Got love to spare? Volunteers are the heart of our organization, and we have plenty of opportunities for anyone willing to lend a helping hand. The time and care our volunteers give truly empower Lakeshore PAWS to save the lives of homeless dogs. Even a small amount of your time can make a big difference in the life of a pet in need. Thank you for your interest in joining our incredible volunteer team!
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Dog Walking
From daily walks to fun field trips, we’re always looking for helping hands to give our pups the love and enrichment they deserve.
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Socializing
Whether it’s a game of fetch, some one-on-one time in our enrichment rooms, or helping supervise playgroups, every moment you spend with them helps build trust and confidence.
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Grooming
Regular baths, brushing, and nail trims not only keep them healthy — they also help each pup feel loved, cared for, and ready to make a great first impression!
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Cleaning & Maintenance
From laundry and cleaning to lawn care, electrical work, plumbing, and more— every skill makes a difference! Whatever your talents may be, we’re grateful for helping hands that keep our rescue running smoothly.
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Adoption Assistance
With so many dogs looking for loving homes, we rely on dedicated volunteers to help match them with the perfect families. Your time and care can make all the difference in creating lifelong bonds!
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Fundraising & Events
As a donation-based rescue, we depend on the creativity and passion of our community. We're always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help plan fundraisers and bring energy to our adoption events — every effort helps us save more lives!
Becoming a Volunteer
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Orientation
- Begin by filling out a volunteer application online here. We will be in contact shortly after to schedule you for orientation.
• The first session will cover some basics and include a tour of the adoption center.
• Potential volunteers will then return for a second session to learn more information about dog body language and walk dogs with an experienced volunteer.
• The course is then wrapped up with a third visit to the center during office hours to be entered into the volunteer registration computer. Staff and veteran volunteers will be on hand to answer any questions and help with your first official volunteer period.
- Begin by filling out a volunteer application online here. We will be in contact shortly after to schedule you for orientation.
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Level 1 Volunteering
- Once you’ve completed orientation, you’re welcome to volunteer 365 days a year between 6:00 AM and 8:00 PM — giving you the flexibility to help whenever it fits your schedule.
- All new volunteers begin as Level 1 volunteers until 80 hours of service have been completed. As a Level 1 volunteer, you’ll be able to walk our GREEN level dogs, who are typically easier to handle and a great way to build confidence and experience.
- There’s never a shortage of ways to make a difference! Level 1 volunteers play a huge role in keeping the shelter running smoothly by helping with organizing donations, laundry, vacuuming, cleaning kennels, washing dishes, yard clean-up (aka poo patrol), and so much more. Every task directly impacts the comfort and care of our animals.
- After completing 20 hours of onsite volunteer time, you’ll also have the opportunity to take GREEN dogs offsite for field trips, attend adoption events, and assist with vet visits and transportation.
- No matter where you start, every hour you give helps change a life.
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Level 2 Volunteering
- Level 2 volunteers are those who have completed 80 hours of service and an additional class focused on dog behavior.
- At this level, you’ll be able to take on a more hands-on role in the adoption process — assisting with adoption appointments and introducing dogs to potential families to help make the perfect match.
- Level 2 volunteers also have the opportunity to shadow experienced team members who specialize in dog to dog evaluations, playgroups, and resident dog meet-and-greets. This advanced involvement allows you to deepen your understanding of canine behavior while playing a key role in helping dogs find the right homes.
Requirements
- Volunteers between the age of 13 and 15 must attend orientation with a parent or legal guardian and must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian each time they volunteer. Volunteers age 16 to 17 must have a release of liability signed by parents/legal guardian, who must also attend orientation.
• Able to provide eight hours of service per month for a minimum six month period.
• Able to squat, bend, twist, lift or stand for long periods when working directly with the animals.
• Possess strong customer service skills including writing and clear verbal communications as all volunteer positions work directly with the public, staff and other volunteers.
• For safety reasons, volunteers who wish to work directly with the animals must be able to listen to kennel commands and verbally communicate to public, staff and volunteers.
• Attend the Volunteer Orientation.
• NOTE: At this time, we do not allow those who need to complete community service.
Next Orientation Dates:
March 11th PART 1 6-7PM
March 14th PART 2 3-4PM
