Frequently Asked Questions

Q:How do I become a volunteer?

A:First complete a Volunteer Application and submit it to the Volunteer Coordinator via mail, e-mail, or by dropping it off at NEAS.  Once your application has been reviewed you will be invited to attend an Orientation meeting where you will learn from staff and current volunteers what it is like to volunteer with us.  There will be a brief one-on-one interview at the end of this meeting.  Accepted applicants will then be invited back to attend a training session after which they will begin their regular volunteering schedule.

Q: What do volunteers do at Northeast Animal Shelter?

A: Most volunteers help out in the Kennel or in the Office.  A typical shift as a Kennel Volunteer includes: cleaning dog and cat cages, assisting with feeding cats and dogs, helping with laundry, walking dogs and socializing cats.  Office Volunteers help with: greeting the public, answering the phones, monitoring cat and kitten rooms, assisting with light filing and possible data entry or other special projects.  Other volunteer positions include Foster Care, Animal Transport, Humane Education and Senior Visitation.  Please see the volunteer information and application packet for further details.

Q: How old do I have to be to volunteer?

A: We ask that volunteers be at least 16 years of age, but may make exceptions for folks as young as 14.  If you are under the age of 14, please have your parents contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (978) 745-9888 x305 to find out what other ways you can help our animal friends.

Q: Can I come in just to play with or socialize the animals?

A: There is usually time during each shift to socialize a kitten or play with a puppy or dog, but not for the entire time!  Taking care of all our animals is a LOT of work and it wouldn’t be fair for only one or two animals to receive all the attention.  In order to help the dogs and cats find the loving homes they need and deserve, we must provide for their well-being first, and that means cleaning up after them before we have time to play!  If you are interested only in socializing the animals, you are welcome to come visit them on your own time.  However, please note that only staff and volunteers are allowed to handle the animals unless you are considering someone for adoption.

Q: How much of a commitment will I be required to make?

A: Volunteers are asked to commit to at least one shift per week for at least six months at a time.  Shifts are about 3.5 hours long and are available every day of the week between 7:30am and 9:30pm weekdays, 7:30am and 6:00pm Saturday and Sunday.  If you are unable to make a long-term commitment or have an unpredictable schedule, please see below.  Other options are available and may be discussed with the Volunteer Coordinator.

Q:My schedule is fairly unpredictable and I can’t guarantee that I can be somewhere every week. Can I still help out?

A: Yes!  While our preference is for those who have regular availability, we have several volunteers who come in every other week or once a month.  Some volunteers come in from 7-8am or on their lunch breaks just to help walk the dogs.  We also have “Special Event” volunteers who help out with one-time projects or events, and others sign up to help transport animals when needed or give occasional presentations to children through our Humane Education program.  Whatever your availability might be, there is a volunteer program to fit your schedule and interests.  Look over the Volunteer Job Descriptions in the information and application packet or speak with the Volunteer Coordinator for more information.