Small Animal Socialization

  • Small Animals are still animals that needs daily socialization and enrichment to not get bored.
  • Many small animals come in without much socialization therefore adopting out scared/hiding animals is difficult for possible adopters to know the animals' personalities. This is where this volunteer role really helps! The more in-depth information and videos we can share to the public, the quicker they will get adopted.
  • You can sit down (chair or sofa) or even lay on the blanket covered floor in the ex-pen to let the small animals get used to a human presence being around. It's fun when the rabbit hops on-top of you to explore. 
  • If you loves animals and don't have any experience, this is a good place to start! Start slow with the small animals and watch them show their quirky unique personalities and learn more about their care! 

 

 

  1. Sign up for shifts that you are available for and check in on our volunteer app for updates on # of small animals we have.
  2. Come in and speak with the Kennel Tech on duty to ask about which small animal you would like to hangout with. 
  3. You can either set up a play area to put the small animal in or sit outside of their cage giving them socialization in their safe space. 
  4. Provide them with multiple different enrichment that will help them thrive while they wait for their furever home!  
  5. Feel free to bring a book, grab some veggies (ask the Kennel Tech for some!) or brushes too! 

Please note: Vancouver Animal Services is a small shelter and we may not always have multiple small animals for you to hangout with. 

 

 

  • Great for anyone! If younger than 19 must have adult supervision with you.
  • Bonus if you have previous small animals experience but not required! 
  • Must have a calm personality as small animals are easily startled and do well with quieter talking and slower movements. 

 

  • Minimum of 1-2 hours per week for 6 months after orientation is done.
  • This can be with any volunteer roles and not specifically just one.

 

 

  • After you have sent in your application, we will review it and put you on the list for the upcoming orientation.
  • Once we have reached the # of people for the orientation, you and others will be invited to VAS to learn more information and get a tour of the shelter.
  • For your first 'Small Animal Socialization' Volunteering shift, you will be paired up with someone (Senior Volunteer or Canine Kennel Supervisor) to go over everything to ensure you understand this volunteer role. 
  • If you need more paired up volunteering shifts, you absolutely can, just ask the Canine Kennel Supervisor or a Kennel Tech on duty.

Via mobile phone/tablet: APPLICATION TO FILL OUT

Via computer/laptop: APPLICATION TO FILL OUT