Volunteer

New pictures in the gallery.

Be able to show up on Saturday mornings at the shelter with a desire to help the dogs. Spend 1-2 hours working with the dogs.

We would like volunteers to devote 2 Saturdays per month to Doggie U, but it is not a requirement to participate. Doggie U starts at 8:00 AM and we are generally done around 10:30 AM, depending on the number of volunteers and dogs.

Click here for the Release Form to Volunteer

Arrive at the shelter @ 8 - 8::15 A.M. (The shelter opens at 10 AM).
Check-in, get supplies (leash, collar, poop bag, treats, “Gone for Walk” sign,
Pick out a dog
Take the nametag off of the run and put up the “Gone for Walk” sign
Go into the run and put the collar and leash on the dog
Lead the dog outside through the side door
Walk the dog and let them relieve themselves and please dispose of it (10-20 mins).
After the dog has been adequately exercised (i.e. gotten rid of their excess energy) head to the training area for class (20-30 minutes)
After training class has ended work individually with your dog for a few minutes (10 minutes).
Lead the dog back to their run (through the side door)
Return the dog to the run (going into the run with the dog before taking the leash and collar off)
Take the “Gone for Walk” sign off the run
Go back to the conference room and:
Put the name tag into the bowl,
Wash your hands,
Re-supply
Go pick out another dog if desired.

	Make the shelter dogs more adoptable.
	Reduce the euthanasia rate for healthy, adoptable dogs.
	Reduce time spent in the shelter for healthy, adoptable dogs.
	Reduce holding costs for dogs (and thus reduce the operating costs for the shelter).
	Reduce chances that adopted dogs are returned to the shelter for behavioral issues.

	Position the Cherokee County Animal Shelter as being a leader in the humane, progressive treatment of dogs.
	Provide dogs with regular human interaction to keep them from developing shelter-based personality disorders.

Typical day at Doggie U