Calling All Dog Lovers - Become a TEARS Kennel Volunteer

The best times are often the simplest ones and they usually don't come with a plan beyond showing up on time. Kennel volunteering at TEARS Animal Rescue is like that and right now, they're looking for people to give a few hours of their time to the rescue dogs.

These doggos wait all week for a kind soul to show up and take them for a much-needed outing to stretch their legs and shower them with pats, belly rubs and love. No need to dress up for the occasion. In fact, they recommend wearing clothes that can withstand muddy paws.

It's also best not to arrive grumpy but even if you do it won't be long before you're on top of the world and already looking forward to your next visit.

What does a kennel volunteer actually do?

It's less complicated than you might imagine. Kennel volunteers help with:

• Dog walking — getting rescue dogs and puppies out of their kennels and into some fresh air
• Enrichment activities — play, basic training and socialisation that makes a real difference to how adoptable a dog is
• Puppy Hour — a dedicated weekly session (Sundays, 10–11am) for extra cuddles and play with TEARS' littlest charges

None of it requires special training at the outset. TEARS gets you ready with an orientation before you start. After that, it's all about showing up consistently for the dogs.

Why this is worth your time

Volunteering at the kennels isn't a huge ask — think an hour or two once a week. And the payoff is immediate. A dog that was anxious an hour ago might be relaxed and wagging its tail by the time you leave. You'll meet other people who care about the same things you do. And unlike a lot of "good deeds," this one doesn't ask you to overhaul your schedule. TEARS is ideally looking for volunteers who can commit to around 4 hours a month, which is doable even for the busiest of people once you're in a rhythm.

Sign up with a friend and make it your weekly catch-up — spending time together while doing meaningful, impactful work for animals and your community.

What TEARS is looking for

You don't need experience with dogs, just a willingness to learn and keep coming back. Long-term volunteers make a bigger difference than you might think. The dogs get used to familiar faces and that familiarity helps them settle in and become ready for adoption faster.

Before you can walk dogs, there's an orientation that runs over two Saturdays. Volunteers need to be 16 or older, with a parent or guardian along for anyone between 16 and 18. From 18, you're free to volunteer solo. Spaces are limited, so fill in the form on https://tears.org.za/get-involved/volunteer-at-tears/ and TEARS volunteer team will be in contact with you!

Ready to get started?

If you've got a few hours a month and a soft spot for dogs, TEARS would love to hear from you. Fill in the form on https://tears.org.za/get-involved/volunteer-at-tears/.