my community service, I gained hands-on experience in construction. I learned how to read blueprints, use a hammer and nails, and begin constructing the foundation of a two-bedroom house. Working on the house could be challenging at times, but it taught me to appreciate the value of hard work and be more willing to pitch in when I see someone needs help. My dad has just started building a shed in our backyard, and I offered to help him with it because I know from my community service how much work it is. I also appreciate my own house more, and I know how lucky I am to have a roof over my head."

The second passage is more impressive and memorable because it describes the skills the writer learned in more detail and recounts a specific story that supports her claim that her community service changed her and made her more helpful.

Step 7: Finish Strong

Just as you started your essay in a way that would grab readers' attention, you want to finish your essay on a strong note as well. A good way to end your essay is to state again the impact your work had on you, your community, or both. Reiterate how you changed as a result of your community service, why you found the work important, or how it helped others.

Compare these two concluding statements:

"In conclusion, I learned a lot from my community service at my local museum, and I hope to keep volunteering and learning more about history."

"To conclude, volunteering at my city's American History Museum has been a great experience. By leading tours and participating in special events, I became better at public speaking and am now more comfortable starting conversations with people. In return, I was able to get more community members interested in history and our local museum. My interest in history has deepened, and I look forward to studying the subject in college and hopefully continuing my volunteer work at my university's own museum."

The second passage takes each point made in the first passage and expands upon it. In a few sentences, the second passage is able to clearly convey what work the volunteer did, how she changed, and how her volunteer work benefited her community.

The author of the second passage also ends her essay discussing her future and how she'd like to continue her community service, which is a good way to wrap things up because it shows your readers that you are committed to community service for the long-term.

What's Next?

Are you applying to a community service scholarship or thinking about it? We have a complete list of all the community service scholarships available to help get your search started!

Do you need a community service letter as well? We have a step-by-step guide that will tell you how to get a great reference letter from your community service supervisor.

Thinking about doing community service abroad? Before you sign up, read our guide on some of the hazards of international volunteer trips and how to know if it's the right choice for you.

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Volunteering at animal shelters around the world: a step-by-step guide

How about helping the animal cause while traveling? Find out all about volunteering at animal shelters in the US or abroad.

Rafaela Beatriz https://www.instagram.com/rafabeatrizzz/

Oct 30, 2023

Since the pandemic, more and more people started thinking about different, more conscious ways of traveling. For many, this reflection awakened the desire to live and travel with a greater sense of purpose , making a positive impact in the world.

If you also feel this calling, I invite you to discover a way to travel while helping those in need by volunteering at animal shelters and other projects that rescue and care for animals. Spending time among nature and animals can be invigorating and transformative for you and change these creatures' lives. 

You might also like to read:

• 15 amazing Worldpackers experiences to volunteer with animals
• How to live on a farm: opportunities and essential tips

Organic gardening: a practical guide to a greener home and lifestyle

Why should you consider volunteering at animal shelters.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates there are nearly 200 million stray dogs worldwide and an even higher number of stray cats.

In addition to all the suffering for the animals, abandonment is also a public health issue , as stray dogs and cats can transmit zoonoses such as rabies and leishmaniasis, among other diseases.

We can help animals in several ways: avoiding travel experiences that involve animal abuse; financially with donations; sponsoring a pet; publicizing the work of organizations dedicated to this care; or with our time and dedication, volunteering at animal shelters.

At the volunteer work platform Worldpackers , there are several NGOs and non-profit projects around the world that are dedicated to the protection of  animal rights, including shelters and social projects, all verified by the platform.

The volunteer programs through the platform consist of a collaborative experience where you offer your time and dedication in exchange for accommodation and other benefits.

In this article, you will find what you need to know before looking for volunteer work in animal welfare. I'll also share some of the best animal shelters and animal rights NGOs that are looking for volunteers in many parts of the world..

Where to find opportunities to volunteer at animal shelters

There are many animal shelters and NGOs focused on animal care in the US and abroad, but it's not always easy to volunteer for these organizations. As this is serious and delicate work, these places need to take many precautions when selecting a person to volunteer.

That's where Worldpackers comes in: the platform works as an intermediary between people interested in collaborating and animal shelters and NGOs that need help. On the website, the host can see your profile and reviews, and you can read about the host and the volunteering opportunity.

There are several vacancies available at Worldpackers, with different types of projects in various destinations. You can volunteer for weeks or even months, exchanging your work for accommodation. In some cases, hosts also provide other benefits such as meals, laundry, and tours.

Not to mention the opportunity to experience nature and be in touch with the local community, an experience much deeper from the one you’d have if you just passed through the destination quickly as a typical tourist.

Using the platform's filters, you can view all vacancies in NGOs or select the skill “ Animal care ”. That way you’ll find positions for volunteering at animal shelters and other opportunities to care for animals all over the world. You can also select your preferred destination (continent, country, state or city) and see the positions available there.

And if what you are looking for is volunteering in nature, whether with animals or not, it is also possible to contribute with various types ecological projects , from beach cleaning actions to work with permaculture and bioconstruction or agroecology.

Tips for volunteering at animal shelters

Volunteer work at an animal shelter generally consists of care such as feeding, bathing, walking, cleaning kennels and utensils and participating in the adoption and socialization process.

In addition to volunteering with domestic animals, such as dogs and cats, you can also find projects and sanctuaries focused on caring for wild animals and farm animals.

I’ll give you some super cool examples of volunteer positions to help animals around the world later in this article. But first, let's talk about some important points that you should understand before having an experience of this type.

Keep reading:

• How to find volunteer jobs? Worldpackers can help you
• 15 types of volunteer work and how to choose the right one
• Volunteering for an NGO abroad: your top questions answered

Loving animals is just the beginning

To work or volunteer at animal shelters and similar places, love for animals is a must, of course. But it's not enough. Volunteering with animals require enormous responsibility.

You must be open to learning new skills and prepared to work hard and get your hands dirty. Remember: working with animals involves fur, smells, feathers, noises...

You won't always work directly with the animals

The routine of volunteering at animal shelters can be very diverse. Taking care of animals also involves caring for their space through maintenance, cleaning and gardening, among other tasks.

Producing content for social media and other activities to publicize the project are also possible demands from hosts, as well as administrative tasks.

Remember that the main goal in any volunteer position is to fulfill the needs of the host organization and, in this case, help the animals in need. Your personal preferences should be considered, but they’re not the priority.

Specific tasks vary depending on the host organization’s needs, as you can see on the descriptions at the hosts’ profile pages. 

A typical day as a volunteer may include:

• Socializing with the animals and giving them affection;
• Walking the dogs and train them to walk on a leash;
• Feeding the animals and giving them water;
• Assisting with medical care, as instructed by professionals;
• Cleaning the shelter facilities and property grounds, cleaning the dog kennels, and cleaning your volunteer accommodation and communal areas;
• Hosting tours of the shelter and talking with visitors;
• Producing content for advertising and social media;]
• Helping with administrative tasks.

It is important to believe in the purpose of the organization

Volunteering through Worldpackers, where you get free accommodation, is an option to save money on your trip . However, to work on projects such as animal shelters and NGOs, you need to be aligned with the purposes of the place, so that the work makes sense to you.

Before applying for the position, carefully read the description of that opportunity on the Worldpackers platform and research the organization. It's also worth getting in touch with people who have already been there , which you can do through the platform itself. If you have any questions about the organizations' values and functioning, you can also ask the host.

Previous experience is often not necessary…

In most of the volunteer positions available at Worldpackers, it is not necessary for you to have previous experience working with animals or professional training in the field. You just need to have a desire to help and be open to learning in practice the skills needed for day-to-day activities.

…But responsibility is always a must

Even without experience volunteering with animals, you should take this opportunity very seriously, as we've mentioned before. Don't commit to things you don't feel like you'd be capable of doing.

Working in animal shelters, NGOs and social projects can require psychological preparation , as there may be sick, injured, and traumatized animals, and contact with them requires a lot of care and attention. Always respect the site's procedures and rules, for everyone's safety.

Go beyond volunteering

Knowing the history of the place, the employees and everything that involves the operation of where you chose to volunteer will further enrich your experience, in addition to helping you become a better volunteer.

And even once you’re not volunteering there anymore, you can continue helping in many ways, such as donating or promoting the animal shelter on social media.

5 opportunities for volunteering at animal shelters

Now that you know what it's like to volunteer at an animal shelter, look at these vacancies we've selected for you to start planning your volunteering experience:

1. Texas, USA

The Llama Rescue Foster Farm welcomes travelers who want to make a difference in the lives of llamas or alpacas that have been rescued. You can explore the hill country of Texas in your off hours and the hosts tailor projects to the talents volunteers may have , as there are many tasks to choose from.

Among other things, you can help cleaning or repairing facilities and caring for the animals . In exchange for your volunteer work, you’ll get lodging in a cabin and three vegetarian meals a day. See more information at the host's profile page on Worldpackers.

“The people I met here are lovely, if you are looking for a peaceful place with contact with nature and beautiful, docile llamas, this is the perfect place. You need to treat them well and respect their schedules, animals have a routine, and you need to follow it. I would come back here again!”, said former volunteer Elizete.

2. Amealco, Mexico

Learn about animals, permaculture and eco-living at the Animal Shepherd Farm Sanctuary, a hilltop retreat in the countryside in the magical town of Amealco, Mexico . More than 100 abused and neglected animals rescued from the streets call the place home, living without cages. They need volunteers who love cats and dogs and are comfortable with basic outdoor and farm work.

The tasks might include housekeeping, making compost, animal feeding and cleaning, bio-construction, farm renovation, gardening and forestry, social media management, and decoration, depending on your skills and interests.

On your free time, you can enjoy the close contact with nature . The site is surrounded by woodland where you can catch a glimpse of squirrels, sparrow hawks and glow-worms. You can also stroll down to the village nearby or explore the lively town of Amealco.

Check out the review by former volunteer David, from Australia: “Animal Shephard was an amazing and eye-opening experience , learning about the operations of an animal shelter for dogs and cats. Ryan is environmentally aware and aims to have his farm off grid, so along with taking care of cats and dogs, volunteers are encouraged to contribute/help with environmental projects. Be prepared to get your hands (and body) dirty, so bring outdoor clothes and a good pair of shoes/boots!”.

3. Simabô, Cape Verde

Does living on an island in Cape Verde while taking care of pets sound like a dream to you? At Simabô, an NGO that takes care of abandoned dogs and cats in Mindelo, volunteers are responsible for playing with the animals and taking them for walks . A dream job!

They have paid staff to clean and feed the animals, and your task will be primarily to walk the dogs, play with them, brush and cuddle them and check that they are in good health, especially the puppies. Clear instructions will be provided for accomplishing tasks and volunteers are required to perform them accurately.

"The experience at Simabô was the best thing I’ve done in my life so far. In addition to accomplishing the dream to live in another culture, I was able to do incredible work in a wonderful place with very inspiring people. The choice of the NGO could not have been better. I was very well received and the work itself is enriching", said Worldpackers’ traveler Danielle.

4. Allqo Llaqta, Peru

This stray dog rescue center in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in Peru, needs help with the daily operation of the rescue center, hosting tours of the shelter for visitors , and working with the local population to raise awareness in dog welfare. Find out more by checking out this animal shelter's page on the Worldpackers platform.

Here’s the testimony of volunteer Alice, who spent time there through Worldpackers: "An incredible experience!! All the volunteers are wonderful, we became a family and shared the tasks easily. The dogs are beautiful, very kind and love to receive affection. We carry out tasks related to caring for the dogs and maintaining the refuge, all as a team. Fabrizio has incredible energy and a lot of love for the dogs, which makes everything easier! A beautiful experience that I highly recommend :)"

5. Pucón, Chile

What about getting to know the charming city of Pucón, in the Lakes Region of Chile, while taking care of friendly horses? Check out this volunteering opportunity with horses at the Kodkod organization.

The tasks to be carried out are defined each week by the hosts, but some recurring activities are cleaning the stables, cleaning and feeding the horses , and accompanying the rides as an assistant.

The place is beautiful, and the experience allows for a lot of contact with nature. As the host’s profile says, their community “has been created to facilitate our positive connections with the environment. We believe that it is important to live not only prioritizing economic aspects in life but looking for the ecological limits of them. Saving the planet is something that begins with the way each of us organizes our own way of life: our jobs, what we eat, or what we value”.

“The place is incredible, I felt great in the middle of nature. The work is very relaxed, and the hours are super flexible (I had to change my day off and Camilo was super understandable)”, said the volunteer Sabrina.

Now that you know how to volunteer in animal shelters around the world, search the Worldpackers platform for positions related to animal care and get ready to make a difference while you have the time of your life . Enjoy!

Join the community!

Create a free Worldpackers account to discover volunteer experiences perfect for you and get access to exclusive travel discounts!

Rafaela Beatriz Miranda De Menezes

https://www.instagram.com/rafabeatrizzz/

Viajante em tempo integral e redatora de conteúdo nas horas vagas, apaixonada por explorar novos lugares e culturas.

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How to support environmental projects around the world through volunteering

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Volunteering At An Animal Shelter by Mykaella

Mykaellaof WEST PALM BEACH's entry into Varsity Tutor's January 2017 scholarship contest

Volunteering At An Animal Shelter by Mykaella - January 2017 Scholarship Essay

As a little girl, I've always loved animals. Cats, dogs, little bunnies, you name it. About a year ago, I decided to volunteer at a nice animal shelter down the street from where I live. Working at an animal shelter isn’t the most glamorous thing. I can tell you from firsthand experience: Do not wear your favorite shirt when training the dogs how to sit and stay because the big slobbering kiss that the Boxer is going to give you is going all over it. I wouldn’t wear new sneakers when taking the dogs out for a nice stroll either, you never know where you plan on stepping and you most certainly don’t want to accidentally step in any dog waste.

Despite all this, volunteering at the animal shelter is a great experience. It showed me that there are a lot of wonderful pets who are placed into shelters each and every day who really just want to be loved. It inspired me to encourage the people in my community to go out and adopt from animal shelters instead of buying pets. A neighbor of mine decided to go ahead and do so, adopting a little yorkie terrier named Chewy. Lisa claims that adopting Chewy was one of the best decisions she’s ever made. Lisa suffers from anxiety and depression, but ever since she’s gotten Chewy, her anxiety and depression issues has decreased drastically.

“I don’t feel so alone anymore,” says Lisa. “Chewy makes me happy and I’m not sure where I’d be without him.”

Volunteering at an Animal Shelter: How to Get Started

Wondering how to volunteer at an animal shelter? Here’s what to expect when volunteering at an animal shelter — from the moment you apply to the day you start.

Table of Contents

People volunteer with animals for many reasons, but not everyone is ready for the commitment involved.

If you’re wondering “what do volunteers do at animal shelters”, the answer is much more complex than just petting kittens and walking puppies; shelters need a lot more from their volunteers. Here’s some important information on how to volunteer at an animal shelter.

First, contact your preferred shelter and find out what their volunteer needs are. Although many shelters are always in need of extra hands , some are fortunate enough to have more than enough volunteers and may have a waiting list.

You may be required to:

• Fill out an application
• Attend an orientation
• Make a tax-deductible donation (to cover potential costs associated with volunteering)
• Participate in training courses
• Sign a liability waiver

Every shelter follows its own set of guidelines regarding volunteers. Some have rigid procedures; others require no more than a signature and identification before handing over a leash.

Responsibilities When Volunteering at an Animal Shelter

You may wonder what sort of duties you could be responsible for as a volunteer and be wondering what do you do when you volunteer at an animal shelter. Chances are your shelter is wondering what sort of duties you’d be willing to perform beyond playing the day away with masses of puppies.

Although lots of face time with puppies and kittens may very well be requested of you, other needs may include:

• Walking dogs
• Socializing cats
• Showing pets to potential adopters
• Cleaning, cleaning, cleaning
• Photographing pets
• Landscaping
• Office tasks such as printing or copying

Decide what tasks you’d be most comfortable with initially and make sure the staff is aware of any limitations you have. As you spend more time volunteering, you’ll find a good routine and may even take on more hours and responsibilities.

Check out this video of some of the jobs performed by animal shelter volunteers at mrspac:

Commitment When Volunteering at an Animal Shelter

Because most are nonprofits, shelters need volunteers to keep operations running smoothly and the doors open to the public.

If volunteers are in such dire need, then, why do some shelters have such complicated application processes? Believe it or not, it’s not to frustrate or deter you — it’s to ensure that you are committed and reliable .

Too often, shelters receive interest from people who aren’t prepared to dedicate more than 1 or 2 visits at the most. If each volunteer needs training to handle the animals and understand standard procedures, the process is a waste when trained volunteers quit after spending as little as 20 minutes playing with the animals.

Here’s what you can do to prepare yourself for volunteering:

• Set aside at least 2 hours per week specifically for spending at the shelter.
• Turn your volunteer time into part of your routine so it’s harder to skip.
• Consider becoming a volunteer with a friend or family member so you can go together.

Reliability is one of the most important characteristics needed in volunteers. Shelters need to know they can count on a core group of people to help the animals stay healthy and happy. So if you know that you plan to volunteer only for a limited time, inform the staff when you apply.

Here are some of the other character traits that can be useful when volunteering at an animal shelter:

• Responsible 
• Open to learning new things
• Loves animals

15 Things to Know Before Volunteering at an Animal Shelter

Volunteering at an animal shelter can be a rewarding experience with many benefits. It also helps shelters that are low on labor continue their endless care of animals.

Shelters are not all created equal, and volunteering can be very different from one city to the next.

If you’re thinking of helping out at your local shelter and are curious about how to volunteer at an animal shelter, here are some things you need to know before grabbing your volunteer T-shirt and diving straight in:

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1. Time Commitment

Shelters may have a set schedule for their volunteers, so you might not be able to sign up for just an event or pop in when you have a free day.

There might also be a minimum amount of hours to meet to keep your volunteer title, so always ask up front what’s expected of you.

2. Training Requirements

You may be required to complete a training program or class before you can work at the shelter. Training may be given for each individual or, like at my shelter, held only once per month.

Ask when the next training will be available and how long it will take.

3. Tasks Involved

This item is particularly important. What you may end up doing can be far from what you imagine.

• Are you allergic to cats but not dogs, or vice versa?
• Do you detest poop but are happy to pass out fliers or answer the phones?

If you’re wondering what do animal shelter volunteers do, there are many tasks involved for the shelter to keep running, so ask what is available and see which tasks you prefer to tackle.

4. Animal Types and Sizes

Check to see what types of animals are housed or taken in at the shelter before signing up.

Most shelters have cats and dogs, but some may take in birds, rats or snakes. If you have an aversion to any type of animal, ask which ones you will be expected to assist.

Some shelters have separate buildings for cats and dogs.

5. Weather Conditions

Indoor areas are normally climate-controlled, but you may have to work in outdoor areas or runs for the animals.

Extreme heat or cold may be possible depending on your location, so be prepared to work with the elements or request indoor-only work.

6. Accident and Injury Policy

You may be volunteering at your own risk. Some facilities may require you to sign a waiver so that they will not be held liable if you are injured or involved in an accident.

If this is a major concern for you, ask about it in advance.

7. Equipment Use

Different types of equipment may be required for certain jobs.

Ask about the tools you will need to perform for your volunteering duties in case it’s something unexpected. Office work uses pretty standard equipment, but you might need to use pressure washers or construction equipment.

8. Noise Level

Even though shelters may take excellent care of their animals, even my own facility can be ear splitting with nonstop barking at times.

The cat cottage is much quieter, but if noise is a concern you might want to ask where you will be working and with which animals. Ear plugs are not an unusual sight.

9. Scared Animals

Not every animal at the shelter is used to being there or enjoys their surroundings, and they may be just as scared of you as you are of them.

As you get to know the animals, they can become more comfortable around you.

If you are unsure about approaching an animal, ask a shelter employee for assistance first. Accidents can and do happen, and sometimes a scratch or bite is just a scared animal’s way of trying to protect itself.

10. Applications

Shelters may require you to complete a paper or online application before you can be considered for volunteer work.

These applications can vary greatly. Some may ask for basic information such as your address or phone number, while others may require employment history, references and more.

Ask for a sample application if it’s required, and feel free to ask questions about the information they are requesting.

11. Allergies

Even if your duties restrict you to an office, being inside an animal shelter is a sure bet that you will come into contact with pet hair and dander. This shouldn’t deter you, though — there are plenty of ways you can help the shelter without having to be inside.

Graphic design, passing out handbills, volunteering at a fundraiser and more are all great ways to get involved without the fur flying by your nose.

12. Volunteer Overload

Shelters can be overflowing with volunteers sometimes, and they may not need or want to take on additional volunteers. Don’t fret.

Check around at other shelters or call rescue organizations to see if they can use some help. This could be anything from working with the animals to doing graphic design or helping them advertise available animals for adoption.

13. Shelter Expectations

If you haven’t been to your local shelter yet, stop by and ask for a tour. Shelters are operated differently — some may resemble a clinic or zoo while others are underfunded and understaffed. If your priority is helping a no-kill shelter, ask if they euthanize animals before you sign up.

Many shelters operate veterinary services at their locations, and those will involve euthanizations for ill pets. The type of euthanasia mentioned previously refers to shelters that euthanize animals due to overcrowding.

Unfortunately, many places still do this across the country, so ask up front if it’s a sticky point for you.

14. Animal Person May Not Equal a People Person

Some people work with animals because they prefer their company over people. In short, don’t take offense if someone seems a little quiet or shy. You have a common interest at heart, and talking about animals is a sure way to strike up a conversation.

15. Heartbreak

If you volunteer at a kill shelter, it can be heartbreaking to see animals you have come to know and love be taken for euthanasia. Even in a no-kill shelter like mine it’s easy to get attached to the animals and miss them once they are adopted.

You will also see animals in pain, dealing with injuries, trying to recover from abuse or even being returned after being adopted.

The key to being fully prepared before volunteering is getting the answers to the above questions. Also, be honest and realistic about how much time and effort you can spare.

7 Benefits of Volunteering at an Animal Shelter

From a practical standpoint, volunteering for a nonprofit organization is a great addition to your resume. It is also an easy way to open some doors if you’re looking to land a paying job in a shelter.

Here are 7 benefits of volunteering at an animal shelter:

1. Meet new friends. You will be surrounded by people who love animals as much as you do, and they might even become your lifelong friends. This widens your social circle and incorporates compassionate people who share your interest in helping animals. Guinea pigs, rabbits and even birds end up in shelters, so you’ll also learn about other animals too.

2. Your efforts will help an animal get ready and increase its chances for a new home. Animals coming into the shelter vary according to their needs. A feral cat may need to be socialized , a dog may have mats to remove or a guinea pig may be underweight. Animals that appear happy and healthy have a higher chance of being adopted, and shelters need your help to achieve this.

3. Boost your mood — and your health. Volunteering gives us a sense of satisfaction for helping others, can lower stress, make you feel needed and appreciated, increase happiness and so much more. A study reported on in Natural Health magazine in 2007 showed that 95% of volunteers surveyed said they gained a “helper’s high” — a feeling of euphoria and energy. Volunteering truly is a feel-good activity, and what better way to spend the day than with cuddly and furry friends?

4. Gain experience. Whether you’re working the phones, stuffing mailers, grooming or arranging meet-and-greet sessions with potential owners, you are gaining experience in many areas that can have great benefits in other areas of your life. Young adults can become better acquainted with animals, experience a set schedule of responsibilities, and gain a reference for an employment or college application. Working adults may include it on their resume or incorporate animal shelters into their work-related events and charitable causes. Someone who is unemployed can get a boost of self-esteem and confidence by being part of a vital team while looking for work.

5. Trying something new is fun! A new activity can be exciting and a change of pace for a mundane or repetitive schedule. Why not make that something new be volunteering? You will gain a host of other benefits, and the rush of happiness when a pet you helped gets a new “forever home” is nothing short of amazing.

6. Stay active. Being a volunteer keeps your mind, body and emotions active and healthy. Sitting at home on weekends in front of a television can get boring and leave many of your talents unused. Volunteering that time instead keeps you thinking, moving and feeling, and can help increase physical mobility. Besides, playing with a puppy sounds much more fun than being a couch potato!

7. Become part of a very important team. Animal shelters need money and people to stay open. Some of them face closure constantly, and you could be that one extra hand that helps another pet get adopted, shepherds through another donation or encourages a new person to volunteer. The ASPCA estimates that there are about 5,000 shelters across the country, and these shelters take in an average of five to seven million animals per year. The animals keep coming, and more people are needed every day.

Volunteering can be a long-term commitment and may not always be easy or convenient, but if you can stick with it, volunteering with animals is one of the most rewarding experiences available. All it requires is a little dedication and a whole lot of love.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How does volunteering at an animal shelter help the community .

Volunteering at animal shelters helps them stay open because you are providing important services. It also helps members of the community by ensuring there is a place that houses animals and keeps them happy and healthy so that they can find a pet to take home and love. Volunteering at an animal shelter also gives you a chance to work with others who share the same love of animals which helps foster a sense of community and creates a bond with new people. 

Is Volunteering at an Animal Shelter Community Service?

Being an animal shelter volunteer is often an unpaid position where you volunteer your time and energy for the betterment of the shelter and its services, and therefore the community.  

How Old Do You Have to be to Volunteer at an Animal Shelter?

If you’re asking “how do you volunteer at an animal shelter” and what the age requirements are, then its important to know that the criteria varies. Different cities and countries will have different age requirements for working with animals and volunteering at their shelters. In general, 15-16 years old is a common age for people to begin volunteering at an animal shelter, but it can vary from state to state so it is best to check in with your local shelter and ask around for information regarding age requirements. 

Kristine Lacoste, Petful’s editor in chief — and an animal shelter volunteer — contributed to this article.

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Volunteer at AHS

From in-shelter support to at-home foster care, volunteers support every facet of our work. Together, we're creating a more humane world for animals.

Explore opportunities and apply Review volunteering FAQs

Volunteer requirements

• Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. If you're younger than 16, there are other ways to support animals and AHS.
• Volunteers must read and comprehend detailed policy and protocol information and follow shelter rules.
• Human interaction is a requirement of all volunteer roles. Volunteers must always communicate professionally.
• Volunteers must understand and fulfill all responsibilities of their role independently.
• New in-shelter volunteers are required to begin in an entry-level role and are not allowed to take on tasks that require direct animal handling . Foundational volunteers offer their time and talents to AHS without having to commit to long-term volunteering or a specific shift.
• Most volunteer roles require volunteers to stand, and/or walk for up to three hours; lift and carry up to 20 pounds; reach and lift; possess vision abilities including close vision, distance vision and depth perception; and speak to customers, employees, and other volunteers.

Group volunteer opportunities

Your group can support our work and the animals in our care by coordinating and participating in offsite group service projects (like making toys, collecting and donating items from our “wish list,” or holding a fundraiser). Learn more about group volunteering options .

Volunteer roles and application process

Animal lovers who are interested in becoming a volunteer at AHS must complete a four-step process. Learn more about available opportunities (including foster volunteering), the application process, and what to expect once you’ve submitted your application.

Current volunteers

Log in to Digital Cheetah or Learning Lab.

For caring, compassionate advice and resources to address all your animal concerns.

Contact the Pet Helpline

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10 Reasons to Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

Are you looking for a way to give back? You might want to consider volunteering at your local animal shelter. Not only will you be giving back to an animal in need, you will discover other benefits, too.

1.Boost your mood and reduce stress: Naturally, volunteering produces good feelings about serving someone in need. Volunteering at a shelter has the added benefit of being around animals, which has shown to lower stress and blood pressure. Cuddling and petting animals also help boost your serotonin and dopamine levels, which in turn helps you relax and feel happy.

2. You are making a difference: As an animal shelter volunteer, your primary goal is to help make the animal adoptable. This involves feeding the animals so they can be a healthy weight, bathing and grooming them and helping abused or stray animals become accustomed to human interaction. All these tasks help the animal find a happy home and better life filled will love.

3. There is a big need for volunteers: Animal shelters can’t function without the help from volunteers. There are so many animals constantly being brought in and lots of tasks need to be done. Volunteering a couple of hours of your time every week can help give animals another chance.

4. Make new friends and become a team player: If you are an animal lover, chances are the other volunteers will be animal lovers too. You will be able to meet other like-minded individuals who are just as passionate about rescuing animal as well. Volunteering will also teach you how to work as a team to get major tasks done.

5. Gain work experience or service hours: Volunteering is a great way to get work experience or boost your resume. It is also a great way for high schoolers or young adults to get service hours. Just because you are volunteering doesn’t mean you aren’t developing new skills that will help you along your career.

6. Help develop a sense of responsibility and selflessness: Helping at an animal shelter can be a big responsibility. Not only are the animals depending on you, but the entire organization is also depending on you. You might think dog walking or socializing with cats isn’t making a difference, but it has a bigger impact than you know. Volunteering also helps you become selfless by giving your time to your community . All these skills help make a leader.

7. Something new and fun: If you need a change of pace, volunteering at your local animal shelter can give you something new to do. Invite your friends and make a day out of it. You will be able to bond with them and your new furry friends.

8. Not a people person? No problem: Let’s face it, not everyone is a people person and that’s OK. You will mostly be in contact with animals and focused on their care. This is perfect if you are shy or prefer keeping to yourself.

9. Stay active: Dog walking is one of the main tasks at shelters. Dog walking will help you get some fresh air and burn calories. Other tasks may involve a lot of cleaning which can also give you a small workout.

10. You get be around animals who need you: The best part about volunteering at a shelter are the animals! You get to play and care for cats and dogs while helping them get adopted. You will build bonds and see your new furry friend’s personalities develop. In turn you will experience the unconditional love only a dog or cat can give.

Are you experiencing depression or anxiety? Visit our Psychiatry & Behavioral Health Service page for more information.

You may also be interested in:

5 benefits of dog ownership.

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• Oct 23, 2020

Why You Should Volunteer at an Animal Rescue

Updated: Oct 24, 2020

Are you looking for a community service project for school credit? Wanting to boost your resume? Do you want to spend time with animals or are considering adopting, but aren't quite ready to make the leap? Perhaps you’re looking to make new friends? We invite you to consider volunteering at BCARL.

Even if you’re only giving a few hours a week of service, your time and effort really makes a huge impact on the animals, workers, and community.

Here are the top 3 reasons why you should consider becoming a volunteer.

It’s Beneficial for You

It’s no secret that spending quality time with animals has numerous health benefits . In fact, many studies have conclusively confirmed that being spending time with animals is good for your emotional, physical, and mental health . Unfortunately, not everyone has the luxury of bringing home a furry friend. But if you’re unable to have a pet at home, you can still reap many of the same benefits by bonding with the animals at your local rescue facility.

When you volunteer at an animal rescue, you instantly see the results of your labor, which is a reward in and of itself. Studies have linked our work satisfaction to the meaningfulness of our work , and there’s little more satisfying than seeing a fearful, damaged animal made whole and thriving by your love, care, and efforts.

Also, if you’re considering adoption but aren’t yet ready to make the leap, volunteering is a great way to dip your toes in the water.

It’s Beneficial for Animals in Need

BCARL is a non-profit, as are most local animal rescue facilities. This means that we are based entirely on donations (of both time and money). Volunteers are able to fill in the gaps of needed services. Volunteers help to socialize the animals, spend time with them, walk them, and many other important tasks that help keep the facility running.

Of course, many people think working with animals means snuggling puppies all day, and while there are plenty of opportunities for play and bonding time, much of animal welfare involves behind-the-scenes work as well as hands-on interactions and daily animal care. It’s important to be realistic about the nitty gritty of animal volunteerism, because the animals in our care depend on us to provide their needs and to help them move on to their forever family.

When an abused, hurt, or sick animal is surrendered to BCARL, it can be one of the most difficult things about working or volunteering at the facility. But when you volunteer, you have the privilege of watching their wounds heal. And more than that, you become part of their healing process. At BCARL, we watch dogs go from cowering at the back of their kennel to running to the gate with their tail wagging, begging you to take them out to play.

The transformations are always amazing, and knowing you played a part in their recovery is so very, very rewarding.

It’s Beneficial for the Community

By volunteering, you contribute to a cause you care about. So, if you are passionate about saving animals, volunteering at BCARL would be right up your alley. And even more, you create a better community to live in. Volunteering inherently means helping, and it provides the unique opportunity of connecting people in the community with shared values. Volunteering makes a difference in your community because it allows us to make a real difference to the lives of the animals, people, and organization in need. This holistic approach creates a better community for everyone.

When all is said and done, being an animal rescue volunteer at BCARL makes you feel like you are doing a good thing. And we need more good things in the world.

Your work ensures that the health and well-being of animals in your care is improved, so that each animal has the best possible chance of finding a new home.

You are contributing to the solution, which makes you feel good about the work you are doing. If you’re interested in finding out more about our volunteer opportunities, check out our volunteer process !

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Volunteer at animal shelter - Admission/Application Essay Example

• Subject: Health Sciences & Medicine
• Type: Admission/Application Essay
• Level: Undergraduate
• Pages: 1 (250 words)
• Downloads: 3
• Author: nlittel

Extract of sample "Volunteer at animal shelter"

My Reasons for Participating in Volunteer Activities at Austin Animal Center Many people often find it difficult to work as a volunteer. This is based on the fact that volunteers are not paid for the services they offer. However, I have always believed that providing help without expecting any return is important since there are people and animals that require such help. It is for this reason that I decided to offer my free services as a volunteer at Austin Animal Center, which is one of the largest organization in Texas that offer wandering and unwanted animals shelter and care through adoption (Austin Animal Center par.2). Currently the center acts as home for more than 23,000 animals yearly.

My main work as a volunteer at Austin Animal Center included caring for the dogs by cleaning their cages, washing them, playing with them, and taking them for a walk. My reasons for volunteering at the Austin Animal Center were informed by my passion for being around (friendly) animals. I also felt the need to make a difference in the lives of the animals adopted by the organization. In fact, I believe that my presence as a volunteer has made a big difference in the lives of the dogs adopted by the organization since I have kept them and their cages clean.

Additionally, being someone who likes a clean environment, I opted to work as a volunteer to ensure that the environment in which the animals live is kept clean.Apart from the assistance I have provided through volunteer work, I have been able to gain a lot of exposure in dealing with real life challenges and providing animal needs. In this respect, voluntary service has helped me develop new skills and knowledge. In addition, I believe volunteering also improved the strength of my curriculum vitae, since many employers tend to look for candidates’ volunteer experience.

I challenge those fear volunteering in any organization to cast away their fears and make a difference in the lives of people and animals in needWorks CitedAustin Animal Center. Dog Days of summer. Web. 30 July 2013, https://www.facebook.com/austinanimalservices

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5 Reasons to volunteer at a local animal shelter

If you love pets, you can become an animal shelter volunteer at your local SPCA. The experience has many advantages for your career as well as your overall well-being. Here are the top reasons to volunteer at an animal shelter.

1. Your Local SPCA needs Volunteers

Volunteering at your local SPCA is one way to give back to the community. Many animal shelters are looking for volunteers to help them with various aspects of raising pets.

Most animal shelters would struggle without volunteers. Abandoned and abused dogs need to interact with people to get used to human interaction. They also need to be fed and walked regularly.

2. It is Beneficial for Your Emotional and Mental Health

Generally speaking, giving back to the community has positive emotional and psychological effects. Working with animals has additional benefits that can boost your overall health.

Petting and cuddling pets have been shown to reduce blood pressure and increase levels of serotonin and dopamine. Those hormones help you to relax and manage depression and stress. Studies show that people who frequently play with pets tend to have lower levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

3. There are Lots of Fun Activities to Do

Another benefit of working with a local SPCA is that there are many activities. You can pick from an activity that you enjoy even as you help out at the animal hospital. For example, if you love photography, you can volunteer to take pictures of pups.

If you enjoy DIY and crafts, you can volunteer to make toys for your local vet clinic. You can work as an adoption counselor to match pets and their new owners. There are children’s programs and many other activities that may coincide with your skills and passion.

An animal shelter will need volunteers for:

Walking and taking care of the dog

Administrative and counseling duties

Making toys for cats and dogs

Cooking food and making treats for pets

4. Prepare Yourself to Adopt a Pet

Volunteering at a local SPCA is a great way to gain experience in taking care of dogs or cats. There are lots of things you can learn about taking care of pets. By the end of the program, you will have learned about animal psychology and physical health.

If you plan to adopt a pet in the future, working at an animal shelter will give you the experience you need. You can tap into the knowledge of other professionals at the local veterinarian. You will have the opportunity to ask questions from highly skilled staff.

5. Open Up New Opportunities

Volunteer work has many long-term benefits and can open up new opportunities for you. You can use the experience on your resume. You may also use the experience to find a job or another volunteering opportunity.

Time to Get Involved

The beauty of working for a local animal shelter is that you can choose from many activities and responsibilities. The work hours are flexible, allowing you to commit a few hours a week. Always choose something you enjoy so that you can make the most of the experience. At The Brandywine Valley SPCA, there is always a wide variety of volunteer opportunities at both our Delaware and Pennsylvania campuses. Feel free to call or visit to learn more.

All rights reserved. © 2024 Brandywine Valley SPCA.

Mark your calendars for Walk for Paws!

Join us April 27, 2024 at West Goshen Community Park | 10 am - 1 pm for a 5K color run, a 1K walk led by Fox29’s Sue Serio, and yoga with puppies, live music, vendors, food trucks, a pet costume contest, kid fun zone, a dog lure course, and so much more! 

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Lewis clark animal shelter.

Mission: To provide shelter, health care and neglect/abuse intervention for stray and abandoned pets. To provide humane education enhancing the human-animal bond and to end pet over-population through an aggressive spay/neuter campaign. Vision: Lewis Clark Animal Shelter envisions a time when our community celebrates the human-animal bond, embraces the mutual benefits therein and treats all fellow beings with care, compassion and respect; a time when LCAS is primarily a resource for health, education and entertainment services for animals and people.

Mission: To provide shelter, health care and neglect/abuse intervention for stray and abandoned pets. To provide humane education enhancing the human-animal bond and to end pet over-population through an aggressive spay/neuter campaign…

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From crisis to care: How animal hoarding is straining Minnesota shelters and spotlighting mental health

Three cases of animal hoarding in Minnesota since late February are filling up shelters and drawing attention to the mental health struggles that often lead to the problem.

On Thursday, The Bond Between, an animal rescue service, took in about 50 rescue cats from a home in the Iron Range.

“With the help of our fosters and volunteers, we can offer them the chance they deserve for a better life,” Jennifer Schroeder, director of rescue operations, said in a statement.

Another case involves a Crystal woman with 124 cats in her home, who was charged with several counts of cruelty in Hennepin County Court on Monday. The Animal Humane Society in Golden Valley is caring for the surviving cats. The third case, in Crosby, involved more than 100 cats rescued by Minnesota Federated Humane Societies investigators and law enforcement. Most went to the Tri-County Humane Society in St. Cloud.

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Marit Ortega, executive director of Tri-County, said they received more cats than expected.

“Getting them in, that process took five hours with about a dozen staff, two of the Minnesota Federated Humane Society agents who were on the case all day, and they stayed with us until the end. And it was a lot of work,” Ortega told MPR News on Thursday morning.

Intake at Tri-County involved scanning cats for microchips, administering vaccines and an examination — during which staff found all the cats had fleas, and many had upper respiratory infections and parasites — before getting the animals settled in with food, water, and a litter box. Next, all the cats will be spayed or neutered, microchipped and undergo further health testing. It all adds up to about $200 per animal.

“It isn’t a large expense all at once,” Ortega said. “But when this is said and done, it is a little bit of a strain.” Tri-County is actively fundraising and has received a lot of support from the community, she added.

Hoarding happens when someone has so many animals that they can no longer provide basic care, including food and water, sanitation, socialization, shelter and access to veterinary care, according to the Animal Humane Society. If the animals aren’t spayed or neutered, the situation can quickly worsen.

A spokesperson for the Minnesota Federated Humane Societies told MPR News on Tuesday that one of the main reasons people hoard animals is mental health struggles, and that “not every case should be charged.” Their main goal is “getting animals and people the care they need,” including more mental health resources. Concerned parties can contact the Minnesota Hoarding Task Force ; the group works to educate and connect people affected by hoarding with resources.

At the same time, seeing cases of animal cruelty or neglect can be tough for shelter staff and volunteers.

“Working at an animal shelter on a good day can take its toll on those of us who choose this profession,” Ortega said. “I can tell you in our 50 years of existence at Tri-County Humane Society, we’ve never taken this many in at once… But I would say I am completely impressed by how well our staff and volunteers have just stepped up to the plate.”

The first cat, Kraemer, from the Crosby hoarding case found a new home Wednesday.

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STEAM, STEAM for Kids: S.T.E.A.M Community Superheroes Club for little learners: Animal Shelter Volunteers @Huguenot Park Library

The Huguenot Park Library presents S.T.E.A.M Community Superheroes Club: Animal Shelter Volunteers  for little learners.  From animal shelter volunteers to teachers and firefighters; little learners will engage in fun sensory activities and role-playing as they learn about our community superheroes.  

*STEAM is an interactive program designed for new walkers, toddlers, and/or children at this development stage. Toddlers  will have many opportunities for skill building and social -emotional learning during these series of programs.  

• Discover online S.T.E.A.M storytimes and S.T.E.A.M activity guides for toddlers at nypl.org/storytime  

Space is limited to 30 children and pre-registration is required! 

• Audience: Children, Toddlers (18-36 months), Pre-schoolers (3-5 years), Families, Parents/Caregivers

How to celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day in WNC: Kitten Shower, foster pets

Ahead of National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, consider a few ways to celebrate the day.

April 30 is Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, a day to celebrate and raise awareness for America's furry friends in animal shelters. The ASPCA says that roughly 6.3 million cats and dogs enter shelters yearly and sadly, around 920,000 are euthanized.

This year, here are some options for assisting animals in need.

More: Volunteer veterinarians welcome pets of Asheville's homeless, at-risk population for free clinic

Donate to pets in need: Kitten Shower at the Asheville Humane Society

Donating to your local animal shelter is always a great option when it comes to charity, and Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is a perfect reason to lend a helping hand. One particular option in WNC comes in the form of a "Kitten Shower."

The Asheville Humane Society holds a yearly Kitten Shower in order to collect needed supplies for the kittens in their care. They have asked WNC residents (and anyone else who wants to help) to consider donating to their kitten care wish list on Amazon. Donations of crucial items like blankets, toys, soft food and playpens allow the AHS to free up more of their budget to purchase specialty supplies for kitten cases that require more intensive care.

AHS is also launching an education campaign to inform Buncombe County residents on what to do if they find a kitten or litter in the community. They remind the community that removing a kitten from its mother can be extremely harmful in the first weeks of formative development, and hope to reduce “kit-napping” with resources illustrating the signs of when a kitten/litter needs intervention, and when they should stay with their mom.

For more information on these materials, text KITTENS to 828-220-5559 or visit ashevillehumane.org/found-kittens .

More: Answer Woman: Do dog owners in Asheville have to license their pets? What's the penalty?

Volunteer to foster a shelter pet

Can't adopt? The AHS is always looking for foster parents. Even volunteering to house an animal for a few days can offer a valuable, calming break from the sounds and smells of the shelter.

Fosters must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a reliable vehicle
• Live within a 30 minute radius if fostering infant or fragile animals
• Live within a 45 minute radius if fostering an adult animal

Visit the AHS webpage to learn more about fostering.

More: NC Wildlife: No charges in Asheville 'black bear cub harassment' for selfies

Adopt a shelter pet

Of course, the most obvious answer to how to best celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day is to adopt a shelter pet.

Some shelters with adoptable animals in the WNC area include:

• Charlie's Angels Animal Rescue, Fletcher
• Asheville Humane Society/Buncombe County Animal Shelter, Asheville
• Brother Wolf Animal Rescue, Asheville
• Mountain Pet Rescue, Asheville
• Blue Ridge Humane Society, Hendersonville
• Madison County Animal Shelter, Marshall

The Asheville Humane Society holds regular reduced or waived fee events at their adoption center where you can meet and greet candidates for a new furry friend.

Check out PetPlace

PetPlace.com is also hoping Americans will celebrate by considering adding a new member to their family.

The adoption services website has over 270,000 adoptable pets listed from over 8,700 animal shelters, many of which have spent years waiting to be adopted. In honor of Adopt a Shelter Pet Day, PetPlace has created a list of 15 featured adoptable cats and dogs who have collectively waited a total of over 8,200 days to be adopted.

One of their featured "Worth the Wait" pets has already found a new home. Now, their goal is to find homes for the other 14 by the holiday on April 30. In order to meet this goal, PetPlace has waived adoption fees for all of these featured pets.

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at [email protected].

Working 4 You: Little Rock Animal Village refuses help from non-profit despite high euthanizing rates

L ITTLE ROCK, Ark. – The Little Rock Animal Village says ‘no’ to a national non-profit looking to lend a hand. Best Friends Animal Society says the shelter refused free help to cut down on the number of killings and ultimately increase adoptions.

On Tuesday, April 16, KARK 4 News covered the Little Rock City Board of Directors meeting. Our purpose wasn’t on the agenda.

One by one, voices volley back and forth like a tennis tournament.

“Best Friends will stop at nothing to take over the Little Rock Animal Village,” LRAV volunteer Joanne Colebank said.

Both sides entering a fight for what they say is right.

“Multiple life preservers have been thrown to the shelter leadership and have been refused as if they would rather drown,” Natalie Shelton with Best Friends Animal Society said.

To get the full story, we have to go back a few months to an email sent to the Little Rock City Board of Directors.

Vice-Mayor Webb, I want to thank you for your service to your city and your community. As a former elected official, I know the sacrifice it takes to hold elected office. I work for Best Friends Animal Society, a national non-profit that works to end the killing of healthy and treatable dogs and cats in shelters. We are currently working with many communities in Arkansas, and across the country, to provide support and resources. Currently, the Little Rock Animal Village is killing more dogs and cats than any other shelter in Arkansas, and we would like to help. We have made an initial offer of support, and it has not been accepted. As one of the elected officials that is responsible for government services and taxpayer dollars, I wanted to make you aware. I am attaching the initial offer of support and would welcome the opportunity to speak with you and answer any questions you may have at your convenience. Eric Swafford, Best Friends Animal Society.”

Dated January of 2024, Eric Swafford sent an offer for the Little Rock Animal Village for free training and support for staff to save more of its furry friends.

“Numbers are one thing that never lie,” Swafford, Director of Legislation and Campaign Strategy for Best Friends Animal Society, said.

Swafford says LRAV has some of the worst save rates in the state.

According to 2022 intake numbers, 43 percent of the shelter’s animals were euthanized.

“When we see numbers like that, we want to help. No more. No less,” Swafford said.

Swafford says his team was met with dead ends.

A response from Vice-Mayor Webb simply reads, “Thank you.”

A similar email was sent to City Board Director Joan Adcock. Below is her response:

“Thank you for your email and materials. I am not interested in making any changes to the Animal Village in any way, over population is a national problem and we are making some changes to really reduce the number of loose dogs in our city. Thank you.” Little Rock City Board Director Joan Adcock

“We have someone that’s serving on the board of directors that completely out of step with the voters, completely out of step with what most people think and thinks it’s ok that nearly half the dogs that enter there leave alive?” Swafford said.

A survey conducted by the non-profit shows that 14% of voters think the animal village is doing enough.

We asked for an interview with Mayor Frank Scott Jr. It was declined. Instead, the city’s spokesperson sent us this:

City leaders and representatives of Little Rock Animal Village have met with this organization multiple times, but it was clear the services proposed would not be in the best interests of the city, its residents, or the Animal Village at this time.” Aaron Sadler, Communications Director City of Little Rock

“Little Rock Animal Village could become a no-kill shelter tomorrow and to do that, all they have to do is shut the doors and stop intake, which is what best friends wants to do,” Colebank said.

Shelter volunteers say the decision boils down to a practice called “Manage Intake.” It’s a tool Best Friends has used in other local shelters which limits the number of animals coming in.

“They’re left on the streets to reproduce, they are left on the streets to get sick, they are left on the streets to get hit by cars,” Colebank said.

“It’s not saying ‘no we can’t take them’ [we ask] why are you bringing the animal in? Is it medical? Is it food that you need? Helping people out and giving them the resources to keep the pets in the home,” David Wesolowski, Grass Roots Advocacy Manager with Best Friends Animal Society, said.

Best Friends Animal Society has helped at least three different shelters in the area. As of now, Little Rock won’t be next.

“We’re going to be back; we’re going to keep pushing. All we want to do is save more animals in Little Rock. That’s all we want to do,” Wesolowski said.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.

Around the Valley: Neenah library's Volunteer of the Year named; BEAMING Inc. derby event set

Dodi gauthier recognized for volunteer work at neenah library.

The Friends of the Neenah Public Library has named Dodi Gauthier as 2023 Volunteer of the Year. She started volunteering at the library in 2019, and in 2023, she volunteered 150 hours.

Gauthier helps prepare materials for take and create kits, crafts to go, and activities for outreach and youth programming activities. She also has helped with the summer lunch program, the book sales and the monthly legal clinics.

As stated in a press release, when asked why she enjoys volunteering at the library, Gauthier said, “The library is just a beautiful, serene place and it offers incredible opportunities for learning, relaxing, and going on adventures.”

She also volunteers with ThedaCare and Reach Counseling in Neenah and fosters dogs through Sandy Paws Rescue of Fond du Lac, among many other community service positions.

For more information about volunteering at the library, call 920-886-6321 or visit www.neenahlibrary.org.

Day at the Derby event to raise funds for BEAMING Inc.

BEAMING Inc. is set to host its annual Day at the Derby event from 4 to 6 p.m. May 4 at the BEAMING Ranch, 2692 County GG, Neenah.

The Kentucky Derby will be shown on a large-screen TV. Attendees can enjoy homemade soups, hors d'oeuvres, wine, beer and nonalcoholic beverages. There will be contests for best Derby attire and best Derby hat; a “photo booth” complete with Derby hats; and raffle baskets, including a drawing for a 55-inch TV.

Tickets are $25 per person, available at givebutter.com/yTkhvm. Funds raised will benefit BEAMING Inc.

J&R rescue to celebrate Amphibian Week, May 5-11

Celebrate Amphibian Week May 5 to 11 with J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue at 976 American Drive, Suite 1, Neenah.

During the week guests can participate in educational activities to learn more about amphibians and meet the amphibians currently at the rescue.

According to a press release, amphibians face numerous threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and disease. Approximately one third of all amphibian species are in danger of extinction. Amphibians play a vital role in our ecosystem and are deserving of recognition and protection.

Throughout Amphibian Week, the public is invited to participate on social media. JRAAR will share information on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram about amphibians, their importance, the threats they face, and how you can help. Use hashtags #AmphibianWeek and #AmphibianWeek2024 to join the conversation and spread awareness.

STEAM, STEAM for Kids: S.T.E.A.M Community Superheroes Club for big learners: Animal Shelter Volunteers @Huguenot Park Library

The Huguenot Park Library presents S.T.E.A.M Community Superheroes Club: Animal Shelter Volunteers  for little learners.  From animal shelter volunteers to teachers and firefighters; little learners will engage in fun sensory activities and role-playing as they learn about our community superheroes.  

*STEAM is an interactive program designed for pre-schooler+ and/or children at this development stage. Kids will have many opportunities for skill building and social -emotional learning during these series of programs.  

• Discover online S.T.E.A.M storytimes and S.T.E.A.M activity guides for toddlers at nypl.org/storytime  

Space is limited to 15 children and pre-registration is required! 

• Audience: School Age (5-12 years), Children