I am 11 and about to turn 12 in March. I really like animals and I love horses even more. I love to work with horses -- they always make me feel safe, especially when I'm riding one. Do you need any help? My mom said I could work with you any time that you needed me.
Your friend,
Amber

Dear Amber,

Thank you for your e-mail. It’s fantastic to see a young woman who is willing to volunteer her time to care for animals. United Animal Nations only operates temporary emergency animal shelters during disasters so we don't care for animals on an ongoing basis. We recommend that you contact your local animal shelter, horse rescue or SPCA to see if they have any programs for youth. Perhaps you could be a stable hand or a kennel helper.

You can find animal shelters near you through www.petfinder.com or www.pets911.com. You can also find horse rescue organizations through our Web site at www.PMUrescue.org.

You sound like a kind and generous young woman who will do very well in anything you choose to do. If you’re interested in preparing yourself for a career working with animals, check out the ASPCA’s Animaland Web site for kids -- it has information about animal careers, pet care, pet news, animal facts and other interesting activities.

If you do well in school, and volunteer in animal care, someday you will be able to choose a great job where you’re working with or for animals. Your career will be fun and rewarding. I’m sure your mom will tell you that it’s terrific to be able to make money doing something that you’re really interested in, and if it protects animals or leads to happier lives for them, then you will feel good and be very proud of yourself.

Best wishes for your future and thanks for offering a hand for the animals.

-- The Herd

P.S. If you have other ideas for Amber, and caring young people like her, please post them here!

You might want to check into any therapeutic riding centers/academies in your area. They are always looking for volunteers to help with lessons and caring for the horses. I learned a great deal about horse care by volunteering at one such center in Altamont, NY. It definitely prepared me for being a responsible horse owner.