Animal Shelter Volunteer (Animal Care)

Animal Shelter Volunteer  (Animal Care)

• Location: Pukekohe
• Work Schedule: We are asking a minimum 4 hour commitment, 1 day a fortnight from 8am to 12pm on 1 day. We are looking for 3 volunteers to cover Friday, Saturday and Mondays.  We are looking for a minimum 6 month commitment to ensure continuity and training

He angitūtanga: The Opportunity

Are you committed to animal care and looking for a volunteer role where you can truly make a difference? We’re looking for a motivated and compassionate volunteers to join our vibrant, dedicated team at the Pukekohe Adoption Centre, providing high-quality care for adoptable dogs in our facility.

You’ll play an important role in ensuring animal welfare, supporting veterinary procedures, and promoting adoptions and responsible dog ownership. You will be part of a collaborative team that is committed to delivering world-class animal care.

Key Responsibilities

• Animal Care, Cleaning and Enrichment: Assisting with feeding routines; Providing enrichment activities and socialisation; Supporting staff with safe, supervised dog handling and monitor the well-being of dogs in the adoption centre.
• Shelter Maintenance: Helping maintain clean, comfortable kennels and shared spaces; Restocking supplies, helping with monthly tasks and all keeping areas tidy.
• Animal Handling: Safely handle dogs, applying knowledge of behaviour and body language to ensure safe handling.
• Team Support: Working alongside staff and other volunteers; Following health, safety, and animal‑care protocols; Helping with admin tasks such as updating whiteboards and keeping accurate activity logs.

He kōrero mōu: About You

The ideal candidate will have previous experience in animal care and or dog handling experience. Candidates should possess the skills to communicate confidently and effectively with the public and colleagues, and be able to demonstrate resilience when navigating the emotional aspects of adoption centre work. The role requires physical stamina to perform manual tasks such as kennel cleaning and work in an active environment. Additionally, flexibility is key, as the candidate should be willing to commit to a minimum 2x 4hr shifts per month over Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Continuity is key and preference will be given to those looking to volunteer long term.

Key Requirements

You’ll thrive in this role if you are:

• Compassionate, patient, and committed to animal welfare
• Comfortable around dogs of different sizes and temperaments
• Physically able to assist with cleaning and lifting tasks
• Confident communicating with staff, volunteers and the public
• Emotionally resilient and able to work in a shelter environment
• Reliable and able to commit to regular shifts for at least 6 months

Previous animal‑care experience is highly desirable.

Ngā āhuatanga kei a mātou: What we offer

Volunteering with us is a meaningful and rewarding experience where you’ll be supported every step of the way. We provide full training in safe animal handling, enrichment, and shelter procedures, giving you the chance to build valuable skills alongside experienced animal‑care professionals. You’ll become part of a welcoming, passionate team that truly values your contribution and creates a positive, community‑focused environment. Beyond the hands‑on experience, you’ll enjoy the personal fulfilment of helping dogs feel safe, cared for, and ready for adoption, knowing your time directly improves their wellbeing. We also recognise and appreciate our volunteers through certificates, references, and potentially invitations to events, ensuring you feel acknowledged and connected as part of our wider animal‑care whānau.

Your time, energy, and kindness can change the life of a dog waiting for a second chance. If you’re ready to make a real impact, we’d love to hear from you.