VOLUNTEERING FOR SWGSR

Rescues always need help of some kind and we're always appreciative of offers to volunteer. Since we deal with a large, strong, active and protective breed, volunteers, particularly those under 25 years of age do not handle our dogs. Evaluations, training and socializing are done only by qualified staff members.

Given that our dogs are fostered in private homes we do not have a need to walk, feed or clean up after the dogs in our program.

Our greatest need is more foster homes; families or individuals that can provide housing and care for our dogs throughout the placement process. Sometimes, not always, it can take months to find a dog's forever home, so fosters must be prepared for the possibility of a long term commitment.

For more detailed info on fostering as well as an application, please visit the link on our home page: OUR FOSTER PROGRAM

Our other most pressing and ongoing need is for funds. Unfortunately that's what it takes to pay for veterinarian visits, lab work, shots, microchips, surgery, medications and treatment, food, toys, bedding, gas, and office supplies.

What else can I do to help?

1-TRANSPORT
We often have the need to move dogs from one city to another (Tucson, Prescott, Phoenix, etc.) or to and from vet visits. Occasionally there's a need for longer distance trips involving adjacent states. A vehicle appropriate for a large breed dog is helpful as is a crate 36-42 inches in length.

2-EVENT HELP
We don't do lots of them but when we do it involves moving equipment, setting up and breaking down and manning our booth to relieve staff members for short periods of time. Sometimes it's helpful to post promotional flyers around town announcing our events.

3-HOME VISITS
Property and home checks are a part of our adoption process. This is something that you can learn and we can train you to do with emphasis on our parameters. The need is greater in outlying areas outside of Maricopa County or even in the more newly developed areas such as Maricopa, Queen Creek, Laveen, Apache Junction, Tonopah, etc. as well as various points North.

4-BATHING & GROOMING
Sometimes when a dog is coming out of a backyard or neglectful situation or after having spent time in a public shelter, we need to get them cleaned up before they can be placed in someone's home. Generally this requires either grooming, handling or breed experience and the necessary equipment or facilities.

If you would like to volunteer with any of the above, please email us and let us know in which areas you think you would like to assist. Please tell us about yourself, your experience with dogs in general or German Shepherd Dogs in particular, your availability, previous volunteer experience if any, etc. Be sure to provide a phone contact and the best times to call. We would love to hear from you!! THANKS for thinking of us.

MINIMUM AGE FOR ALL VOLUNTEERS IS 25

PLEASE CLICK THE LINK BELOW FOR A SHORT FORM WHICH ADDRESSES SOME OF THE QUESTIONS
WE WILL LIKELY NEED TO ASK YOU. THIS FORM SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR FOSTERING...Thanks!

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

Written By Kathie Sullivan-Parkes, East Corinth, VT Until you have held a tiny puppy in your arms as it kissed your face with slobbery puppy breath and felt the love, Until you have held an injured or severely ill dog in your arms and felt their pain Until you have looked into the eyes of a tired aging senior dog and felt their wisdom, And until you have seen and understood the look in your dogs eyes that tell you their time on earth with you is over .... and you humanely let them go, You will never understand the life of a rescuer. We find beauty in the most incomprehensible places and the otherwise homely faces. It is our gift to see beyond the dirt, terror, sadness and defeat and find the true soul that lies within. We are Rescue.

I am an Animal Rescuer. My work is never done. My home is never quiet. My wallet is always empty. But my heart is always full!