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Pet Volunteer information

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$8

$19

$33

How much do pet volunteer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for pet volunteer in the United States is $19.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Can you do volunteer work at PetSmart?

Pet Volunteer roles typically involve assisting with animal care and adoption events, but they are usually organized through animal shelters or rescue organizations rather than retail stores like PetSmart. Some PetSmart locations partner with local rescue groups to host adoption events, where volunteers may assist, but direct volunteer opportunities at PetSmart stores are limited. It's best to contact your local PetSmart or nearby animal rescue organizations for specific volunteer opportunities related to pet care and adoption support.

Can I volunteer with animals without experience?

Pet volunteer roles often do not require prior experience, as training is usually provided on the job. Volunteers should have a genuine interest in animals, patience, and the ability to follow instructions, making these positions accessible to beginners. Basic knowledge of animal care and a willingness to learn can be sufficient to start volunteering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Pet Volunteer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Pet Volunteer, you need basic animal care knowledge, reliability, and a genuine passion for animal welfare, often supported by prior volunteer experience or relevant training. Familiarity with shelter management systems and protocols for handling different animal species is often required. Patience, strong communication, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team are crucial soft skills. These qualities ensure the safety and well-being of animals while supporting efficient shelter operations and positive adopter experiences.

What are some common challenges Pet Volunteers face when working with animals at shelters?

Pet Volunteers often encounter challenges such as building trust with shy or previously mistreated animals, adapting to varying animal temperaments, and maintaining emotional resilience in sometimes stressful or heartbreaking situations. Volunteers may also be responsible for tasks like cleaning enclosures, feeding, and assisting with basic training or socialization. Teamwork is essential, as volunteers frequently collaborate with shelter staff and other volunteers to ensure each animal receives proper care and attention. Over time, these experiences can be deeply rewarding and contribute to valuable skills for those interested in animal care careers.

Where can I volunteer to work with animals near me?

Pet volunteers can find opportunities at local animal shelters, rescue organizations, and humane societies. These organizations often seek volunteers to assist with animal care, socialization, and adoption events, and may require basic training or orientation before starting.

What is the difference between Pet Volunteer vs Animal Shelter Assistant?

Pet VolunteerAnimal Shelter Assistant
Typically involves volunteering without formal paid employmentOften a paid or paid-internship role within an animal shelter
Requires basic knowledge of animal care, compassion, and communication skillsRequires similar skills, sometimes with additional training or certifications
Work environment includes shelters, rescue events, or community outreachPrimarily works within animal shelters or rescue facilities
Employer: Nonprofit organizations, rescue groups, community programsEmployers: Animal shelters, rescue organizations, veterinary clinics

Pet Volunteers and Animal Shelter Assistants both support animal welfare, but Pet Volunteers typically volunteer without pay and focus on community engagement, while Animal Shelter Assistants are often paid staff working directly in shelters. Both roles require compassion and basic animal care knowledge, making them closely related in the animal care industry.

What volunteering can you do with your dog?

Pet volunteers can involve their dogs in activities such as visiting nursing homes, assisting with therapy programs, or participating in community events to provide comfort and companionship. Training and socialization are important to ensure the dog is well-behaved and suitable for public interactions, and some programs may require specific certifications or temperament assessments.

What are pet volunteers?

Pet volunteers are individuals who donate their time and effort to assist animals in shelters, rescues, or community programs. Their tasks can include feeding, exercising, socializing, and caring for animals, as well as helping with adoption events and administrative work. Pet volunteers play a crucial role in improving the well-being of animals and increasing their chances of finding permanent homes. No formal qualifications are usually required, but a love for animals and commitment to their care are essential.
What cities are hiring for Pet Volunteer jobs? Cities with the most Pet Volunteer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Pet jobs? The most popular types of Pet jobs are:
What states have the most Pet Volunteer jobs? States with the most job openings for Pet Volunteer jobs include:
Pet Volunteer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Pet Volunteer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,804 per year, or $19.1 per hour.
Pet Therapy Hospice Volunteer

Pet Therapy Hospice Volunteer

Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care

Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Patient Support with a pet companion volunteers are part of the interdisciplinary team and provide support in various settings including the home, in-patient units, and skilled nursing facilities
Helping to care for our patients and families is a critical role played by our volunteers. These positions are some of the most challenging and rewarding volunteer opportunities at Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care. Volunteers in Patient Care and Family Support provide in-home services to patients currently being served by Rainbow Hospice.
Responsibilities may include:
  • Assists the patient/family by providing friendly visits with a certified pet.
  • Offers emotional support, companionship and supportive listening to patient/family, or essential services i.e. errands, shopping, light housekeeping, etc.
  • Serves as an integral member of the Hospice interdisciplinary team.
  • Assist team and provides input to the plan of care as appropriate.
  • Documents volunteer time and patient visit activity in an accurate, timely and objective manner.
  • Maintains open communication, reporting regularly to the volunteer coordinator.
  • Participates in bereavement follow-up with families, as appropriate.
  • Maintains confidentiality at all times.
  • Adheres to Rainbow Hospice policies and procedures.
  • Completes the mandatory annual education.
  • Meets all health requirements set by Rainbow Hospice.
  • Participates in volunteer support and educational in-services.
  • Assists in training of new volunteers as appropriate.

Skills & Requirements
Day(s) Needed: Weekdays, Evenings or Weekends
Time(s) Needed: Preferably in 3-4 hour time blocks, flexible schedules based on volunteer availability
Because of the direct patient and family interaction, all of these positions require Patient Care and Family Support volunteers to go through specialized Patient Care Training. This process teaches you about hospice and terminal illness and helps prepare volunteers to interact with and support our patients and families.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Successful adjustment to personal losses and no personal loss within past 12 months.
  • Successful completion of volunteer training program.
  • Clearance from appropriate health screenings and background check.
  • Agree to mandatory policy statements.
  • Minimum commitment of 1 year of service; at least 3-4 hours per week.
  • Supportive of hospice concept, and willing to serve others in a volunteer capacity.
  • Comfortable working with families with different cultural and religious values.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Independent means of transportation.
  • Previous volunteer experience preferred.
  • Pet owner with successful completion of pet therapy certificate accepted from a nationally recognized organization such as or
  • Proof of pet liability insurance (added to a homeowners policy and is very inexpensive).
  • Veterinary vaccination records.

Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care
Rainbow Hospice is a nonprofit organization serving terminally ill patients and their families in Chicago and surrounding counties. Rainbow Hospice enables people to live with dignity and hope while coping with loss and the end of life. Rainbow Hospice offers extensive bereavement services, including the Good Mourning program for bereaved children, teens and their families as well as a Community Speakers Bureau, the Rainbow Hospice LIFE Institute for Learning and the award winning Rainbow Hospice Ark, an Inpatient Unit.

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