How to Work at County Animal Shelters

County animal shelters help with clearing the streets of homeless animals and finding a home for them. Most animal shelters around the United States are run by partners of the Humane Society or county agencies. Employees who work there come from different backgrounds but have a love for animals. There are a variety of positions available to help with the operation of the shelter.

• Contact your local county shelter. Call the Humane Society or perform an online search to find the nearest county shelter. After finding a local shelter, you want to find out the type of shelter, the policies and the reputation it has in the pet welfare community. Make a decision to work or volunteer. Call the local facility and ask about employment opportunities. If so, ask about the qualifications for applying for the position.


• Gain experience by volunteering. You can learn the inner workings of the shelter and build relationships by volunteering. Take advantage of the opportunity by learning the duties of different jobs. It is important build relationships and a good reputation with the staff and visitors as well. The hands on experience can help with getting a paid position.


• Take classes for animal service at a local college. Some schools offer programs for students to become veterinary technicians. Other programs available are veterinary care and animal grooming.


• Use your experience to apply for other positions. Most jobs at an animal shelter involve working directly with animals. There are other positions available, such as filing clerks, receptionist, adoption counselors, general helpers, marketing directors and humane educators. If you have a degree or experience in marketing or accounting, then you apply for a support position and help the shelter in other ways.