The safety and wellbeing of our animals, volunteers, and staff are our highest priorities. To ensure every volunteer has the support, guidance, and oversight they need, DogtownSA operates on a Buddy System. Every volunteer is paired with a designated caregiver and assigned to a specific area for each volunteer session.

Your assigned caregiver is your primary point of contact and is responsible for:

• Guiding and supporting you during your volunteer session
• Allocating tasks and dogs appropriate to your experience level
• Answering questions and addressing concerns
• Providing direction regarding daily shelter activities and routines

While volunteers may progress through the various levels of the program, all volunteers remain part of the DogtownSA Buddy System and are expected to work in partnership with their assigned caregiver.

All volunteers, regardless of level, are required to follow the direction of their assigned caregiver, Volunteer Co-ordinator, the Shelter Manager, and other designated DogtownSA staff members at all times.

The first step of your volunteer journey is to apply either through the form above or email volunteer@dogtownsa.org.

If you choose to work with our dogs in the centre, you will have to commit to a volunteer shift so we can make sure our dogs’ needs are met.

Volunteers under the age of 14 are not permitted to volunteer at DogtownSA.

Volunteers aged 14 to 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times (one adult per minor).

At Dogtown, we have three volunteer levels, each offering unique ways to support our mission. We encourage volunteers to progress through the levels as they gain experience, helping them learn more, grow their skills, and make an even greater impact on the lives of our dogs and cats. All volunteers begin at Level 1.

Level 1: 

• During this stage you may:
• Spend time socialising with dogs
• Observe social walks
• Assist with cleaning and raking
• Help with basic maintenance projects such as painting
• Assist with behaviour generalisation exercises
• Level 1 volunteers will always be partnered with an experienced caregiver who will provide guidance and supervision.

Level 2

• Once you have progressed to Level 2, you may:
• Perform all Level 1 duties
• Walk dogs approved by your caregiver, alongide the caregiver (buddy-walking system)
• Assist with basic training exercises
• Assist with grooming and bathing
• Level 2 volunteers continue to be partnered with a caregiver who will provide support, guidance, and task allocation.

Level 3 

• A-Team volunteers are experienced volunteer leaders who may:
• Work more independently within designated areas
• Assist with mentoring and supporting Level 1 and Level 2 volunteers
• Support caregivers with daily activities and volunteer management
• Although A-Team volunteers are trusted leaders within the volunteer program, they remain part of the Dogtown Buddy System.

All Level 2 and Level 3 volunteers may attend our IMDT 1-Day workshops free of charge.

These workshops are an invaluable opportunity to learn more about dog behaviour, training, welfare, and handling.

To book your seat, please email: info@imdt.co.za

To view upcoming courses, visit: www.imdt.co.za

Please Bring:

• Cold water / A snack or light meal

Please Wear:

• Comfortable closed shoes suitable for rocky terrain
• Clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
• A hat and sunscreen

Monday – Sunday –  Including Public Holidays

AM Session: 09:00 – 12:30

PM Session: 13:30 – 15:00

All volunteers must book at least 1 day in advance.

We would love to tell you more about our volunteering program, you can email, call or WhatsApp us.

Email volunteer@dogtownsa.org

Whatsapp: 073-092-7800

Every volunteer will receive a comprehensive orientation document when they book. It contains all the information needed to volunteer safely, including our safety rules, procedures, and protocols.