International Volunteer Day takes place on December 5 every year, when organizations worldwide recognize the efforts of volunteers who help them fulfill their missions and operate effectively. In addition, on this day, organizations remind their communities of the importance of volunteering and how the generous gift of time makes the world a better place. Among the nonprofits that benefit the most from volunteers are pet shelters, considering their 24/7 need for pet care and continuous demand for food and supplies. Let’s explore how volunteers help pet shelters and why they are needed every single day.
Companionship
Pets living in shelters lack the important companionship that pets in homes are showered with every day. Much like humans, pets need to feel loved, cared for, and that they are not alone. This individual connection is something that volunteers provide to pets every day at animal shelters across the country. They spend one-on-one time with them to provide affection, fun, and attention. Volunteers may visit with pets in a confined space within the shelter, take dogs for walks outside around the shelter, and run or play with them in shelter yards.
Care
Unfortunately, many pets are surrendered to shelters simply because their owner can no longer adequately care for them. Reasons range from not being able to afford them to having physical limitations that prevent them from providing quality care. Shelter volunteers ensure each animal under the care of the shelter is cared for with the utmost respect and dignity. They brush their hair, make sure pet cages and kennels are clean and sanitary, and ensure they always have fresh water. They also make sure they get much-needed exercise through walks and playtime.
Feeding
Feeding pets is another role that shelter volunteers play, ensuring a consistent feeding schedule is maintained and that all pets are eating and drinking normally. When it comes to feeding, however, it’s not only the shelter volunteers who make it happen. A large percentage of food made available to pets in shelters comes from donations by local community members and businesses. As nonprofit organizations, it’s critical that donations are received to help pets maintain a healthy diet. Those generous donations are received by volunteers, who organize the supply and feed the animals.
Office Assistance
Pet shelter volunteers also play a critical role in the operations of the facility, specifically aiding in paperwork, organizing, photocopying, and some parts of the adoption process. Volunteers may also help connect community members with pets for visits and answer questions. Since volunteers get to know the pets in the shelter quite well, they are an invaluable resource for prospective pet owners who want to know the demeanor and history of a particular animal.
Ahead of this upcoming International Volunteer Day, reach out to your local animal shelters about their volunteer policies and how you can help. There are never too many volunteers to help these animals live their best lives while awaiting their forever homes. Learn more about pet shelter volunteering to make sure you are an ideal fit for the job.
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