Volunteering at Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary

Oxfordshire Animal Sanctuary employs just 18 people, some full-time and some part-time and when we’re caring for up to 100 animals at any one time – we always need the help of people like you.

If you can offer any time to us, we’d appreciate it but more than that – our animals would love it.

There are lots of ways to get involved at the Sanctuary, from cat and rabbit socialising to events, and helping in our charity shops.

We also offer work experience and Duke of Edinburgh placements. Click here to learn more.

We couldn’t do it without you.

Cat Socialising

Some of our cats enjoy meeting new people during their stay here and some of the more timid ones need patient and gentle people to help them adjust to strangers.

Cat socialising takes place from 2-3pm every day, including weekends.

If you have a calm and gentle nature and are fond of cats, please arrange a visit using the booking system link below.

When Booking an Appointment, please make sure you select ‘2 people’ if you want 2 people to visit, otherwise it’s one person per appointment. You cannot book a 1 person appointment and bring someone else with you.

We do not accept bookings via email, phone or Facebook.

Please read our terms and conditions before booking.

Rabbit Socialising

Some of our rabbits come to us having had little positive contact and handling with people. Therefore, to help them settle when they go to a new home, it’s great if they have had really positive interactions with strangers, whilst in our care.

If you’re thinking of adopting rabbits, it’s also essential to learn lots about them, their needs and their ideal routines, before adopting.

Rabbits do not like being picked up but are very inquisitive and affectionate in nature, so all interactions will be at ground level. This will help you keep your rabbits happy and healthy.

If you’re interested in rabbit socialising, please book an appointment using the link below.
Please be aware that our rabbit enclosures are outdoors and it can be cold during autumn and winter, so please consider this before booking.

When Booking an Appointment, please make sure you select ‘2 people’ if you want 2 people to visit, otherwise it’s one person per appointment. You cannot book a 1 person appointment and bring someone else with you.

All children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

Please read our terms and conditions before booking.

Work Experience & Duke of Edinburgh Award Placement

Work experience placements are available for individuals aged 15 and above.

They take place from Monday to Friday, 9 am to 4 pm, and involve working with cats and rabbits.

The tasks mainly focus on cleaning and hygiene, so expect hard work. Minimal animal handling is involved, so it’s important not to expect constant cat cuddling!

Dogs are not included, and only one student per week is permitted.

It’s advisable to contact us early due to advance bookings. Pre-placement visits are welcome, and health and safety information will be provided upon receiving your email.

Duke of Edinburgh placements are available for individuals aged 15 and above on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 am and 12 noon.

Participants will work with cats and rabbits, primarily focusing on cleaning and hygiene tasks. Animal handling is minimal.

Dogs are not included, and only one student per day is permitted.

Please note that Duke of Edinburgh placements can be 12 weeks or longer for different award levels, resulting in a long waiting list. Therefore, arranging a placement on short notice is very rare.

Click below to learn more about what we offer and how to apply.

Charity Shop Assistance

We have shops in Carterton, Didcot, and Summertown & Witney.

Why not pop in and have a chat about joining our team, whether you can offer a couple of hours, half a day, or a whole day – your help will be appreciated.

Volunteering in our charity shops involves:

  • Sorting and arranging new & old items
  • Pricing the items
  • Meeting, greeting and assisting customers

Helping at Events

We organise fundraising events throughout the year and often need help.

If you are able to offer your time, please email support@oascharity.org.uk and we can chat to you about what’s coming up!