Edit this cover letterAnimal Shelter Volunteer Cover Letter Examples
Check out our animal shelter volunteer cover letter examples and writing tips for making a successful first impression on recruiters.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Animal Shelter Volunteer Cover Letter Example
We've created this free cover letter template with instructions on how to write each paragraph. Fill in the rest of the blanks to ensure proper letter formatting.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
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How to Write a Animal Shelter Volunteer Cover Letter
The following cover letter example will help you identify the key sections in a cover letter and what to include in each one.
If you're trying to write a cover letter and don't know where to start, the following step-by-step guide will break down the writing process into a few easy steps.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
Every cover letter must have a properly formatted header. In this first section, you'll share the letter's date, details about the recipient and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Emma Johnson, Volunteer Coordinator
Happy Paws Animal Shelter
1234 Paws Avenue
Denver, CO 80203
Dear Ms. Johnson,
Weak cover letter header example:
Date: 02/30/2023
Re: Application for Horse Wrangeler Position
To Whomever It May Consern,
Mr. Jonathon Simth
Fluttering Hearts Cat Shelter & Co.
12345 Barkway Drive
Cuddle Town, NY 54321
Samantha Collin
123 Bread St., Apt. 404
Someplace, XX 67890
Email: samamtha_callins@domain.com
Phone: 987-654-3211
PRO TIP
Using the recipient's name in the greeting demonstrates attention to detail and personalizes your letter. Try to avoid generic salutations like “To Whom It May Concern.“ For more options, explore our guide on addressing a cover letter when you don't know the recipient's name.
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Your animal shelter volunteer cover letter must quickly capture the hiring manager's attention. Introduce yourself with your professional title and key qualifications, such as in-demand skills or specialized expertise. For example, see how these two opening paragraph examples compare:
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a customer service representative with 5 years of experience, I am excited to apply for the animal shelter volunteer position at Happy Tails Shelter. My background in client relations has prepared me for this role, particularly through my ability to manage diverse needs. Recently, I managed a community event that raised $5,000 for local shelters, highlighting my dedication to animal welfare initiatives.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there, I wanted to reach out and say I'm super excited about the animal shelter volunteer position with Pet Pals. I love animals and have been around them a lot, so I think I'd fit in well.
PRO TIP
It's a huge bonus to have a recommendation for the role from a current employee. Our referral cover letter opening paragraph article provides different examples of approaching this topic.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should consist of one or two paragraphs — or even bullet points — sharing what makes you the ideal candidate for the animal shelter volunteer role. Ensure you include relevant quantifiable achievements and more insight into who you are as a professional.
Strong body paragraph example:
My experience volunteering at local animal shelters has honed my ability to efficiently manage tasks while ensuring animal welfare. Successfully coordinated adoption events, improving adoption rates by 30%. My problem-solving skills were key in resolving logistical challenges, and I also enhanced community outreach by 20%, promoting pet fostering. These experiences highlight my dedication, communication, and organizational skills, making me well-suited for the animal shelter volunteer role.
Weak body paragraph example:
I am interested in volunteering at your animal shelter mainly because it would help me to gain experience. Although I haven't worked much with animals before, I like them and have a strong desire to be around them. I hope that volunteering here will benefit me by teaching me about animals and shelter work.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
In the cover letter's closing paragraph, you seal the deal with potential employers by summarizing your best qualifications and expressing your genuine interest in a job interview. Include a sign-off and your name; you've completed a professional cover letter!
Strong closing paragraph:
My compassion and experience in animal care make me an ideal candidate for the volunteer role at Heartfelt Haven Animal Shelter. I am eager to contribute positively to the organization’s mission. I look forward to discussing how my skills align with your needs during an interview. Thank you for considering my application. I appreciate your time and efforts.
Warm regards,
Oliver Bennett
Weak closing paragraph:
I'm interested in volunteering at the animal shelter and think it could be fulfilling and enjoyable. I hope you find my application interesting enough to consider me. Please let me know if you need anything else from me. Thanks for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
Emily Carter
After completing this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to write a compelling cover letter for any animal shelter volunteer role. However, don't waste your time with word processors like Word or Google Docs; take advantage of the pre-formatted cover letter templates and content suggestions our Cover Letter Builder offers. You'll be able to create a custom cover letter in minutes!
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Animal Shelter Volunteer
Your animal shelter volunteer cover letter is great for sharing more relevant skills. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for a animal shelter volunteer. Ensure you mention both soft skills and hard skills that show you're a well-rounded candidate.
- Animal Handling
- Basic Veterinary Care
- Species Identification
- Empathy
- Animal First Aid
- Shelter Sanitation
- Customer Service
- Behavioral Observation
- Data Entry
- Public Speaking
- Team Collaboration
- Event Coordination
Using our Cover Letter Builder gives you access to skills and content suggestions tailored to your target role. Simply type in your desired job title and writing style, and the Builder will write you a custom cover letter in virtually no time!
Similar Animal Shelter Volunteer Cover Letter Examples
Find more cover letter examples related to your animal shelter volunteer job right below!
- Coordinator
- Volunteer
- Assistant Manager
- Veterinary Technician
- Supervisor
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