Volunteer FAQ

What volunteer opportunities are available?

Click here to be directed to the Volunteer Opportunities page.

What skills are needed?

There are no particular skills needed to become a PAWS/LA volunteer, although it is helpful to be comfortable around animals. Depending on the assignment, we sometimes look for people who can do grooming, lift pet food, answer phones, or do data entry. We will always do our best to match you up with volunteer opportunities that fit your skills and interests.

Can children or teenagers volunteer?

For most of our volunteer opportunities that require contact with clients and their animals outside of PAWS/LA’s office, such as pet food delivery, dog walking and in-home cat care, you must be 18 years of age or accompanied by an parent or guardian who is a registered volunteer at all times.

Can I complete my community service hours for school at PAWS/LA?

Since so many of our volunteer opportunities are based on the needs of our clients and as such we cannot guarantee meeting the hour requirement, we recommend that students organize a pet toy and treat drive at their school, church or community center to get donations of pet supplies that we normally cannot offer our clients. Additionally, students can do pet food deliveries or bag food in the food bank, but they must be accompanied by a parent or guardian unless over 16 years of age.

Do you have opportunities for large groups?

Since our space is limited, there are rarely opportunities for large groups to volunteer at PAWS/LA. However, fundraising and special events are great opportunities for your group to work together. We typically have two large fundraising events each year.

What kind of time commitment is required?

There is no time commitment required to become a PAWS/LA volunteer. Some of our volunteers are here every week filling a shift at the front desk or the food bank. Other volunteers wait until there is a need for in their area for things such as vet transportation or dog walking.

Are your volunteer opportunities flexible?

Although most of the volunteer opportunities do take place during the work week, there are assignments that can be completed on Saturdays or evenings such as pet food delivery, vet transport and community outreach.