Volunteer
Join the Putnam County Animal Shelter Volunteer Team
Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of shelter pets? We’re looking for dedicated and reliable volunteers to help us care for our furry friends. Whether you can lend a hand in the morning with cleaning or brighten our pets’ day with enrichment activities in the afternoon, we have a variety of volunteer opportunities waiting for you!
Areas Where We Need the Most Help:
- Playgroups: Supervise our energetic dogs as they stretch their legs and have some fun!
- Cattery: Help our staff keep our kitties comfortable by assisting with cleaning, refilling food and water, and ensuring they’re happy.
- Kitten Nursery: Care for orphaned kittens and nursing moms who need extra attention.
- Photography: Capture our pets’ unique personalities to help them find their forever homes.
Join Our Dog Enrichment Team
Large-breed dogs are full of energy and joy, but they also require special care to manage the stress that comes with kennel life. These big, bouncy pups need regular exercise, socialization with other dogs, and enriching activities to keep their minds sharp. That’s where our dog enrichment team, staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers, comes in to enhance the quality of care for Putnam County’s long-term residents.
Our goal is to provide personalized care and enrichment for all types of dogs—friendly, fearful, or sometimes reactive—during their stay with us. By doing so, we aim to increase the adoptability of our large breed dogs and help reduce their length of stay at the shelter. The success of this team also relies on playgroups, a specialized care activity that you might enjoy being a part of!
If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of large dogs, consider joining our dog enrichment team today!
Animal Foster Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does fostering a pet involve?
Fostering a pet involves temporarily caring for an animal in your home until they are adopted. This includes providing food, shelter, and love, as well as any necessary training or socialization. You may also need to take the pet to vet appointments or adoption events.
2. How long will I be expected to foster a pet?
The length of time you’ll foster a pet can vary. It could be anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the pet’s needs and how long it takes for them to find a permanent home. The shelter or rescue organization will work with you to find a timeframe that fits your situation.
3. Do I need any special training or experience to foster a pet?
While prior experience with pets is helpful, it’s not always necessary. Many shelters provide guidance, resources, and support to help you care for your foster pet. Some may even offer training sessions to ensure you’re comfortable with the responsibilities.
4. Will fostering a pet cost me anything?
Most shelters or rescue organizations cover the costs associated with fostering, including food, supplies, and veterinary care. However, it’s a good idea to confirm what expenses will be covered before you start fostering, as policies can vary.
5. What if I become too attached to my foster pet?
It’s natural to form a bond with your foster pet, and some fosters choose to adopt their foster animals, a process often called a “foster fail.” However, fostering is a wonderful way to help multiple animals find their forever homes. The organization will support you in transitioning the pet to their new family when the time comes.