Dog Caregiver and Kennel Support – Orange Level

Due to the advanced nature of this volunteer position, applicants must meet all criteria and demonstrate such on their application. For the safety of staff, volunteers, and our dogs, only applications meeting all criteria will be considered.

The MSPCA’s dog program is multifaceted with a primary goal of enriching and improving the lives of the dogs in our care. Each dog receives environmental enrichment, routine exercise, and training, all as a part of their individualized plan to give them the best chance at success. Volunteers are integral to meeting this goal.

Position Description:

Orange Level Dog Caregiver and Kennel Support volunteers and staff provide care, enrichment and training to shelter dogs. Volunteers ensure living environments remain safe, clean, and as comfortable as possible.

Due to our fluctuating dog population, the majority of some shifts may be spent cleaning kennels and assisting with other support tasks such as distributing food, dishes, and laundry, rather than walking dogs.

If you do not currently meet the qualifications to walk dogs, our Dog Caregiver and Kennel Support role may be a good place to start!

Role of a Volunteer:

Clean and disinfect enclosures which are often soiled with urine and feces
Provide appropriate food, water, toys, and bedding
Engage with Orange Level dogs in accordance with their behavior plans
Complete a variety of tasks to support the Adoption Center; tasks may include but are not limited to laundry, dishes, cutting up hot dogs and cheese, and keeping indoor and outdoor areas tidy
Participate in ongoing volunteer training as required for role
Document medical and behavior observations of dogs cared for
Receive training and feedback from staff and volunteers
Work with staff, volunteers, and clients in an empathetic and supportive manner

Volunteer Necessities:

Must be 18 years old for this role
Stay active the full duration of a shift, with variable amounts of standing, walking, bending, reaching, stooping, and kneeling
Use skills from Fear Free handling to safely interact with dogs and monitor their body language
Variable amounts of standing, walking, bending, reaching and stooping
Dog walking for up to 3 hours a day with large breed dogs who jump, shove and grab, and which require physical strength and skill to handle safely
Able to control animals on a leash weighing up to 100 lbs
Able to lift, push, pull or carry objects and/or animals weighing up to 50 lbs
Able to perform these duties in variant temperatures and elements including extreme heat, extreme cold and inclement weather
As this role requires frequent verbal and written communication, applicants must be fluent in English
Ability to use a computer without assistance and learn new programs due record animal observations
Able to remain open-minded and understanding of decisions for euthanasia that consider the animal’s physical and emotional well-being and the safety of the community

Necessary Experience:

Hands-on dog experience (family, friends, or personal dogs)
Knowledge of reward based training methods or enthusiasm to learn these methods
Knowledge of dog body language

Commitment:

At least one year – if this time is a barrier, please note in your application to discuss with the Volunteer Coordinator
One weekly 3-hour shift on the same day each week
Attend a volunteer orientation, receive on-the-job training, and complete Fear Free certification course at home

Available shifts:

8AM – 10AM: Sunday through Saturday
11AM – 1PM: Sunday through Friday
3PM – 5PM: Wednesday through Monday
Please ensure you are available for the entire shift before applying as we cannot make accommodations to this schedule. Thank you!

Apply Now!