You can make a DIFFERENCE!
The involvement of our volunteers is essential to the Eastern Townships SPA. The support and dedication of our volunteers contributes directly to the pursuit of our mission and the well-being of the animals!
Requirements for volunteering at the SPA de l’Estrie
Be 18 years of age or older
Be available for a commitment of at least 4 months
Be able to offer a minimum of 3 hours of volunteer work every 2 weeks
Be able to follow a fixed, consistent schedule
Be reachable by e-mail
Please note that all volunteer opportunities are on an individual basis, and we therefore do not accept groups or families.
Available positions
The volunteer is responsible for helping the animal caretaker with the maintenance of the equipment used by the animals. They must also feed the rodents at the end of the day and ensure their well-being.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Wash dishes
- Wash and fold clothes and blankets
- Wash pet carriers
- Feed herbs to rodents and ensure their well-being at the end of the day
Requirements and skills needed
- Operation of dishwasher, washer, dryer and hydrofoamer
- Ability to follow clear instructions
- Autonomy
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Punctuality and thoroughness
- Ability to stand for a few hours
Schedule
3-hour session on a specific day, every week or every two weeks
The volunteer is responsible for enriching the dogs’ environment through outings, walks, play, petting and attention. They must respect safety and biosecurity guidelines at all times, and participate in the ongoing education program offered by the SPA de l’Estrie.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Take the dogs out to the dog parks so they can relieve themselves and be stimulated in a positive way ( playing, running, etc.), while respecting the determined schedule
- Ensure the animal’s well-being during outings, particularly in terms of positive training methods
- Pick up dog excrement during outings and empty the garbage can when full
- Keep outdoor areas clean
- Respect the instructions posted on the enclosures
- Return all equipment used during your session to its proper place
- Notify the animal care professional of any behavior, events or particular observations concerning a dog
- Record observations in each animal’s logbook
- Help the animal care worker with tasks when required (e.g., folding blankets or washing dishes)
Requirements and skills needed
- Good physical condition
- Excellent self-control to effectively manage all types of temperament
- Ability to interact with all dogs
- Capacity to follow clear instructions
- Autonomy
- Facility to work as part of a team
- Punctuality and diligence
- Attendance at all training courses required for the position
* This position is not recommended for people with physical limitations: joint pain, muscle weakness, back problems, etc. Check with your health care professional to determine your ability to safely perform all tasks assigned to this position.
Schedule
- 3-hour sessions (8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.)
- Mandatory refresher training on occasion
The volunteer is responsible for assisting the animal health technicians in administering medication to the animals.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Administer medication (in liquid or tablet form) to various animals
- Record health follow-ups in the appropriate register
- Ensure that the dosage is compatible with the animal
Requirements and skills needed
- College diploma (DEC) in Animal Health Techniques or working towards it
- Observation skills
- Ability to follow clear instructions
- Autonomy
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Punctuality and thoroughness
- Ability to stand for several hours
Schedule
2-hour morning shift starting at 8:30 a.m. or 2-hour evening shift starting at 3 p.m.
The adoption agent is responsible for helping animals find responsible, caring homes.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Become familiar with all animals available for adoption
- Direct clients to animals compatible with their lifestyle and ensure the ideal match
- Advise new adopters on welcoming the animal into its new home
When customers are absent :
- Maintain the adoption room: sweep if necessary, wipe down the sink, etc.
- Take cats out of their cages and play with them
- Work with more fearful cats
- Brush the cats
Requirements and skills needed
- Excellent customer service
- General knowledge of different animal species and breeds
- Comfortable working with felines
- Understanding of animal behavior
- Knowledge of how to care for a cat
- Ability to manage several files at once
- Strong critical and analytical skills
- Ability to work with a multidisciplinary team
- Ability to adapt to change
- Organizational skills
- Open-mindedness, empathy and kindness
Schedule
Mornings from 9:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and/or afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The volunteer is responsible for unpacking orders received during the week.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Store incoming items in appropriate locations
- Perform food bag rotation
- Fill food shelves at reception desk
- Record delivered items in the appropriate area
Requirements and skills needed
- Ability to lift heavy loads
- Ability to climb ladders
- Ability to follow clear instructions
- Autonomy
- Ability to work alone
- Punctuality and thoroughness
Schedule
3-hour session every Wednesday
The volunteer is responsible for transporting animals to other shelters. He/she will use his/her vehicle when transportation does not require a lot of space.
Tasks and responsibilities
- Transport various animals to other resources
- Transmit medication and necessary information to the new resource
Requirements and skills needed
- Driver’s license and no violations of the road safety code
- Ability to drive a minivan-sized vehicle
- Knowledge of English
- Comfortable working with different species of animals
- Punctuality
- Ability to follow instructions
Schedule
Variable, according to needs
I want to be involved!