Ready for Hands-On Volunteer Training?
You’ve watched the video, passed the quiz, and now it’s time for the fun part. Hands-On Training is the final step before you begin volunteering with our animals!
Hands-On Training Details
Length: 40 minutes to 1 hour
With: SPCA Staff
What You’ll Do:
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Learn how to log into the volunteer computer
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Review and refresh what you learned in the training video
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Meet our cats and walk an advanced dog as a group
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Walk your very first dog on your own
Please arrive 5–10 minutes early. Training begins promptly at the scheduled time.
Dress for the Weather
About 20 minutes of training takes place outdoors with the dogs. We train in light rain, snow, and cold, so please dress accordingly. Boots are recommended (we may be standing in snow), along with a warm coat, gloves, and layers in winter. Snow pants are welcome if needed.
Training will be canceled in cases of moderate to heavy rain, flooded grounds, snowstorms, or severe weather. If canceled, you’ll be asked to reschedule for another day.
Volunteers with Minors
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Minors must be 8 years or older
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Minors must attend training with a guardian until age 16
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Minors should watch the orientation video (quiz not required)
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Minors may attend training without being signed up separately
Sign up here:
New Volunteer Hands-On Training (Step 3 of 3) | SPCA of Southwest Michigan
If you don’t yet have a volunteer profile, please create one and mark “Yes” under qualifications for watching the video and passing the quiz. Training times are updated monthly, so if the current dates don’t work, be sure to check back.
Optional: Help Kick Off Your Volunteer Journey with a Gift
Many new volunteers choose to bring a small donation to their training session to support the animals they’ll soon be helping. While never required, every gift makes a difference. One can of food equals one meal for an animal in our care.
Our Current Top Needs:
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BIGGEST NEED: Pet-safe sidewalk salt/ice melt
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Dry cat food (any size or brand)
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Cat litter
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Dog treats (all kinds welcome, soft chews most needed)
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Hard, long-lasting chew bones (especially large sizes)
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Dish soap (any brand)
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Gift cards (Meijer, Menards, Walmart, PetSmart)
The SPCA does not receive government funding. Every donation and volunteer hour comes from our amazing community. Thank you for helping us make tails wag and purrs happen!
