Location:  Lamar Animal Shelter

Employment Type: Volunteer (Non-Compensated)

Reports To: Shelter Manager

Primary Objective of the Position: 

The City of Lamar Animal Shelter is committed to providing compassionate care, protection, and placement for the animals in our community. Our volunteers play a vital role in promoting the humane treatment of animals, responsible pet ownership, and community education.  We strongly believe in and abide by the Five Freedoms of Animal Welfare, as set forth by the Asilomar Accords.

1. Freedom – from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom – from discomfort
3. Freedom – from pain, injury, or disease
4. Freedom – to express normal behavior
5. Freedom – from fear and distress

Essential Functions and Duties

The Animal Shelter Volunteer supports the daily operations of the City’s Animal Shelter by assisting staff with the care, socialization, and adoption of animals. Volunteers contribute to a clean, safe, and compassionate environment for all shelter animals while promoting responsible pet ownership and positive community engagement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with feeding, watering, and exercising animals under staff supervision.
• Clean kennels, cages, and animal areas to maintain sanitary and safe conditions.
• Wash food and water dishes, bedding, and toys as needed.
• Provide socialization and basic enrichment for animals through walking, play, and gentle handling.
• Assist with grooming, bathing, or brushing animals as directed.
• Support adoption activities and community events (e.g., meet-and-greets, pet fairs).
• Greet and assist visitors in a courteous and professional manner.
• Report any signs of illness, injury, or behavioral concern to shelter staff promptly.
• Follow all safety procedures, including proper use of protective equipment and animal handling protocols.
• Maintain confidentiality and respect for the City’s property, staff, and animals at all times.

Physical Demands

Work is performed primarily at the Lamar Animal Shelter and outdoor areas. May require bending, lifting (up to 40 lbs), standing for extended periods, and working in varying weather conditions. Personal protective equipment (gloves, boots, etc.) provided as appropriate.

Education, Training and Experience Requirements:

• Must be at least 16 years of age (volunteers under 18 require parental consent).
• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions and work cooperatively with staff and other volunteers.
• Comfortable working around animals of varying sizes, breeds, and temperaments.
• Willingness to perform cleaning tasks and work in environments with potential exposure to animal allergens, noise, and odors.
• Dependable, compassionate, and committed to animal welfare.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience handling animals in a shelter, veterinary, or rescue environment.
• Customer service experience or public interaction skills.
• Basic understanding of animal behavior, body language, and safety procedures.

Volunteer Commitment

Volunteers are expected to complete an orientation and training session prior to beginning service. Scheduling is flexible and based on shelter needs. All volunteers must sign a Volunteer Agreement and Release of Liability before participating.  Must be able to pass a background check and drug test.