Volunteering
Our volunteer program is full. Thank you for your interest and check back periodically over the spring and summer to see when we will be putting on a new orientation session.
Not everyone can be a pet owner, but everyone can be a pet lover. Vancouver Animal Control always needs energetic, caring volunteers who want to spend time with dogs and help take care of them.
Since Vancouver Animal Control is a pro-adoption facility, it’s home to many animals who are awaiting adoption, but until then, they’d appreciate any time and affection you could spare. You can come in and play with the dogs, take them for walks and help with general care. Even if you are a pet owner, but have some time to spare for some other animals, you’re more than welcome to come in and volunteer.
And if you get to know a dog through regular visits, don't panic one day if your favorite dog is no longer there -- that means it has found a home.
How do I become a volunteer?
When we require new volunteers we will post a new orientation session and contact information after the 25th of each month. Sessions fill up fast so please check back if we were unable to get you into the next session. There is a maximum of 15 people per session so please call early. If you are unable to attend a session, please call to cancel your spot so someone else is able to attend. You will be shown the basics of non-forceful dog handling, from putting on a collar to teaching the dogs better leash manners.
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When can I walk the dogs?
Once you have been through the orientation session, you can drop in:
Volunteering Hours
Monday to Friday: 10 am to 6 pm
Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 am - 12 pm
Statutory Holidays: Closed
You can walk the dog of your choice. Our goal is to have enough volunteers to give each animal three walks a day.
We need hardy souls with good rain gear who will show up regularly, rain or shine. You can drop in as often as you like, but we hope you will come and visit the dogs at least once a week.
What else can I help with?
Anyone who’d prefer not to walk a dog, can still enjoy the company of one. You can just take them out for a run in the yards and play with them. You can give some of the fluffier ones a good brushing, trim overgrown nails or bathe animals.
We sometimes have puppies that just need people to hang out and play with so that they can be socialized.
To find out more or if you have any questions about our volunteer opportunities, call 3-1-1 or outside Vancouver call 604.873.7000 or Katie Ernst at 604.871.6885.
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