Spay/neuter volunteers play a crucial role in assisting with high-volume spay/neuter surgery for thousands of pets every year.

With the support of the spay/neuter team, volunteers assist with prepping cats and dogs for surgery and ensuring that the department runs efficiently.

Volunteer Environment

  • Active surgical clinic, exposure to strong smells, animal waste and potentially hazardous conditions, including the risk of animal bites.
  • Exposure to active surgery, including blood and tissue, and needles (volunteers do not administer vaccinations or help directly with surgery).

Commitment

  • Minimum of four shifts per month for one year. Returning frequently helps volunteers maintain their knowledge of the spay/neuter clinic.

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Clean and sterilize surgical instruments.
  • Wrap surgical packs for cat and dog surgeries and sterilize in the autoclave.
  • Cut and fold surgical drapes.
  • Prepare vaccinations for administration by veterinarians and vet technicians.
  • Assist with daily clinic needs such as cleaning cages, stocking supplies and doing laundry.
  • Assist with closing duties such as sweeping and mopping.

Requirements

  • Standing with frequent bending, kneeling, stooping and reaching.
  • Clothing requirements: long pants, closed-toe shoes, shirts with sleeves; volunteer T-shirt provided after 10 hours of service.
  • Willingness to work near active surgeries.

Training

  • Once you have volunteered in the shelter for at least 10 hours as a CC1 or above, complete the online training module, and then contact the Volunteer Team to schedule an in-person training.

Get Started

The first step to getting started as a volunteer at the MD SPCA is to attend a volunteer orientation. Held twice a month at the MD SPCA, the orientation will provide you with more information about volunteering and allow you to ask about our volunteer policies.
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