[Universal]

I'm not sure if this is the correct place to post this thread, so forgive me if I made a mistake.

Anyway, I decided to volunteer at a local animal shelter. I emailed the couple in charge of the shelter, and was very excited when they emailed me back allowing me to volunteer. But I have a few questions that keep on rolling around in my mind. Any answers would be much appreciated .

What should I be expecting from the dogs that I'll be asked to look after for? (which would include cleaning out their kennel, walking them, playing with them, and perhaps grooming). Could their be aggressive behaviour? And if there is, what would be the best way for me to handle this? And also, I'm worried about timid behaviour? What is the best way to have a dog trust me? You see, while I do have dogs on my own, I have never experienced either aggressiveness or timidness in either of them. So having a dog that has these problems would be a challenge for me.

And if anyone has volunteered in a shelter before, or knows someone that has, can they tell me what to expect exactly? For instance, did you/they enjoy volunteering? Would recommend it to a friend?

Oh, and I should mention, this shelter has both dogs and cats. And in the email the shelter sent me they indicated I would probably end up working with dogs. But would it be wise for me to learn about how to care for cats? As I know nothing at all about cats.

[cigwyllt]

I'm sure they will tell you everything you need to know as and when it crops up. Suggestions on dealing with aggression etc will vary from person to person and dog to dog. Just go along prepared to learn and enjoy it. I'm sure you'll have a great time and lots to tell us about every time!

[Universal]

Originally Posted by cigwyllt

I'm sure they will tell you everything you need to know as and when it crops up. Suggestions on dealing with aggression etc will vary from person to person and dog to dog. Just go along prepared to learn and enjoy it. I'm sure you'll have a great time and lots to tell us about every time!

Thanks for your reply .

Though nervous, I am really looking forward to the opportunity. And I'm especially excited to have the chance to be with the dogs!

[angiesample]

Hey!! I volunteer at the humane society and i love it!! We have both dogs and cats. My job is to bascially play with the dogs. As well as keep the kennels cleaned. Some dogs are a handful but u learn ways to be the dominate one. for instance, do NOT open the kennel until the dog is calm and sitting. This helps with them getting adopted too. A dog that is jumping all over the place isnt as likely to get adopted. So when playing with the dogs work on basic commands: sit, stay, heel, and down. Plus it keeps there brains working which is soo needed since they spend most of there time in a cage.

Good luck and keep us updated!!

[emumbert1]

We have a very active Humane Society shelter here. I've volunteered for special projects, but I have a bad back and am too "stove up' to be cleaning kennels. There are lot's of jobs and your orientation meeting should help you decide what's best for you. If you have some trepidation about aggressive dogs, let them know.

I have been a greeter, dog transporter and public relations helper. I loved writing ads for the local paper and taking photos.

You see...lot's of different jobs for dog lovers.

Have fun. You'll never regret it.

[lil mutt]

That's surely a wonderful experience for you. Hope I can make some time and effort to be a volunteer too someday on my free school days..