FAQs

Why does PDSA involve volunteers?

Volunteers bring their time, skills, experience and energy to PDSA helping staff in our shops, fundraising, offices and PetAid hospitals.

Last year, volunteers saved PDSA £10.3 million. This huge saving in employment costs was clocked up by 1.25 million hours put in by more than 4,800 volunteers. Every penny PDSA saves goes towards helping pets in need of vets – and in return, we recognise every volunteer’s valuable contribution.
 

What will PDSA do for me?

PDSA wants you to enjoy volunteering - you give us so much, it’s only right we return the compliment! PDSA works hard to match you with the right voluntary role - to make sure you gain the maximum benefit from helping us and we will make the best use of your skills and interests. PDSA offers excellent training and support for its volunteers and can supply references to future employers if needed.
 

How much time do I have to commit to?

For most roles the days and hours can be arranged to suit you. PDSA likes a regular commitment if possible as it helps to plan rotas etc but we can always be flexible. In our shops our volunteers usually help for a half, or a full day at a time, while in fundraising the hours are dependant on the events being planned, but are usually in the evenings and at weekends.
 

Will I need to provide references?

PDSA requires all volunteers to provide the names of two referees. As a charity dependent on the generosity of the public, we have an obligation to protect the money and goods so kindly donated, as well as the safety of our staff and other volunteers. This is standard practice amongst charities and all voluntary placements are dependent upon these references being satisfactory. Referees can be: someone who holds a position of responsibility in the community, a previous employer or a long standing friend.

Can I claim my expenses?

Yes, PDSA believes volunteers should not be out of pocket through volunteering so will reimburse agreed expenses (usually travel costs) in line with our Volunteer Expenses Policy

Will I be able to work hands on with animals?

There are very few volunteering opportunities within our PetAid hospitals as the animals we treat are sick or injured and therefore need the care of professionally trained vets and nurses. As all our animal patients are domestic pets, they have their own worried owners, so as soon as they are well enough they return home to be looked after. We therefore do not have volunteering opportunities for fostering, dog walking, etc.

However, occasionally there are vacancies for the following:

• Groundskeepers who look after the small gardens and car parks at PetAid hospitals 
• Receptionist/telephonists who help with enquiries, appointments and so on 
• General assistants who help the nursing staff with the cleaning of kennels, consulting rooms, operating theatres, sterilising equipment etc.

You can find details of local vacancies at the volunteer vacancy search.