We rely on our community for support and treat all our volunteers like members of the family!
What volunteer opportunities are there?
Volunteers can be involved in many different duties, such as
Feel like you have other skills to offer? Contact our volunteer coordinator to discuss: sbaughman@dorchesterpaws.org
What training do volunteers go through?
Before volunteering, volunteers must attend orientation held the first Sunday of each month at 2 p.m. A general overview of our shelter and our volunteer program are given during orientation, as well as a tour of our campus.
After attending orientation, you MUST schedule your first volunteer shift with the volunteer coordinator. During the first shift, each person will receive more guided training.
Anyone interested in walking dogs is required to attend a dog handling session before they are permitted to walk dogs. This training is 2 hours.
If you cannot attend the orientation, please email sbaughman@dorchesterpaws.org.
How old do you have to be to volunteer?
Volunteers at Dorchester Paws must be at least 12 years old. Volunteers between 12 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Minors are not permitted to walk dogs, however, they can play with them in the play yards after a parent or guardian has brought the dog out.
Volunteers may not bring a child under the age of 12 with them while volunteering.
I’m not old enough to volunteer, but I really want to help. What can I do?
There are lots of things you can do to help out Dorchester Paws even if you’re too young to volunteer at the shelter!
If you have any questions, email sbaughman@dorchesterpaws.org.
I just want to come in and walk dogs.
We are so grateful for all of our volunteer dog walkers who come in to make sure the dogs are exercised!
Anyone interested in walking dogs must first attend a volunteer orientation and is REQUIRED to attend a dog handling session. We have specific protocol that must be followed for your safety and the safety of the dogs.
You must be at least 18 years old to walk a dog.
Do you accept volunteers with court-ordered community service requirements?
We do not accept volunteers who need court ordered community service hours.
Can I volunteer for community service hours for my school?
Yes, you can volunteer to get community service hours for school. However, you must follow the age requirements for volunteers.
Is there a volunteer "uniform"?
Long pants or capris are required at all times. We recommend pants with pockets so you can hold supplies! You should also wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, preferably non-slip. Hanging jewelry should not be worn.
More questions? Contact our volunteer coordinator at sbaughman@dorchesterpaws.org.
If you’re interested in volunteering at Dorchester Paws, go ahead and fill out the contact form!
Don’t just take a dog for a walk…Take your Walk for a Dog! Go to WoofTrax.com, download the app, and support Dorchester Paws every time you walk your dog. The more active walkers for Dorchester Paws, the more donations the shelter is able to receive. You can use the app while walking your own dogs, or come by Dorchester Paws to walk a shelter dog!
