Every year, Dorchester Paws takes in thousands of homeless, abused and neglected animals. Every animal that comes through our gates receives the care that they deserve, the medical attention that they require and all the love that we have to give.
However, our mission would be impossible without the help of our community members and volunteers.
Volunteers are a vital part of our everyday operations. They help with:
Already a Volunteer? Click here to join our Volunteer Connection Facebook Group
Want to sign up? Fill out our contact form!
More questions? Email our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@dorchesterpaws.org
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: volunteer@dorchesterpaws.org
What training do volunteers go through?
Volunteers orientation is 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. If you are unable to attend that time, we can schedule an alternative time for you.
After orientation, we do a semi-private/private first shift training. During the first shift an in-depth training will be provided.
Anyone interested in walking dogs is required to attend a dog handling session before they are permitted to walk dogs.
If you cannot attend the orientation, please email volunteer@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 volunteer@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?
Court-order community service is considered on a case-by-case basis.
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.
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!
