Volunteer

Volunteers of the month

February’s volunteer of the month is Barb O’Rear!

Barb started volunteering for Second Chance in 2015 but her work got very busy so she had to put it aside until she retired. Barb started back volunteering in September of 2023.  She initially heard about Second Chance via a fundraising event..

Barb helps take the dogs in and out, cleans cages, does laundry and spends time petting and loving on the dogs.

Barb was raised in Florida but has been in Texas for 43 years. She is a retired Project Manager and she spends her time playing tennis and golf and spending time with her 2 grandsons (ages 6 and 4).  On her first day of volunteering she met Pearl and immediately fell in love.  Since Barb and her husband are avid golfers Pearl became Mulligan AKA Mully – as everybody deserves a second try.  Mully is an absolute delight and she loves her sister Aspen (another rescue dog).

While Barb thoroughly enjoys petting and loving on the animals, her favorite thing is to see them go to their forever homes.  She is thankful to play whatever part she can so these deserving animals can get a good home.  

“I truly believe our animals understand that their luck has changed and show it by providing their new family with a lifetime of love and devotion.  Rescues are the best!!!” 

We truly could not run our shelter without our amazing and compassionate volunteers!

Volunteering with Second Chance SPCA is a rewarding experience but is also a demanding role and should be taken seriously. To ensure the safety of our staff, volunteers and animals, volunteers must meet the qualifications listed below.

  • 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 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.

They help and give attention to the animals.

You may do that after you are finished with your volunteering work!

  • Please note: You must complete the orientation and sign the form at the shelter before you sign up for a time.
    If you have any questions regarding the volunteer application, please email us at volunteer@secondchancespca.org or call us at 972-424-0077.