Opportunities From: Halifax Humane Society

Volunteer: Potty Walkers

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

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.  

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.

Please watch Safe Handling Training 2025.mp4 - Google Drive

You will also need to complete the Leash Skills Training prior to signing up for this opportunity:

Leash Skills - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1092334

** IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE WITH THE PROCESS, PLEASE CONTACT THE VOLUNTEER OFFICE

386-274-4703 EXT 319

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

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

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.  

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.

Please watch Safe Handling Training 2025.mp4 - Google Drive

You will also need to complete the Leash Skills Training prior to signing up for this opportunity:

Leash Skills - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1092334

** IF YOU NEED ADDITIONAL ASSISTANCE WITH THE PROCESS, PLEASE CONTACT THE VOLUNTEER OFFICE

386-274-4703 EXT 319

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

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Cat Socialization

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.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910



Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

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.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910



Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Open Paw Ambassador (Front Desk Greeter)

The Open Paw Ambassador is a community-facing volunteer role that helps create a welcoming, positive, and informative experience for every guest who visits Halifax Humane Society. As one of the first points of contact for visitors, Ambassadors help set the tone for a potential adopter's visit while ensuring guests are connected with the appropriate programs, services, and staff members throughout the organization.

Responsibilities

Front Desk Operations

Welcome all visitors, donors, volunteers, and community members in a friendly and professional manner. Assist guests with the electronic sign-in process. Answer basic questions and provide general information about Halifax Humane Society programs and services.

Guest Navigation & Wayfinding

Assess visitor needs and direct or escort guests to the appropriate department or location. Escort individuals surrendering pets to the Animal Resource Center. Direct adopters to the adoption areas and introduce them to available resources. Assist visitors seeking veterinary services, volunteer information, thrift store information, or other services by ensuring they reach the correct destination. Help maintain a positive guest experience by ensuring visitors feel welcomed and supported throughout their visit.

Donation Reception

Graciously accept donations from community members. Ensure donors complete the appropriate donation form. Verify that donated items are directed to the proper department or collection area. Thank donors for their support and help communicate the impact of their generosity on Halifax Humane Society's mission.

Open Paw Advocate

Become trained and knowledgeable in the purpose, principles, and practices of the Open Paw methodology. Promote Open Paw engagement opportunities throughout the shelter. Serve as an ambassador for positive animal interactions and enrichment practices.

Open Paw Activity Station

Escort visitors to the Open Paw Activity Station. Educate guests on appropriate activities and interactions. Encourage meaningful engagement that benefits both animals and visitors.

Mission Ambassador

Share Halifax Humane Society's mission, vision, and values with visitors. Help guests understand how adoptions, volunteering, fostering, donations, and community support contribute to lifesaving outcomes for animals.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

The Open Paw Ambassador is a community-facing volunteer role that helps create a welcoming, positive, and informative experience for every guest who visits Halifax Humane Society. As one of the first points of contact for visitors, Ambassadors help set the tone for a potential adopter's visit while ensuring guests are connected with the appropriate programs, services, and staff members throughout the organization.

Responsibilities

Front Desk Operations

Welcome all visitors, donors, volunteers, and community members in a friendly and professional manner. Assist guests with the electronic sign-in process. Answer basic questions and provide general information about Halifax Humane Society programs and services.

Guest Navigation & Wayfinding

Assess visitor needs and direct or escort guests to the appropriate department or location. Escort individuals surrendering pets to the Animal Resource Center. Direct adopters to the adoption areas and introduce them to available resources. Assist visitors seeking veterinary services, volunteer information, thrift store information, or other services by ensuring they reach the correct destination. Help maintain a positive guest experience by ensuring visitors feel welcomed and supported throughout their visit.

Donation Reception

Graciously accept donations from community members. Ensure donors complete the appropriate donation form. Verify that donated items are directed to the proper department or collection area. Thank donors for their support and help communicate the impact of their generosity on Halifax Humane Society's mission.

Open Paw Advocate

Become trained and knowledgeable in the purpose, principles, and practices of the Open Paw methodology. Promote Open Paw engagement opportunities throughout the shelter. Serve as an ambassador for positive animal interactions and enrichment practices.

Open Paw Activity Station

Escort visitors to the Open Paw Activity Station. Educate guests on appropriate activities and interactions. Encourage meaningful engagement that benefits both animals and visitors.

Mission Ambassador

Share Halifax Humane Society's mission, vision, and values with visitors. Help guests understand how adoptions, volunteering, fostering, donations, and community support contribute to lifesaving outcomes for animals.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Dogs Day Out - Adventure Team

Help HHS pets enjoy an adventure outside the shelter and gain valuable real-world experiences! Participants in this program will take a pre-selected dog on a field trip to one of our pre-approved locations. HHS provides all necessary equipment, training, and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both volunteers and their four-legged companions.

Requirements

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to participate in Dogs Day Out.

Responsibilities

Pick up your assigned dog between 7:30 AM and 10:30M Monday through Saturday and return them to the shelter no later than 12:00 PM.Sunday scheduling offers greater flexibility. Please arrive by 12:00 and ensure the dog is back to the shelter by 4:00.Follow all safety guidelines while visiting a pre-approved location.Provide your Dogs Day Out companion with a positive, enriching experience outside the shelter.Upon returning to the shelter, complete the digital report card to provide valuable insight into the dog's behavior, experiences, and potential adopters' questions.Upload any photos and videos from your adventure to help showcase our pets and support adoption efforts.

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

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Help HHS pets enjoy an adventure outside the shelter and gain valuable real-world experiences! Participants in this program will take a pre-selected dog on a field trip to one of our pre-approved locations. HHS provides all necessary equipment, training, and guidance to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both volunteers and their four-legged companions.

Requirements

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old to participate in Dogs Day Out.

Responsibilities

Pick up your assigned dog between 7:30 AM and 10:30M Monday through Saturday and return them to the shelter no later than 12:00 PM.Sunday scheduling offers greater flexibility. Please arrive by 12:00 and ensure the dog is back to the shelter by 4:00.Follow all safety guidelines while visiting a pre-approved location.Provide your Dogs Day Out companion with a positive, enriching experience outside the shelter.Upon returning to the shelter, complete the digital report card to provide valuable insight into the dog's behavior, experiences, and potential adopters' questions.Upload any photos and videos from your adventure to help showcase our pets and support adoption efforts.

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

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Leash Skills Training

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.

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

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.

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Training Walks

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

Help our residents learn skills and manners that will help them get adopted! Participants will take dogs out to the play yards to work on skills such as "Sit", "Shake", "Look at me", and "Drop it". This will provide mental stimulation for our residents and allow them time to practice skills they can show off to future potential adopters!


In order to sign up for this opportunity you must complete the Leash Skills and Cues & Methods Trainings:

Leash Skills - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1092334

Cues & Methods - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1111691

The attached videos are very helpful as well and you may want to take a look at them.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-yUoq1aiQixBU1oC0ZDpiaqM_JlBH2eh&si=xHghSLuQZ6cM9B

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

AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR TRAINING, TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW!!!

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

Help our residents learn skills and manners that will help them get adopted! Participants will take dogs out to the play yards to work on skills such as "Sit", "Shake", "Look at me", and "Drop it". This will provide mental stimulation for our residents and allow them time to practice skills they can show off to future potential adopters!


In order to sign up for this opportunity you must complete the Leash Skills and Cues & Methods Trainings:

Leash Skills - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1092334

Cues & Methods - https://halifaxhumanesociety.galaxydigital.com/need/detail/?need_id=1111691

The attached videos are very helpful as well and you may want to take a look at them.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-yUoq1aiQixBU1oC0ZDpiaqM_JlBH2eh&si=xHghSLuQZ6cM9B

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

AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED YOUR TRAINING, TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW!!!

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Cues and Methods Training for Training Walks

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. 

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

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. 

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Run-N-Paw Volunteer Support

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

Help our dogs burn energy, build confidence, and develop skills that support successful adoption.

Run-N-Paw is designed to provide exercise and enrichment for large-breed, high-energy dogs while supporting their overall training and development. Regular physical activity helps reinforce positive behaviors, improve manners, reduce kennel stress, and better prepare dogs for life in a home.

As a Run-N-Paw volunteer, you will play an important role in ensuring dogs safely participate in the program. Volunteers will retrieve assigned dogs from their kennels, provide a potty break, escort them to the Run-N-Paw holding area, and return them safely to their kennel once the session is complete.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910


Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY, PLEASE READ THE FULL DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS AND BE SURE THEY HAVE BEEN COMPLETED.

Help our dogs burn energy, build confidence, and develop skills that support successful adoption.

Run-N-Paw is designed to provide exercise and enrichment for large-breed, high-energy dogs while supporting their overall training and development. Regular physical activity helps reinforce positive behaviors, improve manners, reduce kennel stress, and better prepare dogs for life in a home.

As a Run-N-Paw volunteer, you will play an important role in ensuring dogs safely participate in the program. Volunteers will retrieve assigned dogs from their kennels, provide a potty break, escort them to the Run-N-Paw holding area, and return them safely to their kennel once the session is complete.

TEXT OR EMAIL A VOLUNTEER MENTOR PRIOR TO YOUR FIRST SHIFT IN ORDER TO SHADOW

Sandy Archer -sarcher226@aol.com

386-451-9879

Pat Hughes - inhocranch@aol.com

352-318-2481

Sydney Smith - ssella3207@gmail.com

504-913-4910


Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No


Volunteer: Welcome Back Ambassador for Dogs Day Out

Help us welcome our Dogs Day Out participants back to the shelter and make every return smooth, organized, and positive!

As a Dogs Day Out Return Assistant, you will greet returning guests and their canine companions, provide excellent customer service, and assist with the check-in process.

Volunteer ResponsibilitiesWarmly greet returning Dogs Day Out guests.Assist with checking returned bags and confirm all supplies and contents have been returned.Ensure each guest scans the provided QR code to complete the Dogs Day Out Report Card.Encourage guests to upload photos from their adventure as part of their report.Help create a welcoming and positive experience as guests return their Dogs Day Out companion.

Why This Role Matters

The information and photos collected after each Dogs Day Out adventure give us valuable insight into how our dogs behave outside the shelter—and can help us tell their story to potential adopters. Your support helps make sure we capture that information while providing a great experience for our community.

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Help us welcome our Dogs Day Out participants back to the shelter and make every return smooth, organized, and positive!

As a Dogs Day Out Return Assistant, you will greet returning guests and their canine companions, provide excellent customer service, and assist with the check-in process.

Volunteer ResponsibilitiesWarmly greet returning Dogs Day Out guests.Assist with checking returned bags and confirm all supplies and contents have been returned.Ensure each guest scans the provided QR code to complete the Dogs Day Out Report Card.Encourage guests to upload photos from their adventure as part of their report.Help create a welcoming and positive experience as guests return their Dogs Day Out companion.

Why This Role Matters

The information and photos collected after each Dogs Day Out adventure give us valuable insight into how our dogs behave outside the shelter—and can help us tell their story to potential adopters. Your support helps make sure we capture that information while providing a great experience for our community.

Program: Behavior & Training (Open Paw Program)

Opportunity Type: Volunteer

Date: Multiple Shifts Available

Zip Code: 32124

Allow Groups: No