RSPCA Victoria

Animal Care Assistant Volunteers contribute to the daily operations and functionality of our Metro shelters, including Admissions, Cattery, Kennels, Grooming, Adoptions & Clinic, by providing the animals in the care of the RSPCA Victoria with a comfortable and enriching environment. Animal Care Assistant Volunteers help to maintain a high standard of hygiene practices for the animals and provide daily socialisation and enrichment, and prepare the animals for their forever home.

To be successful in this role, the volunteer will possess the following necessary skills and attributes:

• General fitness, physical strength and the ability to handle loads up to 10kg and to handle untrained and/or boisterous dogs
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and complete tasks in a timely manner
• Attention to detail and the ability to follow oral and written instructions carefully
• Confidence handling dogs, cats and other small animals and an ability to read animal behaviour
• Ability to be self-sufficient and work well autonomously within a team environment
• Preparedness to work in a noisy environment
• Flexibility and willingness to assist across site
• Previous experience handling livestock, particularly horses, is required for Barn/Livestock roles

The Animal Care Assistant Volunteer may be responsible for the following activities:

• Cleaning and disinfecting animal enclosures / pens / cages and equipment in the adoptions and quarantine areas including but not limited to the removal of faeces, cleaning, hosing and disinfecting
• Preparation and distribution of food and refilling water bowls
• Changing of bedding and the restocking of bedding ready for use
• Socialising, enrichment, exercise and/or grooming of animals
• Distribution / making toys and other environmental enrichment tools
• Observing animal health and behaviour and reporting any concerns to staff
• General cleaning and maintenance of the area including cleaning, sweeping, mopping, laundry, restocking supplies, cleaning toys and rubbish removal
• Other tasks as agreed