Shelter Director
Duties
Being "chief administrator" may sound like a desk job, but shelter directors rarely sit still. In one day, a director might speak at a town meeting, appear in a t.v. interview, and lead a potential donor on a tour of the shelter. The director oversees all departments to make sure that the animals are healthy and the people are doing their jobs.
Education and Background
A bachelor's degree or higher and experience with animals and in business administration are valuable preparation for shelter directors.
Professional Studies
Consider Humane Society University's noncredit online courses on shelter management, including the Executive Leadership Certificate (designed for students who already work or volunteer in the animal care and control field) or HSU's two accredited programs in partnership with Duquesne University:
Consider joining the Society of Animal Welfare Administrators
Learn more about Animal Sheltering and Pet Care:
- Subscribe to Animal Sheltering magazine
- Visit AnimalSheltering.org — the premiere resource for animal care and control professionals!
- Subscribe to HSUS' weekly e-newsletter Pets for Life and get pet tips, expert news, and advice
- Contact your local shelter for information on what volunteer opportunities are available or look up volunteer information at www.Pets911.com or www.VolunteerMatch.org
- Visit The HSUS' Pets information and resources