Volunteer Opportunity: Do You Speak "Equine"? We Need You!
ORGANIZATION: Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary
Please visit the new page to apply.

Are you obsessed with all things four-legged and hoofed? Does the sound of a horse's whinny send your heart racing with joy? Well, saddle up because we've got a volunteer gig that’s right up your alley! We're seeking passionate, experienced equine enthusiasts to join our team and provide top-notch care to our adorable, lovable, and sometimes sassy herd of mini horses, ponies, donkeys, and the ever-so-feral mini mule (who, trust us, will do absolutely nothing for you... unless you bring her a snack).
Here’s what you’ll be wrangling:
- Full size horses-Regal, snooty, and always looking "Whats In It For Me" angle.
- Mini horses - Cute, friendly, and excellent at posing for selfies.
- Welsh pony - He’s like the gentle giant of the bunch.
- Opinionated donkeys - They have a lot to say, but none of it is ever what you want to hear.
- Mini mule - Feral, fabulous, and frankly uninterested in your efforts.
What We Need From You (besides an endless supply of patience):
- Exercise: You’ll help get these critters moving and grooving (but don't expect them to start running marathons).
- Grooming: Because who doesn't love a good spa day?
- Cleaning: Hoof the dirt, muck the stalls-keeping things neat and tidy is part of the charm.
- Feed prep: Munchies! We provide the horses with the finest hay and oats, but you'll do the dishing out.
- Tack management: Saddles, harnesses, and all the fun equine accessories.
Requirements (a.k.a. the fine print):
- Must be able to make a 6-month commitment (these horses don’t just want anyone showing up for a day and then ghosting).
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs, because hay bales are heavy and the ponies refuse to do it for you.
- Must be able to walk long distances (equines like to roam, so keep those shoes comfortable!).
- Must be willing to work in the elements-snow, rain, or sunshine, these animals expect their care regardless of the forecast.
- Reliable transportation: Can’t rely on your horse-drawn carriage (unless that’s your mode of transport-we’re into it).
- Applicants 18 and older must pass a background check-no shady business around these barnyard beauties!
Perks of the job?
- Shifts: 2-hour shifts, morning or afternoon-you choose when to mingle with the ponies!
- Work with adorable equines (minus the mule, who’s too cool for that).
- Perfect for equine lovers who want to spend their time with animals that are much better at giving you side-eye than actual work.
So, are you ready to make some new hoofed friends and become part of our ever-growing equine family? Apply now and get ready for a barn full of fun!
Equine Caregivers report to the Equine Herd Manager. If you don’t know what that means, don’t worry-the animals do.
1 Shift
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08:00 AM to 05:00 PM PST
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FULL
A two-hour shift is available anytime between 8:00am and 5:00pm, 7 days a week.
8 More opportunities with Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary
Opportunities
About Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary
Location:
12020 123rd Ave SE, Rainier, WA 98576, US
Mission Statement
Our goal is to rescue, rehabilitate farm animals and to educate and inspire the public about their care and welfare. We provide a lifelong sanctuary for our adopted animals with veterinary care, proper feeding, environment enrichment and love. At the same time giving people who might not have had contact with farm animals a hand on experience. We offer learning programs for children and teens, helping them to connect and build emotional and mental well-being through the human- animal bond. You can directly apply at https://www.volgistics.com/ex/portal.dll/ap?AP=1043099842
Description
Black Dawg Farm and Sanctuary started in 2014 with two horses from the kill pen, it has since grown and evolved from there. We are located in Rainier, Washington on 10 beautiful acres of farmland nestled in Thurston County. We are a farm animal sanctuary that provides a lifelong home to the animals in residence.
We do not adopt out any animals.
Many of the animals are not considered adoptable due to age, nature of injuries, psychological and emotional trauma. This is their last chance for a home, where they are loved, cared for and are allowed to be happy individuals.
We receive the animals through other animal rescue agencies, the sheriff's department, abandonment and owners that are no longer able to care for their animals.
We are making a difference in the community through education and awareness. Our Vision and mission guide us in everything we do and how we will continue to proceed in the future.
Besides being a farm animal sanctuary, we are an educational learning center- teaching the public about the social and ethical responsibility of animal ownership. We do this thru educational tours, hands-on-learning, and by hosting professionals who are experts in their field- come and speak. We believe that the human-animal bond is crucial to to mental health and well-being. These animals that were once unwanted are able to teach us about love, empathy and so much more.
CAUSE AREAS
WHEN
WHERE
12020 123rd Ave SERainier, WA 98576
DATE POSTED
February 9, 2025
SKILLS
- Veterinary
- Farming
- Animal Care / Handling
- Animal Therapy
GOOD FOR
- Teens
- People 55+
REQUIREMENTS
- Background Check
- Must be at least 16
- Orientation or Training
- 2-hour shifts, must be able to make a 6-month commitment
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs, able to walk long distances, willing to work in the elements, have reliable transportation, applicants 18 years and older must be able to pass a background check. Must have previous horse experience.