Thank you for being interested in supporting Roanoke Valley Horse Rescue (RVHR) in our efforts to save lives.
Our dedicated staff and volunteers work tirelessly every day to care for the horses at our facility. This includes essential tasks such as feeding, providing water, distributing hay, and cleaning up after the horses, all of which require significant time, effort, and a few extra hands.
To volunteer at RVHR, we ask that you first ask yourself whether you can commit to dedicating one to two days a week to help meet the horses’ needs before you apply. Having familiar humans is very important to the horses’ daily needs of consistency.
Our hours of operation are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. Please note that the facility closes at 5 p.m. each day, and new volunteers are required to come in during the following times: 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. ONLY to assist with the aforementioned tasks.
For the safety of both humans and horses, it is important to understand that many of the horses in our care have not received proper handling or care for years, which may pose safety risks.
Therefore, all new volunteers will be required to learn our daily routines for caring for each horse, including their specific feeding requirements and individual characteristics. Before submitting an application, please be aware that new volunteers are not allowed to enter enclosures with horses, groom, or work directly with any horses at first. This policy is in place to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Once a new volunteer has demonstrated a commitment to learning the routine for caring for each horse, as well as understanding the horse’s individual needs and personalities, you may be asked to take on additional tasks with specific horses when you feel you are ready. These tasks could include grooming, leading, and interacting with the horses to enhance their socialization skills.
Thank you if you have additional questions, please feel free to contact us at info@rvhr.com.