Volunteer Program!
🐾 Join Our Volunteer Team! 🐾
Make a Difference in the Lives of Shelter Animals
Our animal shelter thrives thanks to the compassion and commitment of volunteers. By joining our team, you’ll help create a safe, clean, and loving environment for animals as they wait for their forever homes.
💚 Volunteer Tasks May Include:
- Walking dogs
- Cleaning kennels
- General shelter upkeep
- Socializing with animals to help them feel safe, happy, and loved
No experience necessary! We provide training and support — all you need is a love for animals and a willingness to help.
🕒 Volunteer Shifts
Monday–Friday:
- 1st Shift: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 2nd Shift: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
- 3rd Shift: 2:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Saturday:
- 1st Shift: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- 2nd Shift: 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
📌 Volunteer Requirements
- Must be at least 13 years old
- Parental/guardian consent required for minors
- Home pets should be up to date on vaccinations
- Volunteers must sign in and out each shift
- Must wear proper attire (see dress code below)
📋 Volunteer Rules & Guidelines
To ensure the safety of both animals and people, please follow these rules:
General Conduct:
- Treat all animals, staff, and fellow volunteers with respect and kindness
- No profanity, smoking, or drinking while on site
- Report any injuries, including scratches and bites, to staff immediately
- Never guess when answering a public question — always ask a staff member
- Be honest and reliable. If you cannot attend your shift, please notify the shelter in advance
Animal Interaction:
- Only interact with animals approved for your program
- Do not approach or handle incoming animals or those under evaluation
- If an animal appears stressed or uncomfortable, stop and alert staff
- Do not handle animals during medical procedures (vaccinations, medications, etc.)
- Alert staff about any concerns with an animal’s health or behavior
Safety & Cleanliness:
- Follow all cleaning/sanitizing protocols specific to each area
- Use chemicals properly; ask if you are unsure how to use something
- Allow time at the end of your shift for clean-up
- Volunteers are not allowed in “Staff Only” areas unless accompanied by staff
Dress Code:
- Volunteer Tags must be worn during shifts
- Bottoms must be at least knee-length
- No leggings, thin pants, sandals, or open-toed shoes
- Avoid strong perfumes or colognes
📝 Ready to Volunteer?
Everyone must fill out a volunteer waiver before volunteering. Please bring it with you the first time you come to volunteer so we have it on file or email it to our volunteer coordinator at shelter@cityofnewalbany.com!
If you’re under the age of 18, a parent or guardian must come with you with the waiver, but they do not have to stay!