How to become a volunteer
Volunteers
are very important people at the Dumb Friends League. As a private, non-profit
organization,
we
rely on the assistance of caring and hard-working volunteers in all of our programs.
In a year's time, the League receives more than 25,000 lost, unwanted and abused
pets, and helps tens of thousands of people and animals throughout the Denver
metro area, and beyond.
To volunteer, you must be:
- At least sixteen years old (some positions require individuals to be at least 18 years of age)
- Willing to make a six-month commitment of approximately three hours per week
Our main shelter is located in Denver and our Buddy Center is in Castle Rock. If you'd like to volunteer at either location, pleaseclick here to fill out our online application. You may also request a hard copy by calling (303) 751-5772, Ext. 1933.
If your availability
and interests coincide with available volunteer positions, we'll contact you
to 
schedule you for a volunteer orientation.
Each volunteer attends a two-and-a-half-hour orientation where we provide an overview of our services, philosophies, an introduction to our volunteer program and a tour of our Quebec Shelter. Additionally, volunteers interview one-on-one with a League representative to discuss personal goals and to determine the most suitable volunteer assignment.
To learn about safety procedures, pet adoptions, animal behavior and other important information about the League's many programs, volunteers also participate in an all-day training class.
Why volunteer?
- Develop new skills while exploring the field of animal care
- Meet new people with similar interests
- Acquire work experience for future endeavors
- Receive support and guidance from professional staff
- Most importantly, volunteering will make life brighter for the pets in our care, and better for the people and animals in our community.
You can help
Volunteers perform a wide variety of jobs throughout
the League. Here are just a few of them:
Kennel Technician Assistant
Exercise, socialize and feed animals, as well as clean kennels in Adoptions, our Lost & Found Center and Surgery.
Pet Grooming Specialist
Brush and bathe pets available for adoption, as needed. This really enhances any pet's chance at being adopted! Supervision is provided.
Adoption Information Specialist
Greet shelter visitors and answer questions about our Adoption Program.
Humane Education Instructor
Provide age-specific presentations to children and adults about animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. Free presentations are made available to schools, community organizations and tour groups.
Receiving Assistant
Assist staff in our Pet Receiving Area where pet owners relinquish their animals to the League.
Animal Behavior Department Volunteer
Through our free Helpline and/or Dog Obedience Classes, help individuals learn about animal behavior and to communicate effectively with their pets. Extensive training is required for this position.
Offsite Adoptions & Outreach Specialist
Assist staff at various sites throughout the community, including feeding and caring for pets available for adoption. Also, provide information about the League and responsible pet care to the public.
"Homes with Hearts" Foster Parent
Bring special-needs animals in to you home to nurse them back to health and/or tend to these pets at our facilities.
Meow Mobile Administration Assistant
Provide support to the Meow Mobile program, which provides spay/neuter surgeries and vaccinations on cats in select communities, by assisting with facilitating phone calls, E-mails and other clerical duties regarding appointments and follow-up with patrons. Volunteers may help at our Quebec St. shelter in Denver or in the field with the Meow Mobile. Mostly weekdays, shifts can vary. Spanish language skills a plus.
Meow Mobile Animal Care Technician
Assist with loading & unloading the Meow Mobile vehicle. Check in patrons dropping off cats for spay and neuter services. Assist coordinator in performing pre and post surgery duties. Volunteers may help at our Quebec St. shelter in Denver or in the field with the Meow Mobile.This is usually a full day volunteer position or split shift. This is a good learning opportunity for veterinary technicians, interns or those interested in animal care. Spanish language skills a plus.
Advanced Volunteer Opportunities
Promotions are also available to anyone who has volunteered for a minimum of three months at the League and has been recommended by his or her supervisor. Assistant Adoption Counselor and Health Care Aide are among these advanced volunteer positions.