Pug Nation volunteers are the backbone of our organization, providing essential care and compassion to pugs in need. They play a crucial role in assisting staff, introducing adoptable dogs to the public, supporting community adoption events, and contributing to every facet of our operations. If you have a love for Pugs and a desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of homeless pugs, we warmly invite you to become part of our dedicated volunteer team. This guide addresses frequently asked questions about volunteering with Pug Nation Rescue of Los Angeles, aiming to provide clarity before you submit your application.
Getting Started with Pug Nation Volunteering
The journey to becoming a Pug Nation volunteer is straightforward and rewarding. Your first step is to complete our online volunteer application. Once your application is reviewed, you will be contacted via email with instructions to register for our mandatory new volunteer orientation. Following your attendance at this orientation, you will gain access to our online volunteer signup page, where you can begin scheduling your shifts and contributing your valuable time.
New Volunteer Orientations
Our new volunteer orientations are conducted at our facility in Gardena, California, typically on a Sunday afternoon. Each session lasts approximately 90 minutes, and we generally schedule one orientation per month. It is important to note that pre-registration is required for all orientation sessions. While we understand your eagerness to help, walk-ins are not accommodated as our sessions often reach capacity. Please ensure you register through the link provided in the email following your application submission.
Experience and Requirements
We require all prospective volunteers to attend a new volunteer orientation, regardless of prior experience with pugs or other animal organizations. This orientation is vital for familiarizing you with Pug Nation’s mission, programs, and the specific operational procedures necessary for the safety and well-being of our pugs. While formal experience is not mandatory, we do expect volunteers to be comfortable around dogs and possess a general understanding of the Pug breed. Due to the nature of the work and for the safety of our canine companions, all volunteers must be at least 16 years old and capable of working independently. We do not offer or process paper applications; all submissions must be made electronically through our website.
Community and School Service
Pug Nation Rescue of Los Angeles does not verify or sign off on community or school service hours. Our primary focus is on training and retaining long-term, committed volunteers who can provide consistent support to our mission.
Facility Access and Scheduling
After completing your orientation, you will need to sign up in advance through our online portal whenever you wish to volunteer at the facility. We accommodate a limited number of volunteers daily between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Unless specific arrangements are made, volunteers are not permitted at the facility before 12:00 PM or after 4:00 PM. It is crucial that all individuals present at the facility are registered volunteers who have signed up for a specific shift. Please refrain from bringing unregistered guests.
Beyond the Facility: Community Events
In addition to opportunities at our Gardena facility, Pug Nation participates in various community events, including regular adoption fairs at Tailwaggers in West Hollywood. These events are crucial for showcasing our adoptable pugs and require significant volunteer support. You can find information about upcoming dates and specific volunteer needs on our online signup page. We encourage volunteers to regularly check this portal to self-schedule into available shifts.
Online Volunteer Portal
Accessing our online volunteer signup page after attending an orientation is free and does not require downloading any paid applications. You can use the desktop or mobile website to view volunteer needs for the current month and sign up for shifts.
Group Volunteering Opportunities
While we are often unable to accommodate one-time volunteer groups, we do review such requests on a case-by-case basis. If your corporate or school group is interested in a potential one-time volunteer engagement, please email info@pugnationla.org to discuss possibilities and how your group might assist with current projects. Your support in any capacity makes a significant difference in the lives of these deserving pugs.
