Volunteer

• Volunteers are required to be 16 years old or older
• Volunteers are required to volunteer a minimum of 4 hours per month
• Volunteers are required to commit to 50 hours per year
• Volunteers are required to pay a one-time administrative fee of $30 – This includes a shirt that you will wear when volunteering
• Volunteers must wear closed-toed shoes
• Volunteers must complete the Volunteer application, and sign all release forms
• Volunteers must attend an orientation prior to any volunteering
• Volunteers must work with an experienced volunteer for 2 shifts, before volunteering on their own. We do have limited spots available for new volunteers so that they can be properly trained.

• Volunteers are required to be 16 years old or older
• Volunteers are required to volunteer a minimum of 4 hours per month
• Volunteers are required to commit to 50 hours per year
• Volunteers are required to pay a one-time administrative fee of $30 – This includes a shirt that you will wear when volunteering
• Volunteers must wear closed-toed shoes
• Volunteers must complete the Volunteer application, and sign all release forms
• Volunteers must attend an orientation prior to any volunteering
• Volunteers must work with an experienced volunteer for 2 shifts, before volunteering on their own. We do have limited spots available for new volunteers so that they can be properly trained.

• Quick reflexes and ability to use both hands simultaneously (example: open cage door while handling animal).
• Ability to walk unaided on unpaved, uneven, rugged and sometimes muddy and slippery areas (when walking dogs outdoors).
• Ability to bend and squat in order to leash and pick up an animal.
  
• Ability to stand for significant periods of time while walking dogs, assisting the public with visits, or cleaning cages/kennels.
• Average vision to move safely around the building, to be able to observe animal body language without difficulty and to be able to read notes.
• Average sense of smell and touch in order to assess condition of animals, and to note signs of illness or injury.
• Ability to hear if an animal is growling or making sounds indicating fear or pain.
• Ability to speak and effectively communicate verbally.
• Ability to maneuver well in tight spaces and react and move quickly to prevent dogs or cats from escaping.
• Ability to handle and restrain animals with extreme caution and care.
• Ability to deal with strong and unpleasant odors, fleas, feces and possible wounds or injuries to animals in our care.
• Ability to cope with a loud environment due to animal noises.
• Average strength to assist with lifting animals or items.

• Ability to understand, retain and follow instructions and procedures.
• The ability to judge an animal’s reaction and to change voice to a soft or strong, authoritative tone to calm a dog or to give commands.
• Must be aware of surroundings when working with the animals. Can remain calm with animals who are upset; behave sensitively and confidently; show good judgment and act appropriately in these situations.
• Once trained, must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, and recognize limitations in knowledge and abilities, and ask for help when needed.
• Must have the ability to work as a team member with other volunteers and take direction from SCSPCA Shift Leaders and Staff.

If you would like your volunteer hours to count towards community service, you must meet these requirements:

• You must be at least 18 to do community service with us.
• You must have at least 40 hours of court mandated community service.
• You must submit a copy of your offense to volunteer@secondchancespca.org.