Major Objective

Work closely with potential adopters and client service staff to help facilitate the adoption process. Participate in keeping the shelter environment clean, safe and as comfortable as possible for the animals in our care. To promote the successful integration of adopted animals into new homes.

Duties

• Greet clients interested in adopting
• Assist clients with filling out necessary pre-adoption paperwork
• Escort clients through adoptable animal rooms
• Answer client questions about adoption process and animals available for adoption
• Facilitate visits with adoptable animals and clients
• Ensure appropriate match between client and animal
• Educate clients about services LHS offers after adoption
• Maintain sanitary kennel environment by practicing and promoting good disease control.

Training

Assisting with adoption follow-ups

• Attend Volunteer Orientation
• Complete volunteer profile
• Interview with Client Services representative
• Attend LHS 101 training class
• Attend LHS Adoption Assistant Training and pass Animal Handling Certification
• Attend two mentor shifts
• Attend continual on the job training provided by Society staff and experienced volunteers

Commitment

Adoption Assistant Volunteers must commit to at least one two hour shift per week for a minimum of six months. Must be 18 years of age or older.

Volunteer Profile

Dedicated individual with strong desire to make good matches between clients and animals. Must use professional and safe animal handling skills. No allergies to animals or chemicals. Must be emotionally equipped to handle overcrowded conditions and long-term residents. Volunteer must be open to on the job training. An individual with the ability to multi task, and some knowledge of animal behavior preferred.

Volunteer Benefits

• Helping homeless animals find their forever homes
• Animal handling training
• Gain knowledge and exposure to different types and breeds of animals
• Knowledge of shelter procedures and operations
• Help facilitate the human animal bond
• Receive information on the latest trends in animal training and tools
• Learn information that will improve your relationship with your own companion animals.

Supervision

Direct supervision by Client Service Supervisors, Adoptions and Evaluation and Enrichment Coordinators and in-direct supervision by Client Services Staff