Opportunities From: Halifax Humane Society

If you are part of a school group or just want to get a group of friends/family together to come in and give back - this is the opportunity for you! 

This opportunity is for groups of 4-12 people at a time. 

If you are the team lead, you will be the one to register on behalf of your group. 

With our Open Paw shelter - the goal is for all our animals to interact and meet 20 new people a day. This process helps our cats and dogs feel more comfortable around new people, while also allowing us to learn more about how our animals interact. 

While you are here with your group:

A Volunteer leader will with be your group for a personal give back experience. 

Help HHS pets go out on an adventure and have real-world experiences! Participants in this program will take a pre-selected dog out of the shelter for a field trip! HHS will provide all the necessary equipment for the volunteers and their four-legged friends to have a safe and enjoyable day together. Training and information about pre-approved local adventures is also provided. 

Responsibilities include: 

Pick up pets at 9AM and return to the shelter by 11:45 a.m. We are open to alternative scheduling - please reach out to Chris McDuff (chrismcd@halifaxhumanesociety.org) to arrange. 

Follow safety guidelines while visiting a pre-approved location. 

Upon return to the shelter, the volunteer will help the HHS team gain valuable insight into the pet’s behavior by completing a digital report card and uploading any photos or videos from your Dogs Day Out!

Please contact chrismcd@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Join volunteers and staff as we prepare for one of our signature fundraising events - Mutt Strut!

Volunteers that have signed up to assist at Mutt Strut should plan on attending one of the training dates below. These trainings will help us assist the community and ensure we have a successful event! 

Please make sure that you have filled out the survey noting your preferred role at the event. 

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfcFKzfaMqagZOw3vA4N2jPmcH-iUtdUFJvoPxgORTG0r_a9A/viewform?usp=header

These training sessions will be led by our Chief Advancement Officer, Tamara Hebert and will be held in our Education Room. 

Welcome to Open Paw Training. This training is the first of many that are being designed by an expert specifically for our volunteers and staff. HHS is investing in our community in support of the Open Paw mission to reduce the number of dogs surrendered each year. Your participation is truly appreciated!

HHS is requiring that this class be completed by all individuals who interact with dogs. The initial training is hosted by an outside dog trainer that has been contracted by HHS. This is a requirement in order to sign up to be a Potty Walker. This training is the introduction to the Open Paw way and volunteers are trained in the process and benefits of the Open Paw Potty Walk methodology. Training includes a review of tasks and activities associated with a successful Potty Walk. All current volunteers and staff are required to complete this training within 60 days.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

The Halifax Humane Society offers the opportunity for individuals to complete court mandated community service hours. All applicants must be at least 18 years old, approved and complete an in-person overview of duties. Duties include light groundskeeping, maintenance, and housekeeping. Applicants may also have the opportunity to support shelter operations by assisting in Kong preparation. 

Applicants who have been convicted of animal neglect or abuse, violent crimes, sexual charges, theft of any kind, and some drug charges are not eligible for the program. Shifts are available Monday through Friday between 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Welcome! We're thrilled that you're interested in becoming a vital member of the Halifax Humane Society volunteer family. The first step to serving with us is to register for an one-hour orientation session below. While doing so, you'll complete a quick profile and then our volunteer department will follow-up with confirmation details.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

This role is ideal for volunteers passionate about animal welfare and comfortable working in a veterinary environment. Volunteers assist staff in both surgical and non-surgical tasks, ensuring that our animals are healthy and ready for adoption. 

This opportunity is available to 18+. 

Responsibilities include: 

Surgical Prep: Instrument preparation, assisting with post-surgical care, monitoring animals, trimming nails, and other related tasks. 

Folding and Organizing: Folding and organizing laundry for the clinic.

Admin Support: Provide general support to the Vet Services team. Ensure a clean and tidy environment.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Be Part of the Pack at Mutt Strut 2026! 

Join us as a volunteer for one of our most exciting signature events — Mutt Strut 2026! This fun, pet-centric community celebration will take place at the Riverfront Esplanade on Sunday, April 26 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM, bringing together animal lovers, families, and of course plenty of dogs for a day that supports the lifesaving work of Halifax Humane Society.

Volunteers are the heart of this event, and we’d love for you to be part of the team! Volunteers are encouraged to arrive at 8:00 AM (or earlier) to help with setup and receive instructions before the event begins.

During the event, volunteers will help with:
• Registration and check-in for attendees
• Greeting guests and providing event information
• Supporting activities around Manatee Island
• Helping ensure everything runs smoothly for guests and their pets

This is a fantastic opportunity to connect with fellow animal lovers, engage with the community, and share the important work happening at our shelter. Plus, you’ll get to spend the day surrounded by happy pups and great people! To make sure everyone feels confident in their role, we’ll host a brief volunteer training session prior to the event with all the details you’ll need.

Bring the pack! Invite your friends and family to volunteer with you and share in this fun, pet-filled event that helps animals in need.

If you have questions, please reach out to Chris McDuff at chrismcd@halifaxhumanesociety.org.

We can’t wait to see you there and make Mutt Strut 2026 an unforgettable day for our community and the animals we serve!

Volunteers are responsible for providing excellent customer service, sorting incoming products, receiving donations, and assisting the store manager in maintaining all store operations.

Responsibilities include: 

Customer Service: Asist in helping customers and staff throughout the store. 

Cleaning and Maintenance: Ensuring that the store if tidy and that the merchandise is displayed properly.

Donations: Assist in processing donations.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Welcome to Open Paw Training. This training is the first of many that are being designed by an expert specifically for our volunteers and staff. HHS is investing in our community in support of the Open Paw mission to reduce the number of dogs surrendered each year. Your participation is truly appreciated!

HHS is requiring that this class be completed by all individuals who interact with dogs. The initial training is hosted by an outside dog trainer that has been contracted by HHS. The training is hands-on and will take place outside in the courtyard, so dress weather appropriate. 

Successful completion of the training is required, in addition to volunteer orientation, before registering for a Potty Walk volunteer shift. All current volunteers and staff are required to complete this training within 60 days.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Volunteers prepare Kongs for dogs, providing enrichment through stimulating mealtime activities. The task promotes physical and mental well-being and reduces boredom, playing a critical role in preparing the dogs for life in their new adopted home. 

The Kong Kitchen Attendant position is vital to shelter operations at HHS, with over 600 Kongs cleaned and stuffed daily.

Responsibilities include: 

Stuffing Kongs for Enrichment: Fill Kongs with kibble, peanut butter, pumpkin, or sweet potato. 

Cleaning and Maintenance: Sanitize and scrub Kongs, inspect for damage, and replenish the kennel's stock of Kongs.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Cat socialization volunteers help socialize cats to build their comfort and trust with people, making them more adoptable. Activities associated with this position include interacting through petting, brushing, and playing while assisting in cleaning the cat room. 

Responsibilities include: 

Socializing Cats: Pet, cuddle, and play with cats to encourage positive behaviors. 

Provide Treats: Hand out treats to reinforce positive behavior to build trust.

Assist with Cleaning: Clean cat kennels and maintain the cat room. 

Report Observations: Share health and behavior observations with staff.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Volunteers will support Run-n-Paw sessions within the shelter. We are proud to partner with this wonderful organization, which helps our dogs in many important ways. Some dogs participate to support weight-loss goals, manage high energy levels, or build confidence if they are nervous about walking.

During a Run-n-Paw session, your role as a volunteer will be to take dogs out for a potty break, walk them to the Run-n-Paw holding area, and return them safely to their kennel once the session is complete.

This opportunity does require Leash Handling and Safe Handling Training first. 

Shelter laundry operations play a crucial role in maintaining a clean and comfortable environment, ensuring that animals in our care are adoptable. Careful and effective cleaning is literally lifesaving and helps in the prevention of infectious disease spread while building confidence in the public and community that the animals are healthy and ready for adoption. 

Responsibilities include:

Washing and Drying: Clean bedding, towels, and other items. Ensure that all laundry is washed according to shelter sanitation guidelines. 

Folding and Organizing: Fold and neatly store clean laundry in designated areas. Restock animal areas with clean bedding and towels as needed. 

Clean Workspace: Keep the laundry area tidy and organized. Report any issues with laundry machines to shelter staff.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

The Open Paw Ambassador is a community-facing role that sets the tone for a potential adopter’s visit. Help guide community members as they come in to see our available pets and ensure visitors are engaging in Open Paw activities during their time here. 

Responsibilities include: 

Front-Desk Operations: Greet and assist visitors with the electronic sign in process.

Open Paw Advocate: Trained and fluent in the purpose and practice of the Open Paw methodology throughout the shelter.

Open Paw Activity Station: Escort and educate visitors on the Open Paw Activity Station.

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

This training will build on topics and techniques discussed in previous trainings. Please ensure you have attended both Safe Handling and Leash Skills before signing up for this opportunity. 

Are you interested in helping our shelter pets learn tricks and techniques that will help them be more well-mannered and help them get adopted? Then this training opportunity is for you! 

Participants will work with our Behavior Team to understand cues and techniques for teaching dogs (and maybe even cats) how to sit, leave-it, lay down, and settle. After successfully completing this training, volunteers can participate in Training Walks and work on these important skills with resident pets. These opportunities provide mental stimulation for our pets and help them learn skills and manners that will help them get adopted and stay adopted! 

Please reach out to volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org with any questions. 

Volunteers play many important roles at the clinic including assisting with administrative tasks, cleaning and preparing surgery instrument packs, autoclaving, and processing drapes, gowns and towels through the laundry. With specialized training, volunteers can become "lifeguards" on our recovery "beach" monitoring animals recovering from anesthesia.

Halifax Humane Society Spay/Neuter Clinic: 600 Mason Ave, Ste 150, Daytona Beach, FL 32117

Responsibilities include: 

Surgical Prep: Preparing surgery instrument packs

Folding and Organizing: Folding and organizing laundry for the clinic.

General Support: Various activities to help the overall clinic operations. 

Front Desk Support: Supporting check in and questions from the community. 

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Volunteers ensure dogs receive regular bathroom breaks in a safe, designated area. This task is core to the Open Paw program. It supports laying the foundation for handling and potty training for a smooth transition to a home environment.  

Please complete the Safe Handling and Leash Skills Trainings before signing up for this opportunity by clicking here. Thank you!

Responsibilities include: 

Potty Break Supervision and Routine: Leash and escort dogs to potty area, supervise them, and track potty activity. 

Monitoring and Reporting: Report on health concerns to staff.

Waste Clean-up and Sanitation: Clean up pet waste and ensure walking areas are clean. 

Safe Return and Kennel Security: Safely return dogs to their kennels and secure the doors.

** IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE WITH THE PROCESS, LET CHRIS KNOW WHEN YOU ARRIVE FOR YOUR SHIFT. WE WILL PAIR YOU WITH A SEASONED VOLUNTEER OR STAFF MEMBER TO HELP BUILD YOUR CONFIDENCE IN THE PROCESS. **

Please contact volunteers@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.

Join us on Saturday, April 18th and Sunday, April 19th for the 15th Annual Ormond Beach Celtic Festival!

Join our staff and fellow volunteers for a very fun local event celebrating Celtic heritage! If you joined us last year, you'll remember we adopted nearly 20 puppies out to their new homes! This year, we'll have puppies (and likely kittens) for adoption, spread the word about all the awesome stuff happening in the shelter, and accept donations for our community assistance food pantry. 

We will have two shifts available for volunteers to assist! While these shifts will both be 5 hours, we welcome any volunteers to stick around after their shift and enjoy the festival and Highland Games. We will also find time to take breaks throughout the day and enjoy the festivities. 

THIS EVENT WILL BE HELD AT ROCKEFELLER GARDENS IN ORMOND BEACH. 

Parking and event information will be sent out closer to the event dates. 

Duties will include:

If you have any questions, please reach out to Chris McDuff. 

chrismcd@halifaxhumanesociety.org

We are excited to share another upcoming outreach opportunity where you can help support adoptions in our community!

PetSmart Joy Adoption Event 
Location: PetSmart – 1900 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114 

Event Details: 
We will have puppies and kittens attending this adoption event, and volunteers will play a key role in supporting staff, assisting with animal handling, engaging with potential adopters, and representing Halifax Humane Society in a positive and welcoming way.

These events are hosted at PetSmart once a month. 

This is a wonderful opportunity to help our animals find loving homes while connecting with the community and promoting our lifesaving mission.

CLICK RESPOND ABOVE TO REGISTER

Program overview:

Thank you for your interest in becoming a foster parent for our community’s homeless animals and animals in need. Fostering is a serious commitment and a rewarding experience. The Halifax Humane Society foster home program aims to place the most vulnerable and at-risk animals arriving at the shelter into temporary, volunteer foster homes.

Foster animals remain with the foster families until they heal or are old enough and can be adopted into loving homes. This program is essential for both the animals and the shelter, as it enhances the overall adoption process and reduces stress for the animals.

Next steps:

After registering for this opportunity, you will receive a confirmation email with a foster survey. Please complete this as soon as possible so we can get you placed with your best furry friend. Once your survey is viewed, our Foster Coordinator will reach out to you via a phone call to discuss the next steps.

Please contact fostertransfer@halifaxhumanesociety.org if you have any questions or issues.