Volunteer Information
Applications
Please click on the application below that applies.
- Adult Volunteer
- Junior Volunteer (12-17 years)
Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the Rohnert Park Animal Shelter! We appreciate your offer to help. We have a small staff and rely heavily on volunteers to help give the animals the quality of care that we feel is important. We depend on our volunteers and expect them to take their job commitment seriously. Because of the training involved we ask a minimum commitment of 1 shift per week, for at least six months (preferably on a regular schedule). There are several areas that you can volunteer in. Please read the following descriptions and see if an area matches your skills and interests.
Junior Volunteers and all College Volunteers (for first semester)
We know you love animals and are eager to help out. We appreciate your enthusiasm but need to make it clear from the beginning that if you volunteer here, it will be work! We rely heavily on volunteers to help give the animals the quality of care that we feel is important. We depend on our volunteers and expect them to take their job commitment seriously. Because of the training involved we ask a minimum commitment of 2 morning shifts each month for at least 6 months. If you are doing volunteer work as part of a school requirement you must still meet our minimum commitment and you must keep track of your own hours to get credit for your time here.
Kennel Assistants – 9:00–12:00 p.m.
Keeping the animals clean and healthy is our first priority. Volunteers assist in the day-to-day care of our animals including feeding and cleaning all the runs and cages; keeping up with the endless loads of laundry; washing dishes; restocking supplies and all the little details that keep a shelter running smoothly. As time permits (remember, cleaning is the priority), the animals are also taken out for walks, bathed and groomed, and given that extra attention that is so important for the mental well-being of a confined animal. Socializing the animals is the reward when all the work is done! We are here seven days a week; you can do your hours on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays and any day during school breaks. You must sign up in advance on the calendar for your shifts.
Adult Volunteers
Animal Care Assistants
We'd love your help too! See description above.
Front Office Assistants
When we are open to the public - Wednesdays-Sundays starting at 1:00 p.m. - our front office the place for you. is a busy place! Answer phones, make copies, assist the public, and eventually learn to do adoptions. If you are a people person this may be
Animal Socializing
Cat Cuddler - Being caged is frustrating and boring. Help keep our cats sane and social by giving them the extra attention they need. Includes grooming, nail trimming, and lots of loving.
Dog Walkers - Our dogs need regular exercise and socialization, not to mention a little training. Most are very exuberant and require patience and firmness. A three-session training is provided but some dog experience is preferred.
Bunny Huggers - Small companion animals need daily handling to remain friendly and social. Also includes grooming, nail trimming, and giving treats.
Foster Care
Bring orphaned, young kittens, or moms with litters, into your home so they have a clean, quiet place to grow up. Animals are returned to the shelter for adoption when they are ready (yes, you have to give them back!). Usually is a 2-8 week commitment per litter. Here’s a politically correct way to have kittens!
For more information about foster care, please click here.
Adoption outreach
Promote adoptions and public awareness by bringing animals to off-site locations, usually weekends or evenings. Need office training for paperwork and must be a people person!
Vet assistant
Assist with spay/neuter surgeries and health checks. Make up medications, prepare surgical packs and more. Great experience for future vets and techs.
Other jobs
Have a particular skill to share? Photography? Web Savvy? Data entry? Carpentry? Sewing? Graphic design? Let’s find a way to use your skills!
Fundraising/Special Events
The Animal Shelter League is a volunteer non-profit group that supports the shelter through fundraising and special community events. If working inside the shelter is not for you, here is a great way to still help the animals!
For more information about the Animal Shelter League, please click here.
If you are interested in further investigating the volunteer opportunities we have available at this time, please plan on attending the next orientation (call the Shelter at 584-1582 for the next available session). The orientation is one hour long. You will also be required to attend a training session in your area of interest. If these positions do not meet your needs or interests at this time, we understand, and thank you for thinking of us.