Volunteering at a shelter - AmericaNowNews.com

Volunteering at a shelter

Owning a pet can be a big responsibility. Most people don't know what they're in for. So why not volunteer at your local animal shelter and find out?  

"According to the ASPCA, there are over 5,000 animal shelters across the country," says Pet Pro Luciano Aguilar. "Many rely on volunteers. And if you've been looking for some first-hand experience with a dog or a cat, then volunteering might be just the way to get it."

There's always plenty to do at an animal shelter, and there are several areas where your skills can be put to good use.

"Here at SEACCA we're always very busy, including our volunteers," says Denise Woodside, an outreach coordinator at the South East Area Animal Control Authority in California. "You'll see them at the front office, assisting in the vet department and also helping with our special events that we have here to promote adoptions."

First impressions are important, so if you're a people person and good with office work then you can volunteer at the front desk, answering phones and greeting the public.

"If you're going to be a volunteer in the front office here at SEACCA, we need to see a big smile, ready to assist someone find a new dog or maybe console someone whose looking for a dog that they've lost," explains Woodside.

For a more hands-on animal experience, you can assist in the adoption process by helping people find the kind of dog or cat they're looking for. If you're good at event planning, you might enjoy helping with one of the many adoption events that the shelter will put on.

"If your schedule doesn't allow any volunteer time, then think about fostering one of the shelter animals in your own home," adds Luciano. "The best way to find out what it's like to own a dog or cat is to live with one!"

Copyright 2012 America Now. All rights reserved.

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