Volunteer

Welcome

We would like to thank you for your interest in volunteering here at Santa Ynez Valley Humane Society & D.A.W.G. Without our volunteers, organizations like us could not survive. The volunteers here perform an essential part of the daily operations. We have many areas in which you can help us. Whether it is with our animals, or helping us at our special events, you are integral part of the SYV Humane/DAWG team! As a volunteer, you will play a key role in supporting animals and our community; we simply could not do this work without you!

Ways You Can Help

Cat Volunteers – Friends of Felines
Volunteers assist with cat socialization, cleaning, enrichment, and housekeeping. Help our cats and kittens feel loved, tidy the cat room, and help adoptive families find the perfect cat.

Dog Volunteers – Canine Companions
Assist with dog socialization, enrichment, training, walking, grooming, and cleaning. Your efforts help dogs feel loved and comfortable, whether they’re puppies or senior dogs.

Canine Enrichment
Help engage dogs with mental stimulation, puzzles, games, and safe scents to improve their quality of life and prepare them for a forever home.

Canine Socialization
Support our dogs by helping them get comfortable with new people, other dogs, and new environments. Socialization is key to reducing stress and easing their transition to home life.

Dog Walking
Help our dogs stay healthy by walking them. Regular walks reduce stress, improve behavior, and provide much-needed exercise.

Canine Training
Assist with basic training like leash walking, obedience, and calm behavior, helping dogs become better suited for life in a home.

Behind the Scenes
We need help with chores like cleaning crates, washing dishes, laundry, yard work, and maintaining a clean and organized shelter environment.

Special Events
We welcome volunteers to help with fundraising events, including setup, breakdown, animal handling, and promotion. Your support helps us reach the community and make each event a success!

Public Relations & Community Outreach
Volunteers help with adoption events, fundraising, cleaning, laundry, yard work, and maintenance. We need friendly, outgoing individuals to assist with promoting and managing our monthly adoption, fundraising, and educational events. Help spread the word about the animals at SYV Humane & DAWG, assist with event setup, or promote our cause.

Get involved and make a difference today!

Volunteer Requirements

  • Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age, or accompanied by an parent or guardian. Volunteers 16-18 years of age, must have an parent or guardian sign off to volunteer.
  • Volunteers must read & comprehend detailed policy and protocol information and follow shelter rules.
  • Volunteers cannot volunteer without first completing a Volunteer Orientation scheduled with our Volunteer Coordinator
  • Most volunteer roles require to stand and/or walk for up to three hours; lift and carry up to 20 pounds; reach and lift; possess vision abilities including close vision, distance vision and depth perception; and speak to customers, employees and other volunteers appropriately and respectfully.
  • No commitment necessary

Onboarding Process

  • Fill out an application above
  • A staff member will contact you to schedule a volunteer orientation
  • Attend orientation & training
  • Begin volunteering
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