P.E.I. Humane Society Volunteer Program - Information at-a-glance

Download the Shelter Volunteer Application Form In PDF Format

Download the P.E.I.H.S. Volunteer Guide Manual in PDF Format

Why Does the P.E.I. Humane Society Need Volunteers?

      ·   Our organization depends on volunteers at all levels of operation – board of directors, committees, special events, fundraising events, public humane education, clerical/administrative and helping in the shelter.

 How old do I have to be to volunteer?

·        Volunteers have to be 16 years of age or older.

·        Much is expected of volunteers.  Volunteers have to be mature, dependable and responsible individuals who are reliable and committed to their work.  Volunteers are expected to keep confidential information confidential, and to follow rules and policies for their own safety and the safety of others.

Working with the Animals – shelter volunteers provide much needed enrichment activities and companionship for the animals

·        Grooming - helping animals look and feel their best!

·        Dog Walking - the dogs benefit from exercise, attention and companionship; this keeps them happy and healthy until they are adopted; dog walkers should dress for the weather!

·        Socializing/Playing – sitting with an animal and just hanging out with it; some animals need help to learn to trust humans and to feel comfortable around them.

·        Fostering – special needs animals are fostered in your home for an agreed upon period of time, e.g. mothers and newborn litters, injured or recovering animals; they return to the shelter when they are well enough to be adopted..

Working with the Animals – shelter volunteers help with some light animal husbandry duties

·        Feeding & watering – sometimes we have over 150 animals in the shelter at one time; volunteers help feed and water the animals on time!

·        Dishes – 150 food and water dishes twice a day! It’s lucky we have two dish washers.

·        Sweeping & Cleaning – lots of little jobs to do; they are all important; our staff need reliable volunteers to help them get the job done.

·        Sorting & Tidying – everything in its place!

·        Washing & Drying – towels, blankets, toys, pillows and more

Working for the Animals – you can help the animals in lots of other ways, too!

·        Administrative/Clerical Support at the front desk – answering telephones, directing visitors to the animal areas, answering questions

·        Humane Education - talking to schools and other groups about good pet care and welfare issues; assisting staff with displays and presentations.

·        Special Events - working with staff to organize fund raising or public relations events.

·        Coin Banks – helping staff with coin banks that are throughout the community

 What kind of commitment does the PEIHS want from shelter volunteers?

• 1 day a week – same day and time every week

• 1 morning (8:30-11:30am) or 1 afternoon (1:30-4:30)

• 4 month commitment; we can be flexible depending on your circumstances

• We expect that your volunteer work at the PEIHS will be one of your top priorities; the staff and animals are relying on you!

  But what if I really can’t make it?

·        Notify us as soon as possible because we may be able to find a replacement.

·        If you are absent for two weeks without notification, we will contact you to see if you are still interested in volunteering.

 What do I wear?

• Dress appropriately for the work you do – if you are working with the animals, wear old cloths and sturdy, non- slip shoes; and dress for walking dogs in any weather!

• Dress for success – if you are helping out in the office or at a special event or humane education activity, please consider yourself a good-will ambassador for the PEIHS and dress to meet the public.

 What kind of training will I receive?

• On-the-job training from staff and other experienced volunteers.

• Part of your job as a volunteer is to make sure you understand the instructions and feel comfortable with the tasks you are asked to do.  Remember, ask for clarification and help if you aren’t sure.  We want you to feel confident and safe in whatever you do.

 What if a member of the public asks me a question about the PEIHS?

• You may be comfortable answering basic questions about the PEIHS, e.g. cost of adoptions, business hours, etc.; but as a volunteer you aren’t expected to know everything.

• If you are asked questions regarding our policies, philosophy, services or programs that you do not feel qualified to answer, please refer people to the appropriate staff person; or get their contact information so staff can contact them.

 What’s the bottom line?

• We want you to enjoy your volunteer experience at the PEIHS.

• If you are not happy with your volunteer work, please tell us.

• Together, we can make the PEIHS Volunteer Program the best one around!

Your gift to us is your time, energy, compassion and dedication.  Thank you for considering the P.E.I. Humane Society.

For more information, contact:

For information about the volunteer program, email:  volunteers@peihumanesociety.com

Box 20022
(309 Sherwood Road)
Charlottetown PE
C1A 9E3

 Phone:  (902) 892-1190/1191
Fax:  (902) 892-3617

Email:  volunteers@peihumanesociety.com

Internet:  www.peihumanesociety.com

© Copyright Prince Edward Island Humane Society 2006