A group of volunteers started the Providence Animal Rescue League (PARL) almost 100 years ago. Today we continue to rely on volunteers to help keep our shelter a comfortable place for the animals in our care.

Our volunteer program offers training which combines a classroom orientation with hands-on learning. The orientation teaches volunteers the League's policies and procedures and prepares them for what it means to be a PARL volunteer and representative.  It is followed by hands-on training in the assigned area(s).

We are looking for volunteers who can make a serious, 6 month commitment to the League.  We have opportunities for people with all different levels of experience and interest, including those who do not wish to work directly with the animals.

Would you like to join our team? Here's How!

Volunteers need to:

How to Become a Volunteer

 First, please submit a volunteer application. We have two separate applications, depending on your age: Adult (18+) or Junior (16-17). Once you have submitted your application, you will be contacted by our Director of Volunteer Services for an interview.  Those accepted into the volunteer program must sign a liability waiver and submit a photocopy of a photo ID and health insurance card. 

Please mail in your application or drop it off at the shelter. Faxes are often difficult to read!

We accept a limited number of new volunteers each month.   Due to the size of our shelter, we unfortunately cannot accommodate all applicants. Positions for volunteers are filled based on our current scheduling needs and positions available at the shelter. We are currently looking for adult volunteers available during weekday hours.  

Youth Volunteers

Applications for those under the age of 16 are not currently being accepted due to changes being made in our training procedures.  Youth should contact our Director of Humane Education, for information on our youth program, ARF! (the Animal Rescue Fellowship) and other ways to help from home.

Please email our Director of Volunteer Services, if you have any concerns or questions, or call 421-1399 x208.  Thank you for your interest! 

Volunteer Opportunities

Dog Walker & Trainer: (ages 18+) Walk shelter dogs and provide them with some basic obedience training.

Cat Cuddler: Provide our adoptable cats with physical interaction, love and affection.

Kennel Assistant: (ages 16+) Assist our staff with laundry, washing dishes and other routine cleaning projects.

PetSmart Cat Caretaker: Provide care and TLC for adoptable cats at the PetSmart in Warwick (weekly 2 hour shift).  Assist customers who wish to get to know the cats and facilitate adoptions.  For more information about this program click here.

Foster Caregiver: (ages 18+) Provide in-home care for injured, sick, or newborn animals, or cats or dogs that just need a break from the shelter.  There is a separate application for this position. For an application and more information click here. 

Office Assistant: This position is on an as-needed basis. Office help may include bulk mailings, filing and putting together display boards.

Special Events Assistant: Help staff fundraising events like our annual Pet Walk.

Groundskeeper: Help keep our property inviting to adopters by picking up trash, pulling weeds and sweeping our front entrance.

Public Greeter: (ages 16+) Assist our customer service staff by greeting customers and directing them to adoption areas.