Cats Volunteer Role

About us

Pawz for Thought is a charity based in Sunderland that helps animals in need across the North East. Since our beginning in 2003 we have grown and are now a very busy charity, helping thousands of animals each year. The animals we help include companion animals such as cats, rabbits, birds and other animals, as well as a huge range of wildlife. Our incredible volunteers support everything we do: animal rescue and transport; animal care; cleaning; admin and reception; fundraising and events; fostering and rehoming.

We are an entirely volunteer-run organisation and therefore are always looking for volunteers to support us in a range of roles.

The role

We are currently looking for volunteers to support with the care of cats at our Sunderland rescue in North Hylton. It may also include supporting with trapping, scanning and collection of cats. This will be a varied role and busy role and we are looking for morning and afternoon/evening volunteers. It is important that all volunteers represent Pawz in a friendly and professional manner.

Main tasks and activities

Morning

• Cleaning out pens.
• Cleaning out cages, including litter trays.
• Emptying, cleaning and refilling water and food bowls.
• Removing and replacing with clean bedding and washing and drying dirty bedding.
• Sweeping floors and generally tidying and cleaning.
• Putting away any donations and unused equipment.
• Where necessary, filling out appropriate paperwork.
• Reporting any concerns to more experienced volunteers where necessary.

Afternoon

• Giving fresh food and water.
• Scooping litter trays.
• Any necessary cleaning.
• Tidying and putting away donations.

Other

There may be opportunities for other tasks such as helping to trap stray cats, scanning cats for chips or collecting cats to bring to Pawz.

Relevant skills

• An interest and/or passion for wildlife and animals.
• Experience of animal care would be brilliant, but not necessary.
• Comfortable working around cats and playing with them/giving them attention where appropriate (it’s important to note not all of our cats are friendly!)
• Experience of or a willingness to adhere to organisational policies and procedures.
• Ability to work independently and use your initiative, as things can often be very busy.
• Attention to detail.
• Punctual, reliable and trustworthy.
• Ability to work well in a team.
• Strong listening skills.
• Ability to be flexible, resilient and able to problem-solve.
• Non-judgmental, open minded and empathetic attitude.
• Ideally, volunteers will be able to give a half day or day each week.

What this role can offer volunteers

• Induction and support.
• Opportunity to develop and utilise your skills and experience.
• Gain valuable experience for those seeking a career in animal care or veterinary medicine or in wildlife organisations.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Being part of a team and supporting the organisation.
• The chance to play a vital part in helping animals.

If you would like to apply for this role, or to have a conversation about it, please get in touch at volunteering@pawzforthought.org