Whats volunteering at a shelter like?

Question

I was thinking about volunteering at the Humane Society but you have to be 16 or older and Im in the 12-15 yr. range and they have a youth volunteer program thing for that. (http://www.oregonhumane.org/volunteering/12to15.htm) Its like 20 minutes away and with gas prices these days..I dont think my parents would drive me all the time. And this fall I might take driving lessons but they are recruiting this fall.

Should I just wait for the next time or next year? :(

Answer 1

Our shelter would provide you with office work and you'd be allowed to handle cats, clean cat cages and socialize kittens.  You'd also be doing laundry almost for certain.

For us, you need to be age 16 to walk or handle dogs.  We don't have under 16 volunteers for any sort of dog kennel duty.

We can always use the help, even if you are limited until next year.

Answer 2

Hard dirty heartbreaking work that is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do as an animal lover.

Get some boots, tissues, and a good camera and go for it.

PS:  We take volunteers 14 and up but you must be 18 to walk the dogs.

EDIT:  We specify 18 for legal reasons.  Some dogs are simply too strong for a younger person.  Some youngsters don't have enough experience.  And also, God forbid, if a dog accidentally injured a child on a walk...no, we are comfortable with 18 to walk.  But in our place, you're welcome to play with dogs indoors, pet cats, groom cats, help in the office, help me with the landscaping (I do the flowers)  paint, stuff envelopes, work at the fundraisers, put out the collection cans, etc.  I hope you enjoy your experience if you decide to volunteer.  As I said, it's worth the tears you will sometimes have.

Answer 3

well i volunteer at the house rabbit society. you will have to get used to being bit/scratched/peed on, it all comes with the job. but it is extremly rewarding and definatly worth it. i already fell in love with a bunny named maxine who acts like she is mean but is really just a teddy bear. and you will have to get used to falling in love with animals and then watching them be adopted.

Answer 4

Volunteering was the best experience ever (for me), it was also the most heartbreaking. It's an eye opener, it's dirty work, it's hard, it's so so so rewarding!!! You can't save them all but you help make their stay a little nicer.

I started volunteering at a very young age (but that was years ago.....) and then they ended up hiring me. I would work weekends and summers, I loved it. I am now back with them again as a foster mom. I take in litters of puppies and care for them until they can be adopted out.

I would say go for it! It's a great experience.

Good luck & have fun.