Animal Care Internship

Animal care internship (Unpaid) - Summer 2026

Your Mission

To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) by volunteering time and effort to support the Animal Care teams while gaining valuable hands-on knowledge and experience in animal welfare and care practices in a shelter environment.

What You’ll Do

As an Animal Care Intern, you’ll play an important role in supporting the daily care, enrichment, and wellbeing of animals at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch. You’ll assist with cleaning and maintaining animal housing areas, help monitor animal health and behavior, and immediately report any concerns to staff. You’ll learn to operate laundry, cleaning, and dishwashing equipment, help ensure all supplies and spaces are well maintained, and contribute to keeping the shelter environment clean, safe, and welcoming.

Throughout the internship, you’ll complete rotations with the leaders at ARL Main, ARL Animal Services, and the Second Chance Ranch to gain a comprehensive understanding of the ARL’s shelter operations. You’ll also complete a research-based educational project designed to deepen your understanding of animal welfare and the ARL’s mission, which you’ll present at the conclusion of your internship. In all aspects of your work, you’ll support efforts to reduce stress and disease through compassionate and purposeful handling of animals while adhering to ARL policies and safety protocols.

What You Bring

You have a genuine interest in animal care and a desire to make a difference for animals in need. Previous experience working with animals or in a customer service environment is preferred, but not required. You are dependable, self-motivated, and eager to learn in a hands-on environment. The ability to work in a fast-paced setting, perform basic mathematical skills, and stay positive under pressure will serve you well in this role. A commitment of 90 days is required, with a minimum of four hours on-site at least five days a week.

Working Conditions

This position requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and to stand or sit for extended periods of time. Work may involve exposure to animal waste, odors, contagious diseases, bites, scratches, and a moderate noise level. You’ll be part of a supportive, mission-driven team where every day offers new opportunities to learn, grow, and make an impact in the lives of animals.

Why This Internship Matters

This internship is an opportunity to gain meaningful, real-world experience in animal welfare, build professional skills, and contribute to the care and comfort of hundreds of animals each day. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of shelter operations, animal behavior, and the role compassion plays in every aspect of our work while helping to further the ARL’s mission to change lives, one animal at a time.