I have loved animals my entire life, and before becoming the President of Palmetto Animal League (PAL), I volunteered for animal organizations whenever possible. During my time as a private chef on yachts, I was always feeding the stray animal populations in marinas. This is when I knew we, as a society, were not doing enough to end animal suffering. So, I made the career change to devote myself to animal welfare for the rest of my life.

I am telling my story because I want everyone to know that the staff members at PAL come from all different walks of life. The most important qualifications you need to start a career with PAL are a dedicated work ethic and a passion for helping animals. For the last 14 years, I have been fortunate enough to share my days surrounded by animals. PAL’s cozy, upbeat adoption center is home to some 200 cats and dogs. And for me, there has always been something inexplicably remarkable about being in the presence of that much unconditional love all under one roof.

If you would like to turn your love of animals into a career, PAL is looking for compassionate people to join the animal care team at our no kill adoption center in Okatie. Animal care technicians focus on the well-being of rescue pets and ensure our facility is clean and welcoming. 

“I feel so much joy when the animals find their forever homes,” says animal care technician and front desk receptionist Kaitlyn Hawes. “All the work we put into them is returned in the amount of love they give back to their adopters.”

Do you like the idea of a career in animal rescue, but you’re worried you’ll want to bring all the animals home? Trust me, we understand! Consider joining our sales team at the PAL Thrift Store in Sheridan Park where great buys save lives. PAL Thrift has a nice blend of staff members and volunteers, all experienced in different aspects of life.

“The camaraderie is great, and I’ve made some really good friends there,” says PAL Thrift volunteer Joanne Smith. “I love animals, and I love helping make their lives better.”

PAL offers on-the-job training, flex schedules, and both full and part-time positions. To learn more about the different career paths available at PAL, visit https://palmettoanimalleague.org/careers/. If, like me, animals have always been an important part of your life, explore a career that is both fulfilling for you and impactful for those animals the rest of the world has forgotten. 


Amy Campanini, Palmetto Animal League President

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Thank you to our Partners in Rescue, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun for being beacons of compassion and hope for homeless pets in our community. Please show your support for these local animal loving businesses!