Internship Program
Peninsula Humane Society & SPCA Internship Program provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in a fast paced shelter environment. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate your understanding and knowledge of care for domestic animals and wildlife.
Requirements for PHS/SPCA internships, including duration and hours per week, vary by internship program and can be found in the descriptions below. Upon successful completion of an internship, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion and Letter of Recommendation. Internships are unpaid volunteer positions, and submitting an application does not guarantee inclusion in the program.
General Requirements
- Minimum of 18 years of age and a high school graduate
- Passion for animal welfare
- Familiarity with PC use, including Microsoft Office programs
- Ability to comprehend and follow written and/or verbal instructions
- Ability to bend, stoop, squat, reach, and push moderately heavy objects
- Ability to handle multiple tasks and work well under pressure
- No allergic conditions which would be aggravated by animals in our care
- Ability to work with chemicals such as bleach and Triple Two
- Ability to commit to a three-month internship with no vacation time
Behavior & Training Department
Behavior & Training Department
(Behavior Training Internship)
This is a hands on behavior and training internship where you will work with trainers during public training classes and assist with the preparation of the training site, working one-on-one with dogs, leading classes and assisting with consultations. There are clerical duties associated with this internship. Some prior experience in behavior required.
Time frame: 12 weeks, 20 hours per week
- Semester 1: TBD
Requirements Specific to Behavior Training Internship: Behavior Position Description
- Ability to work with dogs using positive reinforcement methodologies only
- Good physical stamina
- Ability to follow exact instructions and work independently
- Perform the job in a professional manner and work efficiently
- Demonstrate a friendly, open demeanor
- Highly motivated toward the welfare and humane treatment of animals
- Ability to handle stressful situations like euthanasia
- Must be at least 18 years of age
Wildlife Care Center
This is a unique and rewarding opportunity as a volunteer Wildlife Rehabilitation Intern to learn the care and feeding of wildlife and basic husbandry skills. In addition to hands on experience, interns will receive bi-weekly educational topics for review in discussion groups. All interns must be available for Saturday Discussion Groups. A final exit examination is required upon completion of the program. Click here to see the Wildlife Internship flyer.
Time frame: 12-week semesters, 8 hours per day, 3 days per week (24 hour per week total)
- Term 1: April 28 to July 21
- Term 2: May 19 to August 11
- Term 3: June 2 to August 25
- Term 4: July 7 to September 29
Requirements Specific to Wildlife Care Internship: Wildlife Position Description
- Ability to lift and move objects and animals weighing up to 50 pounds for short distance
- Ability to bend, stoop, squat, reach, and push moderately heavy objects
- Ability to work with chemicals such as chlorhexidine and synphenol
- Applicant must have a valid driver’s license with a clean driving history
- Ability to follow exact instructions and work independently
- Must not be squeamish about preparing meals which may include live meal worms and dead mice