• Volunteer

  • Volunteer SPOTLIGHT

    If you've been to the shelter on a Wednesday afternoon, chances are you've probably met Debbie - but probably just in passing, as she comes in and out with large dogs she's walking. Debbie has been volunteering at SCSPCA since September of 2015, and just six months after joining us, she adopted her dog Bri here too! Debbie's favorite thing about volunteering is getting love from the dogs - it makes her feel loved, she says. Well, Debbie, the dogs love you and we certainly do too!

  • Volunteer Opportunities

    Second Chance SPCA operates a no-kill animal shelter and is a volunteer-based organization. Your generous donation of time makes a real difference in the lives of both our animals and our human team. Our small, but strong organization brings people with diverse backgrounds together in the common cause of reducing the numbers of adoptable animals that are euthanized in city shelters every day. As a member of our volunteer team, you will see and feel the difference that your support makes possible. 

    Our Volunteer hours are:
    Monday: 12:30pm-6pm
    Tuesday-Friday: 12:30pm-7pm 
    Sat-Sun: 12pm to 5pm

    Beginning volunteers:
    Our volunteers all begin in our adoption center and assist with daily tasks, such as:

    • Socializing dogs and cats
    • Greeting our guests
    • Loving on the animals
    • Taking dogs to/from kennels and yards
    • Cleaning up accidents
    • Assist with feeding the animals
    • Assist with bathing dogs
    • “Scooping” the outdoor kennels

     
    Experienced volunteers:
    Other volunteer opportunities are available for more experienced volunteers:

    • Greet potential adopters
    • Monitoring our animal rooms
    • Walking dogs
    • Training and socializing dogs
    • Assisting kennel staff with cleaning cages/handling animals/grooming

     

    You must complete volunteer training before signing up for volunteer hours. Before you fill out the Volunteer Application form, read the Volunteer requirements below. After you submit your application, our Director of Volunteers will be in contact with you to discuss training/orientation.

    This form is only for volunteers interesting in becoming involved with Second Chance SCPA. We do allow volunteering for school hours, but the requirements listed below must be met. If you are under 18, please read through the entire packet with your parent and have them sign the required documents. Contact Second Chance if you’re interested in Community Service hours.

    • Volunteer requirements:

      • 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 $25 – 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.

      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.

    • Essential Physical Capabilities:

      • 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.

    • Essential Mental Capabilities:

      • 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.

    • 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.