Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to frequently asked questions about the Loving Spay+Neuter Clinic
My pet is already spayed or neutered. Can I take advantage of your other services?
No, The Loving Spay + Neuter Clinic is not a full service veterinary office and can only provide vaccinations, tests, and microchips when the spay or neuter surgery is performed.
Answers to frequently asked questions about surrendering an animal to RAL
"I found a stray animal, can you take it?"
Unfortunately the answer is maybe. We are constantly at our limit of shelter space and foster homes, so we have to turn some animals away. If you have found a stray animal or need to find a new home for your pet, please try these steps before contacting us. what to do with a found animal
Answers to frequently asked questions about the RAL Volunteer Program.
What days and times do volunteers work?
There are opportunities at RAL for individuals with all different types of availability. Generally, we ask volunteers to commit to atleast 3 months on a weekly or bi-weekly basis.
What kind of volunteer opportunities are available at Richmond Animal League?
There are opportunities to clean cat and dog cages, walk dogs, socialize both cats and dogs and take our animals to Petsmart and other off-site adoption events. Volunteers 18 and up can serve as Adoption Counselors, assisting visitors with the exciting process of picking out a new member of their family! Please see more detailed information on RAL volunteer positions here
What are the age requirements to volunteer at RAL?
Potential volunteers must be at least 14 years old to volunteer at the shelter alone. Students ages 11 to 13 may volunteer with a parent or guardian. All applications received from 11 to 13 year olds must be accompanied by an adult volunteer application or it cannot be considered for a volunteer spot.
Can I volunteer to fulfill community service hours?
Sure! If your community service hours are court ordered, we will need to ask what the offense was. We do not allow individuals who have violent offenses including animal abandonment or neglect on their records to volunteer at RAL. When planning to complete your hours, please keep in mind that you will generally only get 3 to 4 hours a week of volunteer time when working at RAL. We cannot usually accommodate individuals who need a lot of hours in a short period of time.
My family member/friend already volunteers—will I be able to come with them?
Possibly. We will do our best to put you on the same volunteer shift as your friend or relative but may not necessarily have space on all shifts. Please make a note on your volunteer application with the name of the person you would like to volunteer with.
I’ve already submitted my application—how long will it be until I can start volunteering?
It depends. Because of space constraints, some of our volunteer shifts may have a wait list. Please be patient and know that we will contact you as soon as a spot opens up that matches the availability you placed on your application.
Can I volunteer at RAL for a short period of time?
Generally, we ask all of our volunteers to commit to atleast 3 months. Unless a special case arises, we usually do not have short term volunteer opportunities available.
I am allergic to cats—can I just work with dogs?
Yes, but please keep in mind that even when working with our dogs you will have some exposure to cats in the lobby and common areas such as the kitchen and bathroom.
Do you have other volunteer opportunities besides working directly with the animals?
Occasionally we do have office work and other varying opportunities for volunteers. If you have a special skill you would like to share with us, please make sure to mention it on your volunteer application.
