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 native wildlife.   Behavior Internships are located at the Burlingame shelter and Wildlife Care Internships are located at the Saratoga shelter (opening spring 2024).

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 applying does not guarantee acceptance in the program.

Puppies

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: FULL

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 Friday Discussion Groups.  A final exit examination is required upon completion of the program.

2025 Internship Terms

  • Term 1: May 16 to August 8 (FULL)
  • Term 2:  June 6 to August 29 (FULL)
  • Term 3: July 4 to September 26 (FULL)

Time frame:  12-week semesters, 8 hours per day, 3 days per week (24 hour per week total)

Requirements Specific to Wildlife Care Internship: Wildlife Position Description

  • 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.
  • 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.
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