1. Online Volunteer Orientation SPCA of Central Florida

2. Our Mission To promote responsible human behavior towards animals. Our Vision To no longer be needed.

3. Objectives To introduce you to the volunteer opportunities at the SPCA of Central Florida. To educate you on the programs available to the public provided by the SPCA of Central Florida. To provide you with information about animal care and pet overpopulation issues. To give you more detailed information about sheltering animals at the SPCA of Central Florida

4. Instructions You will be given fact or fiction questions. Please answer them to move on to the next page. At the end of the program, if you are interested in volunteering, please fill out the online application. A volunteer manager will contact you after receiving and reviewing your application to provide you with the necessary instructions. Please note it could take up to 1 week for a response after you have submitted your application.

5. About the SPCA of Central Florida An SPCA is different from a Humane Society. FICTION FACT

6. Congratulations The SPCA is a Society for Prevention to Cruelty to Animals. The work of a Humane Society and an SPCA is the same – just two different, but interchangeable, names whose mission is to protect and care for companion animals.

7. Sorry The SPCA is a Society for Prevention to Cruelty to Animals. The work of a Humane Society and an SPCA is the same – just two different, but interchangeable, names whose mission is to protect and care for companion animals.

8. The SPCA of Central Florida is not funded by the government. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

9. Congratulations The SPCA of Central Florida is an independent, private, 501c3 non-profit corporation. The SPCA of Central Florida is supported through the services we provide and the gifts made to us by community members. Our agency does NOT receive funds from County, State or Federal governments. We are NOT the same as County Animal Services. We do NOT receive any funding from, nor are we affiliated with, national animal welfare agencies such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), the American Society of Prevention to Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), or the American Humane Association (AHA).

10. The SPCA of Central Florida is an independent, private, 501c3 non-profit corporation. The SPCA of Central Florida is supported through the services we provide and the gifts made to us by community members. Our agency does NOT receive funds from County, State or Federal governments. We are NOT the same as County Animal Services. We do NOT receive any funding from, nor are we affiliated with, national animal welfare agencies such as the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), the American Society of Prevention to Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), or the American Humane Association (AHA). Sorry

11. People must live in Orange, Osceola or Seminole Counties to access the services and programs of the SPCA of Central Florida. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

12. Congratulations The SPCA of Central Florida has no geographic restrictions for accessing our services. Through our 2 facilities and our mobile vet clinic, we serve community members in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia and Brevard Counties.

13. Sorry The SPCA of Central Florida has no geographic restrictions for accessing our services. Through our 2 facilities and our mobile vet clinic, we serve community members in Orange, Seminole, Osceola, Lake, Volusia and Brevard Counties.

14. The SPCA of Central Florida does NOT pick up stray or lost animals. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

15. Congratulations All of the animals in our shelter are surrendered by their owners. They have come from a home environment, but their owners are no longer able or willing to care for them for various reasons: allergies, no time, moving, etc. Last year, we received more than 13,500 companion animals relinquished to our shelters from their owners. Picking up and sheltering lost, abandoned or stray animals is the responsibility of local Animal Services (Orange County Animal Services, Seminole County Animal Services, Osceola County Animal Services), government-run and financed facilities. These agencies operate separately from the SPCA of Central Florida.

16. Sorry All of the animals in our shelter are surrendered by their owners. They have come from a home environment, but their owners are no longer able or willing to care for them for various reasons: allergies, no time, moving, etc. Last year, we received more than 13,500 companion animals relinquished to our shelters from their owners. Picking up and sheltering lost, abandoned or stray animals is the responsibility of local Animal Services (Orange County Animal Services, Seminole County Animal Services, Osceola County Animal Services), government-run and financed facilities. These agencies operate separately from the SPCA of Central Florida.

17. The SPCA of Central Florida believes that adopting shelter pets to new homes is the best way to prevent pet overpopulation. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

18. Congratulations Education and prevention through spay/neuter surgery are more effective solutions than simply focusing on more adoptions. There are too many puppies and kittens produced every year, and there just are not enough potential owners to go around.

19. Sorry Education and prevention through spay/neuter surgery are more effective solutions than simply focusing on more adoptions. There are too many puppies and kittens produced every year, and there just are not enough potential owners to go around.

20. The SPCA of Central Florida has a time limit for how long pets will remain in our shelters. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

21. Congratulations There is no time limit for how long pets will remain in our shelters. As long as the animals are healthy and of good temperament, they will remain at the shelter until adopted. However, our goal is to help pets find new homes rather than remaining forever in a shelter.

22. Sorry There is no time limit for how long pets will remain in our shelters. As long as the animals are healthy and of good temperament, they will remain at the shelter until adopted. However, our goal is to help pets find new homes rather than remaining forever in a shelter.

23. The SPCA of Central Florida will never turn away people and their pets because the kennels are full. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

24. Congratulations We never turn pets away, nor do we euthanize pets because of space. We will always find a safe and healthy space to care for them.

25. Sorry We never turn pets away, nor do we euthanize pets because of space. We will always find a safe and healthy space to care for them.

26. The veterinarians who work for the SPCA of Central Florida are all volunteers who donate their services to the clinic. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

27. Congratulations The many veterinarians who provide such excellent service to the pets of our community and our shelters are all employed by the SPCA of Central Florida. Each is a highly skilled professional (DVM), licensed in Florida.

28. Sorry The many veterinarians who provide such excellent service to the pets of our community and our shelters are all employed by the SPCA of Central Florida. Each is a highly skilled professional (DVM), licensed in Florida.

29. SPCA Volunteers and SPCA Staff have totally different agendas, goals, and objectives. About the SPCA of Central Florida FACT FICTION

30. Congratulations Its accurate to say that the day-to-day responsibilities and schedules of volunteers and staff are very different. However, SPCA Volunteers and SPCA staff are colleagues, all working together toward the achievement of the agencys mission and vision. Each is a critical component in the work of the SPCA of Central Florida.

31. Sorry Its accurate to say that the day-to-day responsibilities and schedules of volunteers and staff are very different. However, SPCA Volunteers and SPCA staff are colleagues, all working together toward the achievement of the agencys mission and vision. Each is a critical component in the work of the SPCA of Central Florida.

32. Volunteers with the SPCA of Central Florida are expected to be in agreement with the agencys Position Statements, found on our website www.orlandopets.org,www.orlandopets.org FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

33. Congratulations All of us who love animals hold a wide variety of personal views on animal welfare issues. However, as a Volunteer with the SPCA of Central Florida, it is expected that each person will be personally supportive of the Positions approved by the agencys Board of Directors, speaking as with one voice to the community on behalf of the agency. If you find there is a particular Position with which you disagree, please speak with a Volunteer Manager for clarification.

34. Sorry All of us who love animals hold a wide variety of personal views on animal welfare issues. However, as a Volunteer with the SPCA of Central Florida, it is expected that each person will be personally supportive of the Positions approved by the agencys Board of Directors, speaking as with one voice to the community on behalf of the agency. If you find there is a particular Position with which you disagree, please speak with a Volunteer Manager for clarification.

35. The services provided by the vet clinics of the SPCA of Central Florida are free or are only for people of limited means. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

36. Congratulations At both the Orlando and Sanford facilities, as well as our Mobile Vet unit, we have full-service medical clinics for the general public. These clinics offer all regular veterinary services (including annual exams, spay/neuter services, vaccines, dental care, tumor removals, etc.) at an affordable price as part of our mission. However, this is not a free clinic nor do we subsidize treatments at other clinics. All pets must be spayed/neutered for their owners to access clinic services. There are no other restrictions.

37. Sorry At both the Orlando and Sanford facilities, as well as our Mobile Vet unit, we have full-service medical clinics for the general public. These clinics offer all regular veterinary services (including annual exams, spay/neuter services, vaccines, dental care, tumor removals, etc.) at an affordable price as part of our mission. However, this is not a free clinic nor do we subsidize treatments at other clinics. All pets must be spayed/neutered for their owners to access clinic services. There are no other restrictions.

38. The only programs provided by the SPCA of Central Florida are animal sheltering and vet clinics. FACT FICTION About the SPCA of Central Florida

39. Congratulations There are many ways to help the community and its pets through community outreach programs. Some of our programs include: investigating concerns about animal cruelty; providing temporary shelter and vet care for the pets of families in crisis (Project F.A.I.T.H.); providing pet food and vet care for the pets of low-income seniors (Pet Food Xpress); and providing educations programs, including summer camp for children, for community members of all ages.

40. Sorry There are many ways to help the community and its pets through community outreach programs. Some of our programs include: investigating concerns about animal cruelty; providing temporary shelter and vet care for the pets of families in crisis (Project F.A.I.T.H.); providing pet food and vet care for the pets of low-income seniors (Pet Food Xpress); and providing educations programs, including summer camp for children, for community members of all ages.

41. About Pets All pets adopted from the SPCA of Central Florida are tested, vaccinated, microchipped and fixed by SPCA staff before they go to their new homes. FACT FICTION

42. Congratulations The current adoption fee is $75 for all animals regardless of age. This includes: all necessary testing (Heartworm for dogs and FELV/FIV for cats), rabies and other necessary basic vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, micro chipping, and a general health assessment.

43. Sorry The current adoption fee is $75 for all animals regardless of age. This includes: all necessary testing (Heartworm for dogs and FELV/FIV for cats), rabies and other necessary basic vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, micro chipping, and a general health assessment.

44. Neutering is the term used for fixing dogs. Spaying is the term used for fixing cats. FACT FICTION About Pets

45. Congratulations Spaying is the term used for the surgery that keeps a female pet (either cat or dog) from being able to reproduce. Neutering is the term used for fixing male pets (either cat or dog).

46. Sorry Spaying is the term used for the surgery that keeps a female pet (either cat or dog) from being able to reproduce. Neutering is the term used for fixing male pets (either cat or dog).

47. It is safe to spay/neuter ( fix ) pets at 8 weeks of age. FACT FICTION About Pets

48. Congratulations The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association are just two professional organizations that support early spaying/neutering. The SPCA of Central Florida has been safely performing early spay/neuter surgeries since the opening of its first vet clinic in 1992. The SPCA of Central Florida firmly believes that in order to end pet overpopulation, we must do our best to control the problem. For every person that is born, 15 dogs and 45 cats are born! There are just too many animals and not enough homes! The quickest, safest, and most effective way to help end pet overpopulation is early spay/neuter surgery.

49. Sorry The American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Animal Hospital Association are just two professional organizations that support early spaying/neutering. The SPCA of Central Florida has been safely performing early spay/neuter surgeries since the opening of its first vet clinic in 1992. The SPCA of Central Florida firmly believes that in order to end pet overpopulation, we must do our best to control the problem. For every person that is born, 15 dogs and 45 cats are born! There are just too many animals and not enough homes! The quickest, safest, and most effective way to help end pet overpopulation is early spay/neuter surgery.

50. Declawing cats is safe and humane. FACT FICTION About Pets

51. Congratulations Declawing is the painful amputation of the first knuckle of the cat s toe. Declawing should be considered only when clawing presents a significant health risk for people within the household. Cats may be defenseless without full use of their claws if they, either intentionally or unintentionally, go outdoors. Scratching damage to household furnishings can be minimized or avoided by routine clipping of the claws, the use of claw covers and by redirecting the cat's activity to acceptable surfaces.

52. Sorry Declawing is the painful amputation of the first knuckle of the cat s toe. Declawing should be considered only when clawing presents a significant health risk for people within the household. Cats may be defenseless without full use of their claws if they, either intentionally or unintentionally, go outdoors. Scratching damage to household furnishings can be minimized or avoided by routine clipping of the claws, the use of claw covers and by redirecting the cat's activity to acceptable surfaces.

53. Heartworm disease is preventable. FACT FICTION About Pets

54. Congratulations Heartworm disease is transmitted to animals through a bite from a mosquito containing the infected larvae of roundworms. The parasite is commonly called "heartworm" because when the worm is in its adult stage, it lives primarily in the right ventricle of the host s heart where it can live for many years. Heartworm infection may result in serious disease for the host animal. Although at one time confined to the southern United States, heartworm disease is now a problem for all pets living where mosquitoes are found. But the good news is that there are tests to detect it and medications to prevent it.

55. Sorry Heartworm disease is transmitted to animals through a bite from a mosquito containing the infected larvae of roundworms. The parasite is commonly called "heartworm" because when the worm is in its adult stage, it lives primarily in the right ventricle of the host s heart where it can live for many years. Heartworm infection may result in serious disease for the host animal. Although at one time confined to the southern United States, heartworm disease is now a problem for all pets living where mosquitoes are found. But the good news is that there are tests to detect it and medications to prevent it.

56. Cats and dogs can get a cold. FACT FICTION About Pets

57. Congratulations Like humans, cats and dogs can get a cold. This is usually referred to as kennel cough in dogs and URI (Upper Respiratory Infections) in cats. This can occur in shelter pets because stress lowers their ability to fight infections. No matter how good our care is … it s still not home. As with any cold, the best treatment is to provide relief from symptoms while allowing the virus to run its course. Although not typically fatal, it can be serious if ignored. Because it is contagious to other pets, we will keep sick pets isolated from healthy ones in our shelters.

58. Sorry Like humans, cats and dogs can get a cold. This is usually referred to as kennel cough in dogs and URI (Upper Respiratory Infections) in cats. This can occur in shelter pets because stress lowers their ability to fight infections. No matter how good our care is … it s still not home. As with any cold, the best treatment is to provide relief from symptoms while allowing the virus to run its course. Although not typically fatal, it can be serious if ignored. Because it is contagious to other pets, we will keep sick pets isolated from healthy ones in our shelters.

59. Distemper disease in dogs is easily treated and is not a worry for dog owners. FACT FICTION About Pets

60. Congratulations Distemper disease in dogs is highly contagious and usually fatal. There is currently no available medication that can destroy the virus. The distemper virus is passed from dog to dog through direct contact with fresh urine, blood, feces, or saliva. Sneezing, coughing and sharing food and water bowls are all possible ways for the virus to be passed on. Prevention is the best method to guard against this devastating disease in dogs. Puppies should receive vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age when the mother s antibodies passed to the puppy have worn off. Boosters should be given every 2-3 weeks until the puppy is 14-16 weeks old. The vaccine can then be boostered annually.

61. Sorry Distemper disease in dogs is highly contagious and usually fatal. There is currently no available medication that can destroy the virus. The distemper virus is passed from dog to dog through direct contact with fresh urine, blood, feces, or saliva. Sneezing, coughing and sharing food and water bowls are all possible ways for the virus to be passed on. Prevention is the best method to guard against this devastating disease in dogs. Puppies should receive vaccinations starting at 6-8 weeks of age when the mother s antibodies passed to the puppy have worn off. Boosters should be given every 2-3 weeks until the puppy is 14-16 weeks old. The vaccine can then be boostered annually.

62. About Volunteering Volunteers with the SPCA of Central Florida only help take care of shelter pets. FACT FICTION

63. Congratulations There are many volunteer opportunities that help us fulfill our mission. Some of these opportunities do include working directly with shelter pets or with pets in the vet clinics. But that s not for everyone who wants to help. And not everyone can make that kind of a time commitment. Other volunteer options include fostering pets in your home, taking your own pet to visit seniors and sick children, helping in our office, or assisting at one of our special events.

64. Sorry There are many volunteer opportunities that help us fulfill our mission. Some of these opportunities do include working directly with shelter pets or with pets in the vet clinics. But that s not for everyone who wants to help. And not everyone can make that kind of a time commitment. Other volunteer options include fostering pets in your home, taking your own pet to visit seniors and sick children, helping in our office, or assisting at one of our special events.

65. There are no expectations for how long a shelter volunteer should plan to commit to their volunteer job. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

66. Congratulations Because of the time needed for training and to become comfortable in the role as a new volunteer, our expectation is for a minimum time commitment of 6 months.

67. Sorry Because of the time needed for training and to become comfortable in the role as a new volunteer, our expectation is for a minimum time commitment of 6 months.

68. Shelter volunteers seldom have to help clean up after our pets. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

69. Congratulations We strive to maintain a clean and pleasant shelter – important for both pets and people. The primary responsibility of shelter staff is to provide the necessary daily care to our pets, and this includes regularly cleaning up after them. However, those who volunteer in either the dog kennels or the cat rooms can assume they will see something that needs to be cleaned up, and we hope they will help.

70. Sorry We strive to maintain a clean and pleasant shelter – important for both pets and people. The primary responsibility of shelter staff is to provide the necessary daily care to our pets, and this includes regularly cleaning up after them. However, those who volunteer in either the dog kennels or the cat rooms can assume they will see something that needs to be cleaned up, and we hope they will help.

71. Shelter volunteers usually have to interact with our customers. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

72. Congratulations Liking people and working with them as much as with the pets is important for shelter volunteers. A satisfied customer is much more likely to seriously think about adopting a shelter pet and much more likely to make a good adoption decision.

73. Sorry Liking people and working with them as much as with the pets is important for shelter volunteers. A satisfied customer is much more likely to seriously think about adopting a shelter pet and much more likely to make a good adoption decision.

74. Volunteers can bring their family members with them to help volunteer. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

75. Congratulations Just like any job commitment, volunteering requires training and concentration for it to be completed safely and accurately. That is impossible to do when attention is drawn to family members.

76. Sorry Just like any job commitment, volunteering requires training and concentration for it to be completed safely and accurately. That is impossible to do when attention is drawn to family members.

77. The SPCA of Central Florida does not accept as volunteers those who are ordered by the court to do community service. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

78. Congratulations This is correct. We do not accept court ordered volunteers.

79. Sorry This is correct. We do not accept court ordered volunteers.

80. Working as a volunteer with the SPCA of Central Florida is usually a very calm and quiet experience. FACT FICTION About Volunteering

81. Congratulations Working in any position with the SPCA of Central Florida, whether as staff or volunteer, is very seldom calm and quiet ….but it s always interesting! We hope you ll consider becoming a part of our team.

82. Sorry Working in any position with the SPCA of Central Florida, whether as staff or volunteer, is very seldom calm and quiet ….but it s always interesting! We hope you ll consider becoming a part of our team.

83. Volunteer Opportunities SPCA of Central Florida

84. Things to Consider Before you begin to explore the volunteer options available with the SPCA of Central Florida, please take a moment and see if you agree or disagree with the following general statements. I can make a minimum of a 6-month commitment to volunteering. So that pets, people, and I will stay safe, I understand that I will have to go through special training before I can officially become a volunteer with the SPCA of Central Florida. It s important to always follow all the rules and procedures set by the SPCA of Central Florida for the care of people and pets even if I don t always agree with them.

85. Things to Consider I will be sure to be informed about the SPCA of Central Florida so I can be a good ambassador to members of our community. It s important to see SPCA staff as my partners in helping care for people and pets. I am willing to pay for an SPCA volunteer t-shirt and name tag ($15), as well as pay for and complete a background check ($10) if required for the specific volunteer position.

86. Things to Consider I will be happy to regularly communicate with the Volunteer Program Manager about my volunteer experience. I understand the importance of confidentiality about agency operations, client and pet information before, during, and after my volunteer experience.

87. Things to Consider If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then you are ready to look at the volunteer options available with the SPCA of Central Florida. If this isn t the right time for you to consider volunteering with the SPCA of Central Florida, we thank you for taking the time to consider our agency for your gift of time and talent. We hope to see you supporting animal welfare in Central Florida by attending one of our many special fundraising events.

88. Take your Pick Option 1: Bark Buddy Option 2: Kitty Cuddler Option 3: Kennel Coach Option 4: Hospital Helper Option 5: Party Animal Option 6: Office Wizard Option 7: Foster Parent Option 8: Pet Visitation Program Option 9: Creature Teacher Option 10: Pet Food XPRESS (PFX) Option 10: Pet Food XPRESS (PFX) Option 11: Crafty Critters

89. SPCA Note of Importance for potential Bark Buddies: Learning how to handle dogs – and especially how to handle large dogs – in a shelter environment is not an easy task. It will require time for substantial training. The less time you have spent handling dogs, the greater the need and time for training. Please be sure you can allocate both the time and patience for this training.

90. SPCA Note of Importance for potential Bark Buddies: Your safety and the safety of our shelter dogs are of paramount importance to the SPCA of Central Florida. If you have never handled dogs, or your experience was very long ago, this may not be the right volunteer opportunity for you. You may want to consider reviewing and selecting another way to assist the agency and our shelter pets.

91. Option 1: Bark Buddy I don t have dog allergies, or I am comfortable that the allergy medication I take will handle any potential problems. I enjoy talking to and helping people as much as I enjoy helping dogs. I enjoy handling dogs of all sizes, ages, and breeds. Even though I ve handled dogs before, I know that working with shelter dogs will be different and will require more patience and energy. I wont mind getting a few doggie nips during my volunteer work.

92. Option 1: Bark Buddy I am agile enough to get in and out of dog kennels, while handling dogs of all sizes. I know that working with the dogs in a shelter can be a very noisy place. I don t mind getting dirty and going home smelling a bit like dog, and if my clothes are sometimes covered with poopy paws, that is okay. I have recent experience in handling dogs of all sizes, ages, breeds and temperaments.

93. Option 1: Bark Buddy I m OK working in the shelter with the dogs even when it s very hot or raining. I have the strength to handle large, active dogs on my own, and Im capable of handling the physical work necessary. I can commit to volunteering 6-8 hours/month. I know that not every dog I work with will have the happy ending of my choice, and I ll do my best to support the shelter staff as they do their very hard work on behalf of the community and its pets.

94. Option 1: Bark Buddy If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Bark Buddy. Just click here for the link to the Bark Buddy application.Just click here for the link to the Bark Buddy application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

95. SPCA Note of Importance for potential Kitty Cuddlers: Learning how to handle cats – and especially how to handle frightened cats – in a shelter environment is not an easy task. It will require time for substantial training. The less time you have spent handling cats, the greater the need and time for training. Please be sure you can allocate both the time and patience for this training.

96. SPCA Note of Importance for potential Kitty Cuddlers: Your safety and the safety of our shelter cats are of paramount importance to the SPCA of Central Florida. If you have never handled cats, or your experience was very long ago, this may not be the right volunteer opportunity for you. You may want to consider reviewing and selecting another way to assist the agency and our shelter pets.

97. Option 2: Kitty Cuddler I have recent experience in handling cats of all sizes, ages, and temperaments. Even though Ive handled cats before, I know that working with frightened shelter cats will be different and will require more patience and energy. I have the strength to handle large, active cats – and crazy little kittens – all with sharp claws - on my own, and Im capable of handling the physical work necessary.

98. Option 2: Kitty Cuddler I don t have cat allergies, or I am comfortable that the allergy medication I take will handle any potential problems. I enjoy talking to and helping people as much as I enjoy helping cats. I enjoy handling cats of all sizes, ages and breeds. I know that working with the cats in a shelter requires patience and very careful handling.

99. Option 2: Kitty Cuddler I won t mind if I get a few cat scratches during my volunteer work. I don t mind cleaning litter pans, cleaning up gifts of yuck on the floor, having my clothes covered with lots of cat hair, and going home smelling a bit like cat. I m OK with the smells that are common even in the cleanest of pet shelters. I can stretch up high and bend down low, and I can climb up on a step stool as needed.

100. Option 2: Kitty Cuddler I can commit to volunteering 6-8 hours/month. I know that not every cat I work with will have the happy ending of my choice, and I ll do my best to support the shelter staff as they do their very hard work on behalf of the community and its pets.

101. Option 2: Kitty Cuddler If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Kitty Cuddler. Just click here for the link to the Kitty Cuddler application.Just click here for the link to the Kitty Cuddler application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

102. SPCA Note of Importance for potential Kennel Coach: Your safety and the safety of our shelter pets are of paramount importance to the SPCA of Central Florida. To qualify for this position, you must first be a bark buddy and have completed 3 months and accumulated a minimum of 20 hours within the 3 months. In this position who are able to work with both dogs and cats; however, we will accept dog only applicants.

103. Option 3: Kennel Coach I dont have dog or cat allergies, or I am comfortable that the allergy medication I take will handle any potential problems. I enjoy handling dogs and cats of all sizes, ages, and breeds. Even though Ive handled dogs and cats before, I know that working with shelter pets will be different and will require more patience and energy. I have the strength to handle large, active dogs on my own, and Im capable of handling the physical work necessary.

104. Option 3: Kennel Coach I dont mind getting dirty and going home smelling a bit, and if my clothes are sometimes covered with poppy paws and fur, that is okay. I dont mind getting a few doggie nips and kitty scratches during my volunteer work. I have recent experience in handling dogs and cats of all sizes, ages, breeds, and temperaments.

105. Option 3: Kennel Coach I am agile enough to get in and out of dog kennels and cat cages, while handling dogs and cats of all sizes. I know that working in a shelter can be very noisy place. I dont mind getting dirty. I am willing to follow the SPCA of Central Floridas guidelines when working with dogs or cats. Even if I disagree with a method, I will comply with the SPCA of Central Floridas guidelines and training procedures.

106. Option 3: Kennel Coach I can commit to volunteering 6-8 hours/month. I know that not every animal I work with will have the happy ending of my choice, and I ll do my best to support the shelter staff as they do their very hard work on behalf of the community and its pets.

107. Option 3: Kennel Coach If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Kennel Coach. Just click here for the link to the Kennel Coach application.Just click here for the link to the Kennel Coach application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

108. Option 4: Hospital Helper To qualify for this position, you must first be a bark buddy and have completed 3 months and accumulated a minimum of 20 hours within the 3 months. I am comfortable around both dogs and cats and am not allergic to either, or I am comfortable that the allergy medication I take will handle any potential problems. I m OK around medical equipment and procedures. I m OK with the sights, sounds and smells of a vet clinic.

109. Option 4: Hospital Helper Seeing blood does not bother me, nor does seeing pets undergoing and recovering from surgery. I don t mind getting dirty and going home a bit smelly. I can stretch up high and bend down low, and I can climb up on a step stool as needed. I know it s important to work to my skills and interests, doing what needs to be done – from the simple (filing, cleaning cages, doing laundry) to the complex (wrapping surgical packs, helping to monitor pets in recovery).

110. Option 4: Hospital Helper I understand the importance of accuracy. I am detail oriented and can follow directions well. I enjoy being busy, even a little rushed, and don t mind if things seem a bit chaotic. I can commit to volunteering 6-8 hours/month.

111. Option 4: Hospital Helper If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Hospital Helper. Just click here for the link to the Hospital Helper application.Just click here for the link to the Hospital Helper application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

112. Option 5: Party Animal I am outgoing and friendly, enjoy talking to lots of people – even strangers - and like to help them have a good time. I can be available to help with events at odd times (the weekend, early in the morning, etc.). I know I am reliable and will be sure to show up on time on the day scheduled.

113. Option 5: Party Animal I know it s important to work to my skills and interests, doing what needs to be done – from the simple (distributing event materials, taking photographs, setting up and cleaning up) to the complex (selling tickets, soliciting donations, helping with registration). I am detail oriented and can follow directions well. I enjoy being busy, even a little rushed, and don t mind if things seem a bit chaotic.

114. Option 5: Party Animal I can commit to helping with at least 1 special event a year. If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Party Animal. Just click here for the link to the Party Animal volunteer application.Just click here for the link to the Party Animal volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

115. Option 6: Office Wizard I enjoy office tasks. While I enjoy working with others, I also don t mind if my tasks are just for me to handle by myself. I understand the importance of accuracy. I can follow directions to the letter. I know it s important to work to my skills and interests, doing what needs to be done – from the simple (helping with mailings, photocopying, assembling event materials) to the complex (database entry).

116. Option 6: Office Wizard I m OK talking to community members on the phone if I have a script to work from. I am reliable and will be sure to show up on time on the day scheduled. I can be available during the week, during regular business hours.

117. Option 6: Office Wizard If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming an Office Wizard. Just click here for the link to the Office Wizard volunteer application.Just click here for the link to the Office Wizard volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

118. Option 7: Foster Parent I would like to help special needs shelter pets by having them live temporarily in my own home. I have a room at home where I can keep SPCA foster pets separate from my own pets as needed. I will be able to give these special needs pets the time attention and/or training they require. I know that I will only be able to care for SPCA shelter pets while I am serving as an SPCA foster parent.

119. Option 7: Foster Parent I understand that the SPCA clinics will provide medical care for the foster pets at no cost to me. However, if I decide to take the foster pets to another veterinarian for medical care, I understand that I will have to pay for that myself. I understand the SPCA will give me a starter set of necessary supplies when I take my foster pet home with me. When additional supplies are needed but aren t available through the shelter, I m OK assuming financial responsibility for purchasing those supplies.

120. Option 7: Foster Parent Even though I will miss them, when the foster care time is completed, I m OK returning the pets to the shelter when requested by the Shelter Operations Manager. I know that not every pet I work with will have the happy ending of my choice, and I ll do my best to support the shelter staff as they do their very hard work on behalf of the community and its pets. I will be happy to regularly communicate with the Shelter Operations Manager about the pets in my foster care.

121. Option 7: Foster Parent If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Foster Parent. Just click here for the link to the Foster Parent application.Just click here for the link to the Foster Parent application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

122. Option 8: Pet Visitation Program (PVP) I am comfortable around both dogs and cats. I have reliable transportation and a valid driver s license. I know I will have to obtain liability insurance through a national organization such as Therapy Dogs, Inc., Delta Society, or Therapy Dogs International in order to participate in this program. My pet is at least 18 months old, is spayed/neutered, is up to date on all vaccinations, is in good health, and is well groomed.

123. Option 8: Pet Visitation Program (PVP) My dog has had basic obedience training (sit, stay, come, heel on lead). My pet is very people friendly and gets along with other animals, and is gentle with strangers. My pet and I are comfortable in all kinds of settings: schools, hospitals, long term care facilities, special events, crowds, etc. My pet and I are comfortable with people of all ages and backgrounds, including sick and/or disabled people, children and senior citizens.

124. Option 8: Pet Visitation Program (PVP) I understand that some sick and elderly people have memory problems, and I m OK reminding them who I am and why I m visiting them. I can commit to making 2 PVP visits per month to visit my designated sites.

125. Option 8: Pet Visitation Program (PVP) If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Pet Visitation Program volunteer. Just click here for the link to the PVP volunteer application. Just click here for the link to the PVP volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

126. Option 9: Creature Teachers Teaching children and adults about responsible care for pets, the environment and our agency is an important to bettering our community. I am very positive, outgoing and enjoy meeting and talking to people of all ages. I think education should be entertaining and fun as well as informative. I m not easily intimidated and can keep command of a group under most circumstances.

127. Option 9: Creature Teachers I am always prepared when working with groups, but I can also be very flexible – because nothing ever goes the way it was planned. I like to get everyone involved because talking at people is the least effective way for learning to occur. I m OK acting as a representative of the agency s policies, etc. out in the community and can easily keep my personal opinions to myself. I am aware that education programs for children are generally offered in the daytime.

128. Option 9: Creature Teachers I have reliable transportation and a valid driver s license. I am aware that I will have to pay for and complete a background check ($10). If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Creature Teacher volunteer. Just click here for the link to the Creature Teacher volunteer application.Just click here for the link to the Creature Teacher volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site Back to Volunteer Options

129. Option 10: Pet Food XPress (PFX) I have reliable transportation and a valid driver s license. I am comfortable around both dogs and cats. I am a friendly person and am able to deal with people of all ages and backgrounds. I am comfortable talking to and visiting with elderly people, even those that are living in difficult circumstances.

130. Option 10: Pet Food XPress (PFX) I am willing to visit my designated senior citizens in low income areas of Orange County. I understand that some elderly people have memory problems, and I m OK reminding them who I am and why I m visiting them. I agree to visit my designated senior citizens once each month. I agree to come to the SPCA once a month to pick up the pet food needed for delivery to my designated seniors.

131. Option 10: Pet Food XPress (PFX) I will be happy to regularly communicate with the PFX Program Manager about my visits with my designated senior. If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Pet Food Xpress volunteer. Just click here for the link to the PFX volunteer application.Just click here for the link to the PFX volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

132. Option 10: Pet Food XPress (PFX) Please note: Volunteer positions for this program may not always be available. The positions are dependent on the number of seniors enrolled in the program. Please contacct the volunteer manager to find out if volunteers are currently needed for this program. This program is only available in Orange County.

133. Option 11: Crafty Critters Here s a flexible, mostly-at-home, volunteer opportunity for creative people. Do you like to sew, knit, crochet, or do other types of crafts? The pets need volunteers who can sew hiding curtains for cat cages, knit or crochet small comfy mats to cuddle up in their cages, or make homemade toys for the dogs and cats to play with. You can work at your own pace and on your own schedule. We will provide patterns/instructions, but ask that you provide your own materials and deliver your finished products to one of our two shelters.

134. Option 11: Crafty Critters If you can say YES to all of the previous statements, then we suggest you consider becoming a Crafty Critter volunteer. Just click here for the link to the Crafty Critter volunteer application.Just click here for the link to the Crafty Critter volunteer application. If this volunteer position is not right for you, please take a look at the other volunteer options listed on this site. Back to Volunteer Options

135. Congratulations You have completed your online volunteer orientation.