RSPCA Warrnambool is desperately calling for volunteers to help at its shelter, with a current shortage putting pressure on existing staff and volunteers.
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The shelter currently has about 20 volunteers but while that may seem like a lot, shelter supervisor Janita McLeod says it’s just not enough.
“Our volunteers are spread over a number of days, which means we often don’t have enough.
“It puts a lot of pressure on staff. We just have to have one person call in sick and it’s very hard to find cover,” she said.
Nearly every day is in need of more volunteers, in particular Saturdays and Sundays.
Ms McLeod said the demand for help came in waves and cited a variety of reasons why some people stop volunteering at the centre.
“Often it is university students who have to return to study, or in the summer when people feel it’s too hot to carry out tasks,” she said.
Ms McLeod said the key thing the RSPCA looked for in its volunteers was enthusiasm and keenness to help out, as well as a love for animals.
While she conceded that some tasks, such as cleaning up after the animals, were not entirely glamorous, the rewards were great.
“Where else do you get to work with cats, kittens, dogs and puppies and learn how to handle animals?” she said.
Those interested in volunteering at the RSPCA Warrnambool shelter can contact the centre on
5561 2591.
