Work and volunteering at an animal shelter
Animal shelters operate using a combination of paid staff and volunteers: both are legitimate ways to work with animals, even though they differ in many respects. Here is an overview of what each option entails and how to apply to join a shelter.
Volunteering or employment?
Before you register, it is advisable to know which type of connection you are seeking: both routes lead to the same destination, but they differ in terms of time, responsibility and remuneration.
| Volunteer | Employee | |
|---|---|---|
| Time required | A few hours a week, flexible | Regular employment (full-time or part-time) |
| Remuneration | Without entitlement to wages | Approximately 25,000-35,000 Kč/month. |
| Liability | Limited, under staff supervision | Full responsibility for equipment operation and animal care |
| Entry requirements | Usually maturity, on-site training | Experience with animals an advantage, good physical fitness required. |
| Who is this suitable for | Who wants to find out if working with animals is enjoyable for them | Who wants work with animals as their main income |
Volunteering is also an ideal first step for anyone considering a career with animals and wanting to try it out without commitment. You can find many other professions in the field in the overview. 15 professions involving animals.
What work in a shelter really entails
The daily routine in a shelter is physically and mentally more demanding than people from the outside often imagine. Key activities include:
- Feeding and cleaning - regular feeding according to the menu, cleaning of enclosures and outdoor runs, disinfection
- Exercise and movement Dogs need to be let out every day, even outside working hours.
- Socialisation of animals - work with fear, aggression or excessive shyness to give the animal a chance of successful adoption
- Healthcare - administering medication, monitoring health status, cooperating with a veterinarian
- Communication with adoption applicants - inspections, advisory services, management of adoption documentation
The emotional side of the work can also be demanding, shelters encounter neglected or abused animals, and not every story has a happy ending. Maintaining professional detachment is key to long-term success in this field.
How to register
The procedure is similar in most shelters:
- Contact the shelter - by email or telephone, briefly state your interest and availability.
- Book a trial day - most shelters will first offer a one-off visit or training before placing you on the regular rota
- When looking for a job, keep an eye on job postings. - Paid positions are filled less frequently; it is worth monitoring them regularly on job portals and directly at shelters in your area.
- Count on meeting basic requirements - volunteering usually requires being of legal age, while employment requires experience with animals or a willingness to learn quickly.
Regional and municipal shelters, as well as smaller rescue stations, usually welcome new volunteers, simply contact them directly to arrange specific involvement according to your availability.
What to expect from day one
On your trial day, wear clothing that can come into contact with mud, fur or disinfectant, and sturdy footwear. The staff will usually first give you a tour of the facility, introduce you to the daily routine and show you how to handle specific animals, each has its own story and sometimes specific needs that require attention (fear of men, sensitivity to loud noises, need for a slower approach). Do not be afraid to ask about anything that is unclear, experienced caretakers appreciate advice, as the safety of both animals and people always comes first.
If the first day appeals to you, many shelters offer the opportunity to gradually take on more responsibilities: from basic cleaning and feeding to regular walks with specific wards or assistance during adoption viewings. This gradual path also serves as a good starting point if you wish to remain in the field professionally later on.
How much time volunteering will take
The scope of involvement is usually flexible for volunteers, some come once a week for a few hours, others regularly at weekends. Shelters generally value regularity more than the number of hours worked, as animals get used to specific people and their approach. Before committing to a regular schedule, try out two or three different shifts (morning, afternoon, weekend) to find which time suits you best and when the shelter has the greatest need for help.
Are you looking for paid work at an animal shelter?
On mazlic.cz you will find current job offers in animal shelters and rescue stations across the Czech Republic.
View offers on mazlic.cz