Mission Viejo Animal Services HOWL (Helping Our Wildlife Locally) Volunteers provide a vital service to the community, pets and local wildlife.
Field volunteers undergo 20 hours of specialized training in animal services operations, local wildlife biology, common wildlife issues and attractants. Volunteers will also learn proper wildlife hazing and conflict mitigation techniques.
Volunteers who successfully complete field training are issued a HOWL program uniform shirt and assist with assignments that may include:
- Wildlife Patrols
- Wildlife Conflict Mitigation / Incident Canvassing
- Yard and Area Assessments
- Trail and Park Patrols
- Public Education Events
- Wildlife Rehabilitation Transport
- Disaster Response Assistance
Program Requirements:
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be enthusiastic about helping local wildlife.
- Ability to work outdoors, may include walking for extended periods of time or hiking.
- Must possess good verbal and communication skills.
- Participation in meetings, events, activities, or projects.
- Assist with emergencies.
- Participation in community projects and or events.
- Team player
Commitment:
- Field Volunteers are expected to complete a 20-hour introductory training that occurs in the evening hours.
- Volunteers are also expected to complete a minimum of 8 hours a month and attend volunteer meetings every other month.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Volunteer
Our Wildlife Rehabilitation volunteers work alongside shelter staff to support the care of orphaned, sick, or injured wildlife. This hands-on role includes preparing and administering feedings, cleaning and maintaining enclosures, and assisting with daily care at various stages of an animal’s recovery. It is a rewarding opportunity that plays a vital role in animal care, and volunteers should be comfortable supporting tasks that can be physically involved and occasionally messy.
Qualifications: Enthusiasm for wildlife care and willingness to learn animal husbandry as it applies to wildlife rehabilitation. Must be able to follow established protocols, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and handle wildlife safely.
Commitment: Weekly commitment to one or more regular shifts required. 8 hour monthly minimum.
Applications will be reviewed and an interview will be conducted for qualifying individuals.
*At this time, we are only accepting applications for wildlife rehabilitation volunteers. Click here for volunteer application.
