Volunteers are essential to the success of ODAS. They provide additional manpower to help us accomplish daily chores as well as enrich the lives of the animals in our care. Appropriate attire for volunteering:  long pants, sensible closed-toed shoes and a T-shirt. Jewelry should be kept to a minimum.  Although you can stop by during business hours to volunteer, it's best to call ahead to ensure there are volunteer opportunities for you on a particular day.  If we are extremely busy or already have volunteers on site, we may not be able to accommodate additional volunteers--so appointments for volunteering are strongly encouraged.  Appointments can also be made to volunteer outside of regular business hours.  If you have a group wanting to volunteer, we do require appointments for groups in order to better manage the volunteers.  

 

Volunteer Positions:

 

Dog Walker

Walking is essential for the dogs to experience human interaction and get exercise.  We typically want a dog-walking session to last 15-20 minutes depending on the dog. 

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Volunteers will be instructed by staff regarding rules and practices.  Dogs should be on leash at all times.  There are exercise pens that can be utilized with permission and with proper instruction from staff wherein the dogs can be off leash (one dog per pen).  Dogs should never be brought nose-to-nose and should be walked according to the path and direction outlined by staff to ensure dogs do not meet unexpectedly.  All attention should be placed on the dog.  Cell phones should never be used while interacting with a dog.  Always be prepared and pick up after each dog (bags provided). 

 

Cat Lover

Spend quality time in the cat room interacting with cats. Engage them in interactive play with toys.  Staff will provide instruction on policies for safety and cleanliness when visiting the cat room.  

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Shelter Helper

This involves basic cleaning tasks in the public building only.  Tasks may include washing dishes, sweeping, mopping, basic cleaning, project cleaning, etc.  You will be instructed by a staff member on how to complete any assigned tasks.

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Event Assistant

Volunteers may be asked to help with events in Johnson County.  Tasks could include set-up, break-down, animal handling support and interaction with the public.  These volunteers will be instructed by staff as to their duties for each event.

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Note: Volunteers should never speak officially on behalf of ODAS in any public venue, including social media.  Negative representation of ODAS or Johnson County will be cause for immediate dismissal.  A current Volunteer Application and Waiver must be completed and on file, and a photo ID is required.