Second Chance SPCA operates a no-kill animal shelter and is a volunteer based organization.

We are open to the public 6 days a week, and have opportunities to volunteer during our business hours.

Our business hours are:

CLOSED Monday
Tue - Fri: 1pm to 7pm
Sat - Sun: Noon to 5pm

SCSPCA rescues animals that are in danger of euthanasia from municipal shelters, and provides them routine vet care and a safe, loving environment until they are adopted into their permanent homes.

Your generous donation of time makes a real difference in the lives of both our animals and our human team. Our small, but mighty organization brings people with diverse backgrounds together in the common cause of reducing the numbers of adoptable animals that are euthanized in city shelters every day. As a member of our volunteer team, you will see and feel the difference that your support makes possible.

Our volunteers all begin initially volunteering in our adoption center and assist with daily tasks. Other volunteer opportunities are available for experienced volunteers. If you are interested in becoming more involved with SCSPCA, please let us know.

This form is only for volunteers interesting in becoming involved with Second Chance SCPA. We do allow volunteering for school hours, but the requirements listed below must be met. If you are under 18, please read through the entire packet with your parent and have them sign the required documents.

• Volunteers are required to be 16 years-old, or older
• Volunteers are required to volunteer a minimum of 4 hours per month
• Volunteers are required to commit to 50 hours per year
• Volunteers are required to pay an administrative fee of $25 – This includes a shirt that you will wear when volunteering
• Volunteers must wear closed-toed shoes
• Volunteers must complete the following application, and sign all release forms
• Volunteers must attend an orientation prior to any volunteering
• Volunteers must work with an experienced volunteer for 2 shifts, before volunteering on their own. We do have limited spots available for new volunteers, so that they can be properly trained.

Due to the small staff, we can only allow a few new volunteers per shift. You will sign-up indicating that you are new to volunteering, and we will have an experienced volunteer train you.

Volunteering with Second Chance SPCA is a rewarding experience, but is also a demanding role and should be taken seriously. To insure the safety of our staff, volunteers and animals, volunteers must meet the qualifications listed below.

Essential Physical Capabilities

• Quick reflexes and ability to use both hands simultaneously (example: open cage door while handling animal).
• Ability to walk unaided on unpaved, uneven, rugged and sometimes muddy and slippery areas (when walking dogs outdoors).
• Ability to stand for significant periods of time while walking dogs, assisting the public with visits, or cleaning cages/kennels.
• Average vision to move safely around the building, to be able to observe animal body language without difficulty, and to be able to read notes.
• Average sense of smell and touch in order to assess body condition of animals, and to note signs of illness or injury.
• Ability to hear if animal is growling or making sounds indicating fear or pain.
• Ability to speak and effectively communicate verbally.
• Ability to maneuver well in tight spaces and react and move quickly in order to prevent dogs or cats from escaping.
• Ability to handle and restrain animals with extreme caution and care.
• This requires average vision, hearing, steadiness of hands and body, quick reflexes, physical strength, and mental alertness.
• Ability to deal with strong and unpleasant odors, fleas, feces and possible wounds or injuries to animals in our care.
• Ability to cope in a loud environment due to animal noises.
• Average strength to assist with lifting animals or items.

Essential Mental Capabilities

• Ability to understand, retain and follow instructions and procedures.
• Must have the ability to judge an animal’s reaction and to change voice to a soft or strong, authoritative tone in order to calm a dog or to give commands.
• Must be aware of surroundings when working with the animals, and have the ability to remain calm with animals who are upset; behave sensitively and confidently; show good judgment and act appropriately in these situations.
• Once trained, must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, and recognize limitations in knowledge and abilities, and ask for help when needed.
• Must have the ability to work as a team member with other volunteers and take direction from SCSPCA Shift Leaders and Staff.

If you have any questions regarding the volunteer application, please email us at volunteer@secondchancespca.org or call us at 972-424-0077.