Volunteering for animal welfare – Are you in?
Many people are committed to protecting nature and animals. And every helping hand is urgently needed, because the number of animals in need is not decreasing. We are therefore calling on you to join us in helping animals and people: Whether it’s redesigning the website, cuddling cats or walking dogs – there are many ways to support the local animal welfare association.
Voluntary commitment to animal welfare is diverse
There are lots of ways to get involved in animal welfare, help animals and support associations. Every helping hand is welcome and urgently needed.
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Stroking & painting
Both are needed at the shelter! Cat-crawlers and dog walkers are just as important there as people who hit the nail on the head. Whether it’s repairing fences or sprucing up green spaces, you can make a lasting impression in animal welfare with your manual skills.
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Walk the dog
Do you love dogs but don’t have your own? Do you like being outside? Then find out about volunteering as a dog walker at your local animal shelter! Head out into the countryside with your furry friend. Wind, forest, meadows – and lots of great moments await.
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Cat cuddling
Whether cuddly cat or scratchy cat – many shelter cats benefit from cat cuddlers. Beginners can make the trusting velvet paws purr. Animal lovers with a heart for shy animals sit down patiently and read a book in a calm voice. The cat dares to come to you? Congratulations: you are a cat whisperer.
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Distribution at animal food banks
Animal food banks regularly support needy pet owners and their animal companions. Hard-working helpers are welcome to help with food distribution and preparation. Discover the special teamspirit and get to know numerous pets and their owners.
10 tips for your voluntary engagement
- Welcoming: Animal welfare activists have a lot to do – and yet they are always ready to listen to people like you who want to get involved.
- Trust: Trustworthy organizations are recognized as non-profit organizations.
- Patience: Reputable aid organizations do not pressure you to get involved or make donations.
- Bringing joy: Volunteering can be exhausting. So choose tasks that you enjoy and that suit your talents.
- Innovation: No time to help on site? Many organizations also appreciate your commitment at home. For example, as a baking fairy for a club party.
- Schedule: Temporary projects or permanent work – what suits your everyday life? If in doubt, get advice from experienced animal rights activists.
- Finances: Clarify which material costs and expenses you would like to bear yourself and what the association will cover.
- Safety: Before working for an animal welfare organization, ask how accident and liability issues are regulated.
Tip: A tetanus vaccination is recommended if you have a lot of contact with animals. - Transparency: Are you regularly involved on a long-term basis? Secondary employment must be reported. On request, you will receive a certificate of your commitment for your employer.
- Allowances: Those who receive a small financial allowance for their commitment usually will not be taxed on these.
Your voluntary work - with heart and mind
Heart
There are countless opportunities to do good. Decide on a commitment that is particularly close to your heart.
Time
One-off, regular or irregular? Plan in advance how much time you can and want to invest.
Getting started
Get trained! Volunteering needs know-how, animal welfare activists are happy to provide information about the opportunities.
Optimism
There is a lot to do – don’t get carried away and be happy about every little success.
