Working with animals to socialise them is an important volunteer role at the RSPCA. Photo: RSPCA ACT.
With more than 300 animals currently in its care, the RSPCA has appealed for more people to become volunteers in the ACT.
CEO Michelle Robertson said volunteers were an “absolutely vital” part of the RSPCA ACT’s work.
“The more people we have that support us with volunteering, the more we can do,” she said.
The organisation’s work involves providing hands-on care for a range of cats, dogs and small animals, such as poultry and other birds – and they need some extra assistance at the moment.
“Our particular need is for kennel cleaners and dog walkers, but we need socialisers for all species – particularly for our cats and pocket pets.”
Cleaners’ duties include doing laundry and making sure the kennels are safe and sanitary, while socialisers work with the animals to help ensure proper behaviour.
These RSPCA ACT volunteer roles are in-person at its facility in Weston and require a minimum commitment of two hours per week, which can be done during the working week or on the weekend.
Shifts for cleaners run from 8:30 am to 10:30 am, while socialiser shifts run from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm.
The call has gone out following an increase in the number of animals being placed in the RSPCA’s care, Ms Robertson said.
“It’s a combination of people surrendering their animals and just animals coming in that are not owned.”
Pet owners are facing a number of pressures including rising living costs making it more difficult to afford pet care, behavioural issues in dogs adopted during COVID lockdowns, and changing circumstances making it necessary for owners to give up their animals.
Additionally, there has been a rise in the number of kittens coming in that were born during the period of warmer weather.
“As of Thursday morning, we’ve got 328 animals in our care – that is a very high number,” Ms Robertson said.
While it is hard work being a volunteer, Ms Robertson said it was rewarding.
“I have an enormous amount of admiration and so much love for our volunteers that support us.”
Becoming an RSPCA ACT volunteer brings a chance to learn about and expand on skills around animal behaviour and handling, which can be useful for people looking after their own pets.
“It’s incredibly rewarding as well, because you do change and impact the lives of animals.”
Those interested in becoming a volunteer can get in touch through the organisation’s website. RSCPA ACT is located at 12 Kirkpatrick Street, Weston ACT 2611.
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