-
How old do you need to be to volunteer at PetSmart?
My teenager has a lot of free time this summer, and frankly, I’d rather they weren’t just glued to their phone. We’ve been talking about giving back to the community, and they love animals. PetSmart is right near our house and seems like it could be a good, supervised environment. I was just wondering what their age policy is for volunteers before I suggest it as an option. Any insights?
-
1 Reply
-
PetSmart itself does not directly run a widespread, corporate-managed volunteer program for its stores in the same way an animal shelter might. Instead, PetSmart partners with thousands of local animal welfare organizations (like humane societies and rescue groups) that host adoption centers within PetSmart stores. Therefore, the volunteer opportunities and age requirements are typically set by these partner organizations, not by PetSmart directly.
Key Considerations for Age Requirements:
-
General Rule (Working Independently):
-
Most animal welfare organizations require volunteers to be 18 years or older to volunteer independently, especially for roles involving direct animal handling or working at off-site adoption centers like those in PetSmart stores. This is often due to liability, safety, and training reasons.
- Younger Volunteers (With Supervision):
-
Ages 12-17 (or similar ranges like 16-17): Many organizations allow teenagers in this age group to volunteer, but ONLY if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is also a registered volunteer and present with them at all times during their volunteer shifts. The specific starting age (e.g., 12, 14, or 16) can vary.
-
Parent/Guardian Responsibility: The accompanying adult is usually responsible for the direct supervision of the minor volunteer.
-
Limited Roles: Younger volunteers, even when supervised, might have restrictions on the types of tasks they can perform (e.g., they might focus on cleaning, socialization in controlled environments, or helping with supplies rather than direct animal handling of all animals).
Variations by Location and Partner Organization:
-
It’s crucial to understand that these are general guidelines. The specific age requirements can differ significantly from one PetSmart location to another because it depends entirely on the policies of the particular rescue group or shelter that operates the adoption center there.
-
Some organizations may have stricter age limits due to insurance policies or the nature of the animals they care for.
-
A few organizations might have specific “junior volunteer” programs with different age brackets and requirements.
How to Find Out the Specific Requirements:
-
Identify the Partner Organization: Visit your local PetSmart store and look for signage at the in-store adoption center. This will usually indicate which animal welfare group(s) they partner with.
-
Visit the Partner Organization’s Website: Once you know the name of the local shelter or rescue group, go to their official website. They will almost always have a “Volunteer” section that details their programs, age requirements, application process, and any orientation or training needed.
-
Contact the Partner Organization Directly: If the information isn’t clear online, find the volunteer coordinator’s contact information (email or phone number) on the organization’s website and reach out to them.
-
Inquire at the PetSmart Store (Less Direct): While PetSmart employees might be able to tell you which organization they partner with, they likely won’t know the specifics of the volunteer policies. It’s always best to go directly to the source—the animal welfare group.
Common Volunteer Tasks (which may have age restrictions):
-
Cleaning kennels and habitats
-
Socializing animals (e.g., petting cats, playing with dogs in designated areas)
-
Assisting with adoption events (greeting potential adopters, providing information)
-
Laundry and dishwashing
-
Restocking supplies
Always be prepared to go through an application process, attend an orientation, and possibly undergo specific training before starting to volunteer.
-
Return to Community Return to Forums
Log in to reply.
