CONSIDER JOINING OUR VOLUNTEER TEAM!

So much to do . . . every single day of the year! HSJC volunteers contribute to the care of the shelter’s animals in a variety of ways. We value each and every person and the gift they give through their time and talent! Some of the opportunities available to volunteers are listed below. However, because we are fortunate to have so many dedicated volunteers, there are not always positions available. The Volunteer Coordinator keeps applications for six months and will contact applicants as positions become available. Applications may be obtained at the shelter or by clicking on the following link to submit online.

Volunteers must be 14 years old or older.

14 & 15 Years Old

Must volunteer with a parent/guardian, and only for specific roles

16 & 17 Years Old

May volunteer solo with parent/guardian consent

18 Years and Older

May volunteer in any capacity

We ask volunteers for a long-term commitment to volunteering and cannot always accommodate those that wish to complete short-term service requirements.

Morning – Cats

Mornings are a very busy time at the shelter with lots of cleaning to be done and lots of hungry mouths to feed. Volunteers help tremendously by feeding cats and kittens, cleaning our three community cat rooms, and of course giving lots of love and attention to the cats and kittens housed within these rooms.

Morning – Dogs

Volunteers work under the direction of a staff member each morning cleaning and sanitizing our dog kennels and setting up each kennel with freshly cleaned blankets and toys. Some physical labor is involved, and rubber boots are recommended. Volunteers are also encouraged to take dogs for leashed walks around the property or play with them in one of our fenced-in yards. Volunteers must be 16 years old to work with the dogs.

Morning – Small Animals

These volunteers help care for our littlest critters here at the shelter. This often includes rabbits, guinea pigs, rats, and birds. Our small animals need their cages cleaned or tidied, fresh food (plus salad!) and water, and lots of attention as they adjust to shelter life.

Morning – Laundry/Dishes/Cat Socialization

Volunteers help with the very important job of helping keep our shelter supplies clean. These volunteers spend their morning bouncing between loads of laundry, cleaning dishes, and taking plenty of breaks to socialize the kitties in our community cat rooms.

Afternoon – Laundry/Dishes/Cat Care

These volunteers make our adoptable cats very happy by feeding them their dinner! They also help shelter-wide by keeping up with washing laundry, cleaning dirty dishes, and providing even more love and attention to the cats once their bellies are full.

Afternoon – Dogs

The dogs are always ready for another walk or romp around in a play area! Volunteers make sure our pups are getting plenty of exercise and mental stimulation while they wait for their perfect family to come along. Afternoon dog volunteers also assist our Dog Staff with other tasks like dog baths, tidying up kennels, or whatever else needs to get done.

PetSmart Satellite Adoption Center

Volunteers in Dane County also support the HSJC by helping take care of the cats we bring to PetSmart West in Madison. Besides cleaning the cat cages, the socialization they provide while they cuddle and play with adoptable cats make a world of difference for these homeless kitties.

Grounds & Landscaping

Do you love being outside and beautifying outdoor spaces? We are always looking for more volunteers willing to help us with general lawn upkeep including mowing the lawn, weeding, and trimming branches along our walking trail.

Special Events

Not interested or able to help with shelter roles? No problem! We have multiple special events every month. Volunteers assist our Fundraising and Outreach Coordinator at these events in a variety of ways, from checking people in and handling payments, walking/holding an animal, serving food, and pretty much anything under the sun! These volunteers get to have lots of fun attending the event, while also being part of the team making it a success!