Dog Walker
Reduce dogs’ stress and provide exercise by taking them out of their kennels and either walking them outside or playing with them in an enclosed area. Assist Animal Care staff by watering and maintaining a clean kennel environment for the dogs.
This is the position for you if YOU:
- Are at least 12 years of age and have an adult partner to accompany you if younger than 16.
- Enjoy the company of dogs.
- Are physically able to handle big, strong, exuberant dogs.
- Are patient and willing to follow written procedures.
- Don’t mind a noisy (barking dogs), sometimes stinky work environment.
- Don’t mind scooping poop and has a sense of humor.
What can you expect from your role as a Volunteer DOG WALKER?
Duties include:
- Taking dogs outside to designated areas and exercise them. Pick up and dispose of any poop deposited during the walk. Return animal to kennel. Record observations about the dog’s health, temperament and behavior. Kennel Assistant Responsibilities which include: Checking your assigned area to see that all dogs in the kennel have clean water and clean kennels or assisting with laundry and dishes as assigned.
Your benefits:
- Opportunity to work directly with dogs and to make their stay at the shelter more comfortable and pleasant, and less stressful. Learn about the behind-the-scenes operation of an animal shelter. Good exercise. Flexible hours. A chance to work with fun people – staff and other volunteers - who share your love of dogs.
Your value to the Humane Society of the Pikes Peak Region:
- Reduction of stress for the dogs and provided exercise make them happier and improve their chances of being adopted. Increased confidence or improved manners also helps to attract potential adopters. Some dogs are housebroken and by taking them for walks, we reduce their stress and uncomfortableness.
I’m in! What’s next?
Training:
- Attend a Volunteer Information Night.
- Attend a Volunteer Orientation.
- Read, study and complete a quiz on our Dog Walking Procedures. This information will be given to you prior to training.
- Attend 1 Dog Walking class, consisting of "hands-on" training.
- Shadow an Advanced Dog Walker. Your first dog walking shift, you will be mentored by a volunteer.
Commitment: At least one shift per week, same day and time each week.
Supervision: Indirect supervision from the Volunteer Services Staff and Animal Care Staff.
Available volunteer shifts include: Any two-hour period between 8:30am – 11:00am, 11:00am-1:00pm or 3pm – 5:00pm, Monday - Sunday
