Q. What is a volunteer?

A volunteer is someone who gives their time, skills and expertise to support us in a voluntary capacity, without financial reward. Volunteers are vital when it comes to helping us support the street animals and we’re so grateful to everyone who gives up their time.

 

Q. Can anyone be a volunteer?

A. We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds and with all kinds of experience. You need to be aged over 18 for most of our volunteer roles.

 

Q. Why should you volunteer - what are the benefits?

A. Volunteering not only helps street cats and dogs in need but also offers a wide range of benefits to those giving up their time.

It's an incredibly rewarding experience that comes from knowing you're making a real difference to the animals' lives.

The cats and dogs living on the streets or in our parks have often come from difficult backgrounds and been through a lot in their short lives. By devoting some of your time and energy to caring for them, you're making their lives better.

Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people and make new friends. When you volunteer at PAWS, you’ll meet other animal lovers and expand your social circle.

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Q. How much time do I have to commit?

A. As much or as little as you like. All we ask is that if you do make a regular commitment, you do your best to honour it or give us plenty of notice if you can't so we can make alternative arrangements. We operate a rota system for the cat and dog parks so volunteers can plan their time in advance.

 

Q. What exactly would I be doing as a volunteer?

A. That depends on your role and whether you are in the UK, Türkiye or another country.

For example, our cat and dog park volunteers will visit once or twice a week each to feed the animals, make sure there is plenty of clean water, clean up pooh, ensure there is sufficient shade or warmth and report any concerns such as illness or injury. Many of our animals love human interaction, so cuddles, fuss and playtime are always welcome.

Not all our volunteer roles mean spending time with the animals, or for you to be in the same country. Some people spend time baking or making jewellery, while others arrange and run events.

If you have time and want to get involved, or you're unsure of how you can help, please 'Contact Us' for more information.

 

Q. Do I need transport? (Türkiye) 

A. Not necessarily. Although it's useful, many of our volunteers don't. If you are helping at one of our parks, then we will try to team you up with someone who can give you a lift there and back.

However, we always need people who are prepared to use their vehicles to transport sick or injured animals.

 

Q. Will I be paid expenses?

A. No. We are a small charity entirely reliant on donations and we want every penny or lira to go directly towards the welfare of the animals. Most of our volunteers consider travel expenses etc to be an additional contribution to the charity, along with their time. In some instances we may contribute towards animal food for volunteers caring for street cats and dogs, but this is assessed on a case-by-case basis and agreed by board members.

 

Q. I'm only here on holiday. Can I still volunteer?

A. Absolutely! Just contact us when you arrive and we'll arrange to meet up and show how you can help.

 

Q. What support will I get?

A. We recognise and appreciate the selfless contributions our volunteers make towards improving the lives of our local street animals and aim to offer as much practical and emotional support as possible so they feel valued and effective. We also have strict policies and procedures in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

 

Q. How do I become a volunteer?

A. Send us a message via our ‘Contact Us’ page and someone will get back to you as soon as possible. Even if you decide it's not for you, there are other ways you can support us. We'd love to hear from you!