PAWS: Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteering Opportunities at PAWS

Kennel Attendant

Position Description: PAWS has the ability to house up to 45 dogs, and kennel attendants help care and comfort the dogs in the kennels. Kennel attendants provide customer service to the public and assist them by answering questions about the adoption process as well as about particular animals. They are also active in the Good Dog Program that teaches the dogs basic obedience commands with the goal of a more stimulating shelter stay, and an easier transition into their new home. Volunteers must have excellent communication and customer service skills, and must practice safe animal handling per PAWS protocols. This position requires a tolerance for loud noise and strong smells. This is a high animal contact position. Volunteers will be interacting with dogs of various sizes, shapes, breeds and manners. Duties include: assisting the public, socializing and comforting the dogs; practicing and participating in the PAWS Good Dog Program; monitoring behavior and medical needs on daily log; preparing and giving dog treats; scooping feces; assisting with laundry and dishes; and preparing food and feeding dogs. Select volunteers who have been at PAWS six months have the opportunity to become Advanced Training Volunteers (ATV). ATV’s work with some of our more challenging dogs on training, behavior modification and stress reduction. Additional training is required for ATV’s.

Dates Available: year round

Shifts: Mid-Afternoon shifts – Monday-Friday, 12-3 pm and 1-4 pm; Saturday-Sunday, 11 am-2 pm. Evening shifts – Monday-Wednesday, 4-6:30 pm; Thursday-Friday, 4-7 pm; Saturday-Sunday- 2-5 pm. Volunteers are scheduled for the same shift each week. There is a minimum 3-month commitment.

Time Commitment: Weekly 3 hour shift; 3 months minimum commitment

Location: PAWS Companion Animal Shelter, Lynnwood

Training Required: All volunteers must attend a four hour volunteer orientation before starting their position. The orientation covers each of the volunteer positions at the PAWS Companion Animal Shelter in detail, and explains the overall objectives of PAWS as an organization. This orientation is held two times per month at the shelter in Lynnwood. PAWS trains all volunteers, no previous experience is necessary. Training sessions are 1-2 hours, set up at time of orientation. Additional training is offered, but not mandatory.

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