If you’re a dog lover in the Atlanta area looking for a meaningful way to give back, there’s no better opportunity than becoming a volunteer dog walker at PAWS Atlanta. This beloved no-kill animal shelter has been serving the community since 1966. Their dedicated volunteers are the backbone of their mission to provide loving care and second chances to homeless pets. With an upcoming volunteer orientation scheduled for May 31, now is the perfect time to learn more. Become a volunteer dog walker with PAWS Atlanta and make a real impact, for both the dogs and yourself!
What is a Volunteer Dog Walker?
Shelter life can be stressful and lonely for dogs, no matter how caring the staff and environment. That’s where volunteer dog walkers come in. By spending time with the dogs, taking them for walks around the shelter grounds, and giving them one-on-one attention, volunteers provide much-needed exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization. These outings help dogs burn off energy, reduce anxiety, and learn important leash manners and social skills, making them more adoptable and better prepared for life in a forever home.
What are the Benefits for Volunteers?
While the dogs benefit enormously, volunteering as a dog walker is also incredibly rewarding for people. Here’s how:
Physical Exercise
Walking dogs is a fantastic way to stay active, get outside, and enjoy Atlanta’s beautiful scenery. Whether you’re looking to add more steps to your day or just want a fun way to move, dog walking is a win-win.
Stress Relief
Spending time with animals has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and boost mood. The unconditional love and joy dogs bring can be a powerful antidote to a hectic day or week.
Social Connection
Volunteering at PAWS Atlanta is a great way to meet fellow animal lovers and make new friends. You’ll become part of a supportive, passionate community working together for a common cause.
Skill Building
You’ll gain hands-on experience in animal care, learn about dog behavior, and develop valuable skills that can be applied in many areas of life.
Community Service
As an active volunteer, you will be recognized for your ongoing efforts, which may help you professionally when applying for higher education, leadership positions, and more.
Get Started
If you’re interested in joining the PAWS Atlanta volunteer team, the first step is to attend the upcoming Volunteer Orientation on May 31. During this session, you’ll learn about the shelter’s mission, get an overview of volunteer roles, and receive training on dog walking safety and best practices. You’ll also have a chance to tour the facility, meet some of the adoptable dogs, and connect with current volunteers and staff.
The orientation is designed to ensure that every volunteer feels confident, prepared, and supported as they begin their journey with PAWS Atlanta. After completing orientation, you’ll be able to sign up for dog walking shifts that fit your schedule—whether you can commit to a regular weekly visit or just want to help out when you can.
Register here.
Make a Difference
Volunteering as a dog walker at PAWS Atlanta is more than just a good deed. It’s a chance to change lives, one walk at a time. You’ll help dogs find comfort and joy while they wait for their forever families, and you’ll discover the unique happiness that comes from giving back. Don’t miss the orientation on May 31st; your new four-legged friends are waiting! Visit PAWS Atlanta’s website to sign up and start your volunteer journey today.
The Best Dog Walkers in Atlanta
Buckhead Pet Pals offers dog walking and dog sitting services – as well as cat sitting and care for other species. We proudly serve Atlanta, Buckhead, Sandy Spring, Marietta, and Dunwoody. Our dog walkers are not volunteers, they are professionals and they care for your pets when you can’t be there.
Learn more about our onboarding process and scheduling software/app here. We welcome your questions and comments via phone at 404-303-0312 or email at office@buckheadpetpals.com.
If you’d like to learn more about what it takes to work with Buckhead Pet Pals, check out our jobs page.
Existing clients, please request dog walking services here.
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