At Lort Smith we rely on the incredible work of volunteers who are considered the lifeblood of the organisation, which was built on the vision and commitment of some very special volunteers 85 years ago.

Head of Hospital, Dr David Cunliffe said, “Our volunteers are highly dedicated individuals who are an integral part of our organisation. They embrace our role in the community and contribute goodwill, commitment and expertise, which began with Louisa Lort Smith and a group of volunteers back in 1936.”

The organisation celebrates 85 years serving the community, now has almost 400 volunteers who are instrumental in achieving the Lort Smith mission to improve the health and happiness of animals and the people who care for them. “Our volunteers enable us to extend our mission, especially through our pet therapy, adoption hub teams and foster carers who champion the human-animal bond. Our ability to rehome so many animals each year is largely because of the work of our volunteers,” said Dr Cunliffe.

Late last year Lort Smith’s volunteers were asked about their experience of volunteering with Lort Smith. They told us just what it meant to them volunteering at Lort Smith, with 99% of volunteers finding volunteering at Lort Smith rewarding, and 98% feeling valued by Lort Smith.

We know that our volunteers are highly dedicated individuals who are an integral part of our organisation. Last year around 363 volunteers helped us by providing thousands of hours in concierge, laundry, cattery and kennels, through fostering animals, pet therapy and providing administrative support.

Thank you to our wonderful volunteers for all the hours, the blood, sweat and tears. We could not do the work we do without our amazing volunteers!