Volunteer at an Animal Shelter

I have volunteered here in Australia at the RSPCA, they did just assign me on the morning to wherever they need the most help. It is the most satisfying thing to do, going home knowing that animals got fed, walked, talked and played with today. Although there is a sad side to it, which made me give it (the euthanising) on a daily basis. I cried every day. That part was horrible

At our local shelter the dogs and cats are kept in two separate buildings, so you would be able to help with just one of the other. I don't know what your local shelter is like. Of course, working in a shelter might help you overcome your fear. Small dogs are no bigger than a cat and the same is true of puppies; if the size is what makes you afraid. No one says you have to love dogs; but, it would be smart to try to overcome your fear; since animals can sense it and with as many dogs as there are around you could find one anywhere and anyplace.

I think Volunteering at a shelter would be good for you, and I am sure if you explains your fear of dogs, they would help you find other things you could try, or help you start out working with very social animals, and learning how to understand them better. - DNatureofDTrain

I think you can choose which type of animal you prefer to work with. Perhaps it would be better for you though to volunteer with a rescue group instead. There are probably groups near you who only work with cats. Look on petfinder.com for cats in your area and then contact the group who has listed them to see if they need any help. More often than not they do. More people are aware of shelters, so they tend to get more volunteers, while the private rescue groups are often in need of a few extra hands.

My son volunteers at our local animal shelter. He has to have volunteer hours to stay a member of the high school honor society. He was able to choose what he wanted to do, but they also suggest other things too. I'm sure they wouldn't make you work with the dogs if you just told them of your fear. My son 'socializes' the cats and dogs by holding, walking, petting them. He helps clean cages, feed, and answer the phone. He really enjoys it, as I'm sure you would! You are to be commended for your desire to help the shelter!

We dont have an animal shelter in our county. I volunteer taking care of needy families. If you are afraid of dogs, you may be stressed out the whole time you are there. Let us know how you like it if you do volunteer