How to Volunteer To Work With Animals

Obtaining employment in a field related to animals usually people to have formal experience with animals. To get that experience, you need to volunteer. Consider your career goals and contact organizations you have an interest in.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A love of animals
• Willing to work for free
• Willing to be around and clean up animal waste
• A cheerful personality
• Internet access to search and contact companies
• Phone book

1. Volunteer at animal sanctuaries
   
   There are animal sanctuaries all over the country that are always in need of volunteers, especially larger animal sanctuaries. The sanctuary I volunteer with is Gress Mountain Ranch, located in Orefield, PA. The job is physical but extremely rewarding. The animals I work with are therapy animals who help troubled youth and adults. Their website is provided below under the resources section.
   
   Do a search for animal sanctuaries in your area on the internet or your phone book.

2. Volunteer at an animal society
   
   There is at least one animal society in any given county, but there are usually more. SPCA and animal shelters need help but I recommend no kill shelters. It will break your heart if you see an animal who is set to be euthanized and you'll end up with your own animal sanctuary at home because you'll adopt them all. at least at a no kill shelter you know they won't be killed for being unwanted.

3. Volunteer to dog sit or Work as a dog sitter
   
   Dog sitting is a good first venture into starting your own business. The service is in demand and competition is usually not harsh. If you don't have any dog sitting experience, you can volunteer for one or two people you are close to or charge a nominal fee. That way you will have references and can begin to work for yourself or for a professional dog sitting company.

4. Volunteer to be a dog walker
   
   Dog walkers are needed at animal clinics, animal hospitals, and veterinary offices with kennels. Offer your sick or disabled neighbor to walk his/her dog for them. You can do this as a volunteer or start your own business.
   
   If you do volunteer to do it for a neighbor, you might be able to get contacts through that neighbor for people who could use your services and you will have a reference for the future.
   
   You also get the added benefit of getting more exercise.

5. Volunteer or apply for work as a groomer
   
   Doing some volunteer work at first will give you some experience but companies like Petco don't require it. They provide training programs and advancement opportunities. The pay is minimal but the work can be rewarding and lead to opening up your own business one day. Or you might find that you enjoy it as a part time job in addition to your full time income.

6. Volunteer to pet sit
   
   This service is usually combined with dog walking but not always. It is another good idea for a start up company with a small investment. Or it can be a fun part time job. It's great for people with disabilities or students who need time to study and can't handle a highly demanding job.

Tips & Warnings

• Start at a sanctuary or kennel to get some experience and to see if you will enjoy the work.
• Read about careers related to animals.
• Working with animals can sometimes be dangerous and you may be hurt or have to deal with unpleasant smells and sights.
• Have a strong stomach and confidence in dealing with the animals.
• Always ask for help when in doubt.
• Always take precautions so you and others are safe

Resources

• Gress Mountain Ranch

[PABechko]

on 10/6/2008 Very good tips. We have 'dog holders' at our local farmers market.

[Meri]

on 8/8/2008 These are great tips for getting experience working with animals.