Volunteering at an animal shelter can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Not only do you get to interact with adorable pets, but you also get to contribute to a great cause by helping animals in need. If you're interested in volunteering at the Nebraska Humane Society (NHS), you may wonder how old you must be to get involved. The answer is that it depends on the type of volunteer work you want to do. The NHS offers several volunteer opportunities, each with its age requirements and restrictions.
One option for younger volunteers is the Junior Volunteer program. This program is open to children between 10 and 15 who want to gain experience working with animals and learn more about animal welfare. As a Junior Volunteer, you'll be able to help with various tasks around the shelter, such as cleaning cages, walking dogs, and socializing with cats. However, there are some restrictions on the types of tasks Junior Volunteers can perform. For example, they cannot handle animals or assist with adoptions during medical procedures. To become a Junior Volunteer, you must attend a training session with a parent or guardian. Once you've completed the training, you can sign up for shifts at the shelter and start making a difference in the lives of animals in need. If you're over 18, you'll be eligible to participate in all the volunteer programs offered by the NHS. These programs include: Dog Walking: As a dog walker, you'll be responsible for exercising and socializing with dogs at the shelter. This is an important part of their daily routine and helps keep them healthy and happy while they wait for their forever homes. Cat Socializing: This program allows volunteers to spend time with cats and kittens, providing them with much-needed attention and affection. You'll help groom the cats, play with them, and give them lots of love and care. Adoption Counseling: If you have great communication skills and a passion for finding homes for animals in need, adoption counselling may be the perfect volunteer opportunity. In this role, you'll talk to potential adopters about the pets available at the shelter and help them find the right match for their lifestyle and needs. Special Events: The NHS hosts various events throughout the year, such as fundraisers, adoption events, and community outreach programs. Volunteers are needed to help with everything from set-up and tear-down to working booths and interacting with attendees. No matter what type of volunteer work you're interested in, there are a few requirements that all NHS volunteers must meet. These include: Completing a Volunteer Application: The first step in becoming a volunteer is to fill out an application on the NHS website. This will give the shelter staff better understanding of your interests, skills, and availability. Attending Orientation: All new volunteers must attend an orientation session covering important information about the shelter's policies and procedures, safety guidelines and tips for working with animals. Completing Training: Depending on the volunteer program you choose, you may need to complete additional training sessions before you can start working directly with animals. Commitment: The NHS asks that volunteers commit to at least six months of service, with a regular schedule of at least one shift per week. Volunteering at the Nebraska Humane Society is a great way to make a difference in the lives of needy animals. Whether you're a young animal lover looking to gain experience or an adult who wants to give back to the community, volunteer opportunities are available to suit your interests and skills. By following the age requirements and completing the necessary training and orientation, you can play a valuable role in caring for animals and helping them find homes forever. So why not consider volunteering at the NHS today and start making a difference in the lives of pets and people?
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