Dogs Hope is a small rescue with no paid employees.
We do welcome volunteers.

You can see some of our volunteers from this past spring on Flickr.

Requirements: love to work, over 18, provide own transportation, commitment towards dogs.

The work consists of:

Kennel chores - walking dogs, cleaning pens, cleaning crates, washing pans, feeding dogs, dog laundry and general cleaning in the kennel area (a 2000 square foot basement area). Judith, our CDL (Chief Dog Lackey) does most of the work right now, but really appreciates any help she can get.

Socializing dogs - all of the dogs crave attention, and especially treats.

Yard work - varies, most of the yard is taken up by the dog runs, but there is some yard. We try to have some landscaping, but some of the dogs have other ideas about our planters, etc.

Dog Food detail - sometimes we get donated food and sometimes we buy it. Either way, we have to go to pick it up, and unload and put it away - this may sound like a small job. We use about 200 pounds of dry food, and dozens of cans, pouches and boxes of treats every week.

Pictures for the Petfinder Site - We really need help with this. It takes two people to get a good picture of a dog. This is one of the most fun tasks.

Facilities Improvement - Dogs Hope believes in CQI (Continuous Quality Improvement). We have come a long way, but have a long way to go. Some of our recent project included putting shade tops on most of the runs. We are currently in the process of upgrading the fence from four feet, to six feet.

Our wish list includes:

      upgrading the fence to 6' all around the property (in process!)
      new gravel for the kennels and driveway
      ceiling in the kennel area

Transport - every rescue can use help with this task. Picking up dogs from shelters, dogs to the vet, etc.

Fund raising - We would welcome your ideas on this.

Meet with and counsel potential adopters; show animals to the adopters - Dogs Hope dogs are shown by appointment to approved adopters. Sometimes people want to visit with several dogs. This is a great opportunity for volunteer help.

Dog Adoption Events - Given the limited staff, we haven't been able to do this much, but it would be great to get some of the animals out to publicity events.

Networking, phone interviews, etc. - An opportunity to explore. Right now, most of our communication is done via email.

Paperwork, files - Our volunteer Rita has made a great start on getting this organized. We need to maintain it.