Farm Animal Sanctuary Care Team

Volunteer Animal Caregiver (3-Month Commitment Required)

Sisu Refuge is a nonprofit farm-animal sanctuary caring for more than 100 rescued animals, including pigs, cows, goats, chickens, ducks, and other farmed species. We are seeking dedicated Animal Care Volunteers to support the daily care and wellbeing of our residents.

This is a hands-on, physically demanding, outdoor volunteer role best suited for individuals who are dependable, observant, and committed to showing up consistently for the animals who rely on routine and familiarity.

Because proper training and animal safety require time and continuity, we ask for a minimum 3-month commitment with at least two shifts per week before advanced training is provided.

What You’ll Do

• Assist with daily animal care, including feeding, watering, cleaning barns and enclosures, grooming, and enrichment preparation
• Open and close barns and coops based on weather and animal needs
• Support routine health checks and monitor animals for changes in behavior or condition
• Help maintain clean, safe living spaces, bedding, and water sources
• Restock and organize animal care supplies
• Assist with record keeping and basic documentation
• Support sanctuary events, tours, and occasional rescue intakes as needed
• Work closely with staff and fellow volunteers to ensure consistent, high-quality care

Farm and sanctuary work varies by season and animal needs—no two days are exactly the same.

Volunteer Commitment & Schedule

• Minimum commitment: 3 months
• Availability: At least 2 shifts per week
• Shifts: Typically 6–8 hours
• Weekdays and/or weekends available
• Consistency is essential to ensure animal safety and wellbeing

What We’re Looking For

• Prior experience with animals is helpful but not required (farmed animal experience is a plus)
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong observation skills and willingness to learn
• Comfortable performing physical labor and working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Able to lift 50 lbs consistently
• Follows instructions carefully and communicates clearly
• Reliable transportation required

Training & Growth

• Initial orientation and working interview
• Progressive training based on commitment, consistency, and demonstrated readiness
• Volunteers who complete the commitment and demonstrate strong skills may be eligible for:
  • Advanced animal care training
  • Increased responsibility
  • Consideration for future paid or intern roles (when available)

Why Commitment Matters

Our animals come from backgrounds of neglect, trauma, and instability. Consistency and routine are critical to their healing. We invest significant time in training volunteers, and this commitment helps ensure that effort directly benefits the animals in our care.

About Sisu Refuge

Founded in 2019, Sisu Refuge provides lifelong sanctuary to farmed animals rescued from neglect, abuse, abandonment, and disaster situations. We encourage applicants to familiarize themselves with our work and daily environment by visiting us on Facebook or Instagram before applying.