Southwest Oasis Labrador Rescue is a 100%-volunteer-run organization. We rely on generous people to donate their expertise and time to save these labradors in need.
As they say, it takes a village: we have so many different ways for you to volunteer and be part of our mission.
We are always in need of more foster homes, but we also need help transporting dogs, reviewing applications, and even taking on administrative tasks.
If you have a special skill that would help, please reach out to us!
Fostering is one of the most important roles in a rescue. By opening up your home, you’re not only helping to save lives, you’re providing the individual attention and love these dogs desperately need.
Southwest Oasis Labrador Rescue does not have a physical shelter and boarding all of our dogs would be too costly, limiting our ability to provide extensive medical to some of our most vulnerable dogs. This means that the number of dogs we can rescue is directly impacted by the number of foster families we have.
Foster homes provide care for the dogs, a safe place to sleep, a few meals a day, exercise and lots of love. You may need to provide transportation to and from veterinary appointments or Meet and Greet events. Part of being a foster is learning about your foster dog and helping them find the right home. Although fostering can be a lot of work, it is a very rewarding experience.
For those who have other pets, they need to be up-to-date on vaccines (Rabies, Bordatella, and DAAP) and be spayed or neutered.
Being part of the Home Visit Team helps our dogs find the right family, and a family looking to adopt the right dog. It's a win - win!
Home Visit Volunteers are critical for our dogs finding the right home. Each dog has a unique personality and needs. Our Fosters help identify what our our dogs need, but it is our house check team that helps adopters clarify what traits they want or need. Do they want a running partner or a couch potato? Are the up for fully training a puppy including house training, or do they want an older dog that is a bit more seasoned with their social graces? All of these and so much more are important to helping our dogs find a successful match for their new home.
As part of the Home Visit Team you will review an application and set up time to go to the applicants home when everyone is home. Here you will meet with them and help gather information for SOLR to determine whether the applicants can provide a great home for our dogs, and what type of dog are they looking to adopt.
Transporters are an essential part of each lab's rescue journey! By providing your time and a safe ride, you are often helping a lab find its way to its foster home or a much-needed veterinary appointment.
Transport happen seven-days-a-week. They range from local trips in the Phoenix and Tucson-areas to longer rides as we bring in labradors in need throughout the Southwest.
You only have to commit to the specific transport that works for your schedule!
You'll need a reliable vehicle that can fit lovable labs (often 60 to 100 pounds in weight), time, fuel, and a valid driver's license.
A crate can be useful to keep your travel companion safe during a drive, especially if they are fearful or are the type to assist!
You will also need a slip leash, collar, and SOLR tags, which the rescue can provide.
We are always looking for volunteers who are experienced professionals that are willing to volunteer their time to help support Southwest Oasis Labrador Rescue.
If you have experience in web and/or social media management, data entry, photography, special event planning, non-for-profit fundraising, or other professional services that you are willing to volunteer your time for, please contact SOLR at southwestoasislabrescue@gmail.com to get involved.
