Animal Volunteer Roles

We are looking for vollenteers to take care of our schools animals. 

At the weekends and school holidays ,times that fit around you! 

What is required is feeding ,providing fresh water and cleaning out the enclosures. 

Do you want to help us end the abuse of animals raised for food? In this flexible role, you will create change for animals by attending in-person events and taking campaign actions from home at a time that works for you. 

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. This flexible and rewarding role is perfect for those looking to make a difference for farmed animals but without the strict time commitment. There are no set hours, you can get involved whenever you are free. Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

As a Campaign Volunteer, you will help us drive change for farmed animals by: 

• Joining us for in-person events locally, and nationally (this may include peaceful protests, public outreach and informal meet-ups). All relevant expenses will be paid.

• Taking part in campaign actions from home including writing emails and letters, making phone calls and social media actions

• Connecting with your MP to campaign for change

• And more! 

Gain fantastic transferable experience and build your advocacy skills in this flexible and rewarding role. You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us. You will also have access to exclusive training opportunities to further your animal advocacy development, as well as a full onboarding process to get you started.

Our team is based all over the UK, so we’re set up to provide you with a great experience no matter where you’re based. We cover expenses to join us at in-person events, so you can be based anywhere and still get involved. No prior experience is required, we’ll give you everything you need. There is no set time commitment, but roughly 2-4 hours a month is average for this role, depending on how much you choose to get involved with.

Everything you do in support of our campaigns will help to reduce the suffering of animals who are on factory farms right now. Want to get involved? Apply today!

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, don’t hesitate to contact us - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

Do you envisage a world free from animal suffering? As a Grassroots Organiser, you will help make this vision a reality by organising regular campaign events and actions in your local area. All materials provided and relevant expenses paid.

Why join us? We exist to end the abuse of animals raised for food. We work specifically on corporate focused campaigns demanding better welfare practices for chickens. The actions and events you organise will help to open the eyes of the general public to the truth of factory farming, and add vital pressure onto our corporate targets, ultimately resulting in reducing animal suffering.

As a warm, friendly and approachable person, you will thrive taking the lead organising events and actions and enjoy meeting like-minded people.

We're a remote team, so we can support you wherever you are in the UK. There are no limitations on location.

As a Grassroots Organiser, you will be changing animal lives by:

• Organising events/actions in your local area including social meet-ups, peaceful protests, leafleting and public outreach (roughly 1 event every 6-8 weeks is ideal where possible). All materials are provided and relevant expenses paid.

• Promote your events/actions and encourage others to join you, bringing people together for the animals to create change

• Joining us at other in-person events/actions including peaceful protests organised by staff and other volunteers

• Get involved in campaign actions remotely, such as writing emails, letters, social media actions and more

• Attend online events within the volunteer community

The events and actions you organise don't need to be big, 2 or 3 people getting out there for the animals will make all the difference and we have an existing community of volunteers to tap into.

Perfect for those interested in gaining firsthand experience in campaigning or volunteer management, or just interested in creating direct change for animals. If you’re excited by the prospect of speaking to the public and taking the lead to organise local actions, all while making a genuine difference to animals, this is the role for you.

You will be working directly with THL UK staff members who will steward and support you throughout your time with us, including a full onboarding process to get you started. We'll give you everything you need, no prior experience needed.

There is no set time commitment for this role, you can get involved at a time that works for you, but we ask that you organise at least 1 event every 6-8 weeks where possible. It takes around 4-6 hours to deliver an event (including planning and delivery). Whether you're a student, retired, working full time, or somewhere in between - we would love to welcome you.

If you agree with our vision, and you want to do your part to help end the abuse of animals raised for food, join our team today.

Disclaimer:

The Humane League UK is committed to building a diverse, equitable and inclusive team. We are an equal opportunities organisation and welcome volunteer applications from all people, regardless of their race, sex, age, religion, disability, neurodiversity, orientation, gender identity or expression. We particularly encourage those currently under-represented in the animal movement to join our team – individuals who are Black, Indigenous or People of the Global Majority, a person who is differently abled, and people who are LGBTQIA+.

We endeavour to make all our events and activities as inclusive as possible, with accessibility at the forefront of our minds - not as an afterthought.

If you prefer to apply in another way, or you have alternative requirements you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact us  - please find our email address on the Role Profile document below.

As a dog fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our dogs with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a dog’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered dog. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our dogs are in your foster care, you will:

-       Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.

- Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.

- Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.

- Provide them with your time and patience.

- Help us spread the word about the dogs in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.

- Playing and cuddles are also a must as well as a comfy bed!

                                                                                                                                                                                                       What we are looking for in a volunteer Dog Fosterer

- Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for dogs.

- You will need a secure garden and plenty of time to spend with our dog.

- Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

- For their wellbeing, our dogs need the whole family to be on board and supportive.

- Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case).

                                                                                                                                                                                              What we can offer you as a volunteer Dog Fosterer:

- You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the dogs in your care.

- Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

- Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

- Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our dogs do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster dog.

Location based Altrincham,  Sale,  Knutsford,  Northwich,  Hale,  Timperley

As a cat fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our cats with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a cat’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered cat. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our cats are in your foster care, you will:

- Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.

- Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.

- Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.

- Provide them with your time and patience.

- Help us spread the word about the cats in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.

- Playing and cuddles are also a must!                                                      

What we are looking for in a volunteer Cat Fosterer

- Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for cats.

- Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

- For their wellbeing, our cats need to be kept in a separate room, so the whole family should be on board.

- Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case).

What we can offer you as a volunteer Cat Fosterer

- You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the cats in your care.

- Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

- Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

- Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our cats do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster cat.

Once everything is in place, the branch will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered cat. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Are you a passionate researcher who wants to make a real difference to the lives of animals and humans? We’re seeking talented experts to join our Scientific Advisory Panel and help us accelerate the development and adoption of non-animal research methods.

To reflect the diversity of technological approaches that replacing animals in science requires, we’re looking to grow our Scientific Advisory Panel and would like you to be part of it.

Our current panel is made up of 32 generous and talented professionals who give their time and expertise to help our mission: ensuring scientists use non-animal approaches in biomedical research and testing.

By volunteering on our panel, you’ll not only be a valued member of our charity, you’ll also have the opportunity to network with other experts, have your say on groundbreaking research, and influence real-world change.

“I feel very honoured to be part of this community. I hope I can support the charity in any way possible as I strongly believe we can at least greatly reduce the number of animals used in scientific research.” Current Scientific Advisory Panel member

The role: The main responsibilities of your role will include:

• Supporting the grant review process by undertaking peer review of grant applications.
• Advising and supporting the staff team in monitoring funded projects.
• Supporting our strategic goals of funding research, sharing information and creating change.
• Helping to champion FRAME’s mission and charitable purpose.

Estimated hours: Approx. ½ day – 4 days per year. We’ll need your expertise during late April to early May, and late September through October to review grant applications.

Experience desired: We’re looking for panel members with scientific research experience most likely from an industry or academic background. This experience may relate to basic, translational, applied research, or regulatory testing in any area that is, or would benefit from human-relevant methods. This includes areas where laboratory animals have been used historically or are still widely used today but non-animal approaches are now being developed. Our current panel includes experts from such varied fields as bone tissue engineering and metabolomics through to neuropharmacology and ecotoxicology, and we welcome applications from diverse specialisms. The greater the diversity, the better!

Please note: All applicants should hold a PhD and be a named author on at least one published paper in a relevant research area.

International Aid for the Protection & Welfare of Animals (IAPWA) was founded in 2009 and aims to provide protection and improve the welfare of animals in need. Our first project is based in Borneo, where we provide a lifeline to thousands of dogs and cats every year in need of veterinary care and support. Our companion animal programmes have since developed in other countries, including Romania and Penang Island, as well as support programmes to help other species.

We have recently relaunched our Auctions for Animals online fundraising events and are searching for enthusiastic volunteers to join our team to help source donations. Ideally our volunteers will have some experience in generating donations/prizes for events, or will be happy to spread the word within your local community and collect new or preloved donations for us. 

Tasks will include:

• Identifying suitable avenues for donations, creating and building relationships with our supporters and donors and helping to promote IAPWA within your local community.

• Assisting with the running of our monthly auction events via our Auctions For Animals Facebook Group.

• Packing and Posting sold items. 

Ideally you will;

• Enjoy promoting our charity within the community and help to generate a regular stream of donations. 

• Experience of using Google Docs/Sheets or willingness to learn.

• Be able to work independently and use your own initiative.

• Offer 1-3 hours per week (hours can be fully flexible)

• A passion to help raise funds for animals in our care

What we can offer you;

• Training and support from our Retail Manager and our Auction Team

• An opportunity to build your CV skills and develop your knowledge and experience.

• A chance to help increase the awareness of the important work we do at IAPWA.

• A fully flexible role that can fit around your schedule via remote working.

Salary: This is a voluntary role, with free travel and trip allowances

Are you passionate about adventure, travel, and making a positive impact for animals? Join us at Adventures for Animals, a community and fundraising group supported by International Aid for the Protection and Welfare of Animals (IAPWA). As an Adventure Coordinator you will embark on an incredible journey to lead exciting trips while supporting a meaningful cause.

You will play a vital role in promoting and organising adventurous trips, both within the UK and overseas, for the Adventures for Animals community. Reporting to Nicky Stevens, Founder of IAPWA, you will have the opportunity to inspire others, explore new destinations, and represent Adventures for Animals / IAPWA on unforgettable adventures.

Responsibilities

• Promote Exciting Trips: Take charge of promoting a minimum of 2 UK or overseas trips per year from a curated list of exciting adventures. Utilise your creativity and passion for adventure to generate interest and excitement among potential participants.
• Lead Adventure Expeditions: Once trips reach 50% capacity, you will secure a free place on the expedition. As the Adventure Coordinator, you will lead the group, ensure smooth logistics, and create memorable experiences for participants. Once the trip is at 100% capacity you will also receive a trip allowance.
• Coordinate Travel Logistics: Coordinate travel logistics, including securing return flights once 75% of the trip has been filled. Your attention to detail and organisational skills will ensure seamless travel arrangements for all participants.
• Represent Adventures for Animals & IAPWA: Serve as the face of Adventures for Animals and IAPWA on each trip, embodying our mission and values while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among participants.
• Monthly Team Meetings: Commit to attending monthly team meetings with other Adventure Coordinators to collaborate, share insights, and contribute to the growth of the Adventures for Animals community.
• Organise Hikes and Events: While not essential, you will have the opportunity to organise hikes in the UK to promote the group and upcoming trips. These local events will engage the community and showcase the adventures that await.

Opportunities for the Right Candidate

• Explore Exciting Destinations: Travel to breathtaking locations and experience unforgettable adventures, all while making a positive impact for animals.
• Lead Adventure Expeditions: Once trips reach 50% capacity, you will be given a free place on the expedition. As the Adventure Coordinator, you will help to lead the group, ensure smooth logistics and create memorable experiences for participants. Once the trip is at 75% capacity you will be provided with free return flights for the adventure. Once the trip is at 100% capacity you will also receive a generous trip allowance.
• Coordinate Travel Logistics: Use your attention to detail and organisational skills to ensure seamless travel arrangements for all participants.
• Personal Growth and Development: Develop leadership skills, expand your network, and gain valuable experience in event coordination and community engagement.
• Make a Difference: By leading Adventures for Animals and representing IAPWA, you will play a crucial role in raising awareness and support for animal welfare initiatives.

If you’re an adventure enthusiast with a heart for animals and a desire to make a difference, we invite you to join us as an Adventure Coordinator at Adventures for Animals. Apply now and embark on a journey of a lifetime. Together, let’s make every adventure count for animals in need.

The Trustees’ primary role is to ensure that Ferne fulfils its charitable objectives (see page 4) and that monies received are used effectively. In order to carry out this key role, Trustees (as a Board) must do the following:

Mandate and reputation

Ensure that the charity is properly focussed on its charitable objectives and constitution and operates within the law. The Trustees are responsible for preserving the charity’s good name and reputation.

Strategic Planning

Work with the CEO and the leadership team to plan strategically for the future. Meet at least once a year to review the plan, then update or replace it as circumstances and needs change. The strategic plan is a changing, active document to which all trustees contribute. It is their job to challenge, assess and review the plan before approving the final strategy for the following five years.

Objectives, business plan and budgets

Approve Ferne’s objectives on an annual basis through the business plan and budgets that are submitted at Board meetings.

Risk Identification and Management

Challenge the leadership team to keep effective processes in place to identify potential risks that the charity faces. This risk register is reviewed and updated at each Board meeting.

Management Effectiveness and Succession

Ensure the leadership team is in place and operating effectively and efficiently. The role of Trustees is to question, scrutinise and monitor the leadership team, for which purpose Trustees should have the opportunity to constructively question, test, and challenge leaderships teams views and proposals in the spirit of achieving the charity’s objectives. Although not involved in the regular appointment of new staff, trustees actively recruit and appoint the CEO.

Internal Control and Management Information Systems

Ensure that effective systems exist to protect the organisation, and the necessary management information systems exist to assess and report back the charity’s performance and progress in meeting its objectives.

Accountability

Report back yearly to members, regulatory bodies, associated charities, staff and volunteers, and other stakeholders through the Annual Report, at the Annual general meeting and from time to time through the @Ferne magazine

Every bunny needs some bunny sometimes! Can you help foster our rabbits whilst we are looking for their forever home?

The Cheshire Altrincham Branch covers a large area of Cheshire and we work closely with the Inspectors to provide direct animal welfare services in our area. The main activity of our branch is to rehome cats, dogs and other animals. We rely on fosterers to look after and care for our animals until we can find them their forever homes.

You will be joining our lovely team of friendly rabbit fosterers and receive support from your branch manager and other fosterers in the team.

Often when we think about animal fostering, cats and dogs spring to mind, but have you ever thought about fostering rabbits? The RSPCA received more than 5,000 reports last year about rabbits relating to neglect or abandonment and rescued an average of 340 small furries a month! To help us with the rehoming of these rabbits, we are actively looking to add to our fantastic team of volunteer fosterers.

As a rabbit fosterer, you would play an essential role in providing the rabbits in our care with a temporary home whilst they are being rehomed. Like us, even small furries have specific needs and requirements, but rest assured, once we have guided you through the fostering process the animal centre will ensure that you have all the necessary guidance, equipment, food, and veterinary care.

When our rabbits are in your foster care, you will:

- Provide them with care, safe suitable housing, and space for playtime, as outlined in our policies and guidelines.

- Ensure that they are groomed if appropriate, and fed and watered (they eat a bundle of hay as big as  they are every day!)

- Provide them with suitable and clean bedding to keep them cosy.

- Give them lots of attention and plenty of cuddles as rabbits are very sociable animals.

- The RSPCA is happy to reimburse you for any pre-agreed expenses incurred through volunteering  for us.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Rabbit Fosterer

- Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience of caring for animals.

- Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

- For their wellbeing, our rabbits may need to be fostered in pairs, so please bear this in mind.

- Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be so, please let us know if this is the case).

What we can offer you as a volunteer Rabbit Fosterer

- You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the rabbits in your care.

- Join a community which will enable you to meet new people and make new friends.

- Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

Location Altrincham,  Sale,  Knutsford,  Northwich,  Hale,  Timperley

Are you an animal lover with a passion for making a difference? The International Companion Animals Management Coalition (ICAM) is seeking a dedicated and experienced volunteer to join our team as a Social Media Officer!

At ICAM Coalition, we are committed to ensuring the well-being and humane management of companion animals worldwide. In this position, you will play a vital role in amplifying our mission and raising awareness through the power of social media.

This volunteer role offers you the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of companion animals while enhancing your social media skills and gaining valuable experience in digital advocacy within the charity sector.

Join our dedicated team of animal welfare advocates and be part of a global movement that promotes compassion and effective care for companion animals. If you are interested in becoming a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves please get in touch with us.

We are a lively, diverse and outgoing team who are passionate about raising money for our Animal centre and promoting our branch and it's work caring for animals that may have suffered cruelty and neglect. We also support our branch by helping out at various fundraising and promotional events throughout the year.

As a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant, you would join a small team working with the shop manager and 1-2 other volunteers to help make it a success and raise vital funds for animal welfare.

About Our Charity Shop

The shop plays an essential role in raising the profile of the RSPCA in our local community and funds for our branch so that we can continue our vital animal welfare work. Our shops sell a mixture of donated items, including clothes, books, bric-a-brac and collectables, and a selection of new items. We have positions available on the shop floor and in our stock room or you could volunteer to do a mixture of both.

Volunteer Charity Shop Assistant responsibilities

• Helping customers in the shop find what they need.
• Accepting donations of items and money from the public.
• Processing sales through the till and card machine, including Gift Aid.
• Sorting through donated items to determine what we can sell.
• Preparing donated items for sale by steaming and hanging and items.
• Merchandising stock on the shop floor.
• Creating attractive shop window displays.

What we are looking for in a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant

• Friendly volunteers who are confident talking to people.
• Retail experience would be ideal but is not necessary as full training will be given.
• We are ideally aiming for someone who is flexible and can offer an ongoing commitment predominately on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings and Wednesday and Saturday afternoons for 2 - 3 hours.
• Good communication and numeracy skills.
• You will need to be aged 16 or over.

What we can offer you as a volunteer Charity Shop Assistant

• A way to meet new people and make new friends in your local area.
• A place where you will learn excellent new skills to add to your CV, such as customer service, multi-tasking, merchandising, and many more.
• An excellent induction and training programme relevant to your role.
• The opportunity to make a huge difference to the welfare of animals.
• Reimbursement for any reasonable travel expenses you may incur whilst volunteering with us.

We are looking for cat-loving volunteers to play a vital role in helping us improve the wellbeing of the cats in our care whilst they wait to be rehomed. Can you help them by providing a calm and caring home whilst we find their purrfect forever home

The Cheshire Altrincham Branch covers a large area of Cheshire and we work closely with the Inspectors to provide direct animal welfare services in our area.

The main activity of our branch is to rehome cats, dogs and other animals. We rely on fosterers to look after and care for our animals until we can find them their forever homes.

As a cat fosterer, you would be supporting the RSPCA in providing our cats with the safety of your home whilst tending to their welfare needs such as feeding and grooming. In addition to this, by providing a temporary loving environment, you will play a crucial role in a cat’s wellbeing and socialisation, which will significantly improve their chances of successful rehoming.

 Once everything is in place, the animal centre will guide you through the fostering process and ensure that you have all the necessary equipment, food, and veterinary care for your fostered cat. The RSPCA is also happy to reimburse any other pre-agreed expenses that you may incur through volunteering for us.

Whilst our cats are in your foster care, you will:

• Provide them with care, suitable housing, and a safe environment as per our policies and guidelines.
• Feed, water, and groom them in line with our advice.
• Transport them to any veterinary appointments if required.
• Provide them with your time and patience.
• Help us spread the word about the cats in your care so they might find their forever home quicker.
• Playing and cuddles are also a must! 
•  

 What we are looking for in a volunteer Cat Fosterer:

• Volunteers aged 18 or over who have had plenty of experience caring for cats.

• Fostering experience is beneficial but not essential as training is provided.

• For their wellbeing, our cats need to be kept in a separate room, so the whole family should be on board.

• Any existing pets or animals need to have been spayed/neutered (some medical reasons may mean they can’t be, so please let us know if this is the case).

• Volunteers need to be based in the following areas:  Altrincham, Sale, Knutsford, Northwich, Hale, Timperley

What we can offer you as a volunteer Cat Fosterer:

• You will be making a massive difference to the welfare of the cats in your care.

• Join our lovely team of friendly cat fosterers and receive support from the branch manager as well as other fosterers in the team.

• Meet new people and make new friends.

• Learning new skills through our comprehensive induction and fostering training programme.

• Enhance your CV by adding your volunteering experience and newly acquired skills.

It is worth mentioning that our cats do have different needs as whilst some are ready for rehoming others may require rehabilitation or ongoing medication. Therefore, we also aim to understand your situation and circumstances to ensure that we match you with your perfect foster cat.

If this sounds like the purrfect role for you please apply now 

Our voluntary roles are subject to an informal interview and trial period. We will ask you to provide contact details for two referees, and dependent on the position, you may need to sign an agreement and undergo specific training before starting the role.

Glasgwegians unite for pets in need and their families! Do you have a background in animal welfare or human services? Do you have lived experience as a pet guardian or someone who has sought adoption in the past? Glasgow's pet families need you!

The vision for Glasgow Pet Collective is to create a social justice oriented animal welfare organisation to support Glaswegians and their pets. Our approach will be community informed and will develope innovative programs based on community need. I plan to launch the organisation, with a co-founder or two, so we can help with re-homing pets ASAP because it is a service that is in urgent need.

The role:

Glasgow Pet Collective is seeking one to four co-founders to formulate best practices, policies and innovative programs on which to build the charity. Co-founders will also help to secure charity status, apply for funding, connect with pet parents who need to rehome their dog, cat or other small animal, market pets for adoption, screen adopters and recruit and train volunteers. The scope of the founder's role will be based on their experience, expertise and interest. I anticipate 5 hours of work weekly in the intial phases of set up and would hope that at some point in the not too distant future, we can receive funding to pay for part or (hopefully) full-time staff. As a note, I am a professional grant writer so I am hopeful we can get funding sooner than later!

The problem:

Pet relinquishment requests to animal rescue / shelter organisations have increased up to 60% in 2023. Organisations like Dog's Trust, SSPCA, Cats Protection and Edinburgh Dog and Cat Home are full to the brink and are simply not able to accommodate the deluge of requests for help.

In the mean time, cats and dogs live in homes that are not conducive to either their or their human guardians' wellbeing. Cats are living in homes with co-occupants that cause them great stress, and potentially exhibiting destructive behaviours due to their distress. Dogs with separation anxiety are living in homes who cannot spend enough time with them. And humans are struggling to feed their families and their pets at the same time.

In most cases, human support services that allow the human/animal family to remain intact are the ideal response to these issues. Keeping families together highly advantageous to the wellbeing of all family members - two and four-legged. AND financial assistance, accessiblity of services and/or modifications to the home environment can solve the issues that often lead pet parents to seek rehoming services.

Pet food banks are critical to ensuring dedicated families keep their pets fed without jeopardising the needs of their human families. Training and behaviour professionals can help dogs cope with separation. Accessible veterinary care can allow families with financial constraints to keep their pets instead of relinquishing for hope of the animal getting the help they need.

About me:

My name is Caitlin Mendoza-Price. I am an animal welfare professional from Los Angeles. I spent the last 10 years working in feline lifesaving programs, fundraising and grant writing. Admittedly, the landscape and needs of animals in Scotland is largely different than the one I have built most of my expertise within. 

However, after two years in Scotland, and lessons learnt from conferences and conversations with professionals, pet parents and prospective adopters, I've come to understand that the Scotland is in great need of increased rehoming and human animal support services.