How to Get Started

Volunteers are essential to our lifesaving mission. Some of the volunteer activities you can help with include: dog walking, socializing dogs & cats, enrichment activities, fostering, photography, and special events. Junior volunteers are welcome to join us, but must be at least 12 years old (see details below under Volunteer Requirements). Volunteer opportunities are constantly changing as we grow and develop new programs; but what doesn't change is your impact.

In order for you to get the most out of your experience at Manatee County Animal Welfare (MCAW), there are a few requirements we ask volunteers to meet.

Volunteer Requirements

• Submit an online application which includes signing a volunteer agreement and a Release and Waiver of Liability form.
• Attend an in-person orientation and tour of facility and pick up your volunteer wristband.
• Be able to work independently and meet the volunteer requirements

• Attend additional training sessions as required by MCAW.
• Treat all animals with kindness and concern for their welfare.
• Represent yourself and MCAW in a professional manner and treat clients, staff, and other volunteers with respect.
• Junior volunteers (minimum age 12 years) can volunteer after completing all registration requirements and the orientation tour.

Special Volunteer Opportunities: Medical Volunteer Position

MCAW is searching for volunteers to assist the Veterinary Services department by providing general observation and care of animals undergoing and recovering from surgery. Interested volunteers must be at least 18 years of age, must either be in veterinary school or have experience in the veterinary field, reliable, understand Manatee County Animal Welfare's mission and goals, be flexible, and have a great love and compassion for animals.

Position Description:

Compassionate care is the top priority for all animals. Major responsibilities include: ensuring surgical equipment is clean, orderly, and ready for use; monitoring pets in recovery stage from surgery; changing blankets and sheets as needed; and other duties as needed to ensure that every animal receives appropriate and timely medical treatment.

Requirements:

• Must be able to assist in recovering animals following surgery.
• Must be able to lift and safely restrain small to large animals as needed for medical procedures.
• Must be comfortable observing sedated animals, and those undergoing surgery and post-surgery recovery.
• Must be able to follow verbal directions.
• Must be willing to help clean cages, floors, laundry etc. to ensure flow and proper sanitation between patients. Other duties may include assisted feeding, surgery instrument sanitation, and general assistance in the medical area.

All selected candidates will have an opportunity to interview with our Medical Director. Candidates selected to move forward will spend a day shadowing in Vet Services prior to being accepted for the position. The Vet Services Surgical Volunteer must adhere to strict confidentiality guidelines.

Fostering Opportunities

Foster parents are volunteers that provide temporary care for animals who aren't quite ready for adoption due to age, health or behavior. By opening your home, you are freeing up space for other animals and providing individualized attention that certain animals require. It is a crucial aspect of MCAW that directly impacts our life saving mission. The necessary supplies are provided by MCAW, so all you need is time and love to give! If you have room in your home and heart and are interested in becoming a foster, please email [email protected]. 

For additional information about the program, please contact 941-742-5933 ext. 8314.

Our biggest foster needs right now:

• large breed dogs
• kittens
• animals in need of socialization
• animals currently being treated for illness or injury

You will be required to provide:

• appropriate housing for each pet
• transportation
• socialization/training
• love