Volunteers
The Heart of HSHPE—at Both Ends of the Leash
Volunteers
The Heart of HSHPE—at Both Ends of the Leash
At Humane Society Hastings Prince Edward (HSHPE), our volunteers truly are the heart of everything we do. Our shelter simply couldn’t operate without your dedication, compassion, and generosity. Volunteers support every part of our mission, from hands-on animal care to tasks behind the scenes, ensuring every animal—and every human—experiences comfort and connection.
Our tagline, “both ends of the leash,” reflects the philosophy that volunteering here benefits everyone involved. Whether providing comfort and enrichment to animals or experiencing the therapeutic joy of animal companionship, volunteers make a difference for the animals in our care while also boosting their own wellness and sense of purpose. Working alongside animals can reduce stress, increase happiness, and build meaningful connections within our community.
There is a place for everyone at HSHPE—regardless of skill set or schedule. Choose from many opportunities with or without direct animal interaction: animal care, dog walking, fundraising, maintenance, events, administration, and more. Volunteers enjoy easy scheduling and communication through our software, and all receive thorough training so they feel confident and supported.
When you volunteer with HSHPE, you’re not just helping animals—you’re becoming part of a compassionate team, changing lives at both ends of the leash. Discover how rewarding it can be to join us!
The Volunteer Application Process
After you submit an application, it will be reviewed by our Volunteer Programs Coordinator. Once approved you’ll be contacted to attend an orientation session, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. After your training, you’ll be able to access our online volunteer forum-Here2Volunteer and can sign up for shifts whenever your schedule allows. Sign up today – the life you change may just be your own!
Thank you so much for your interest in volunteering with us! We’re currently catching up on recent submissions and will begin accepting new volunteers in the New Year. We appreciate your patience and look forward to connecting soon!
6 Great Reasons to Volunteer at Hastings Prince Edward Humane Society
Help Pets in Need
Many pets that end up in shelters are strays or were surrendered for adoption. Volunteering to spend time with them helps ease their transition, and improves overall chance of adoption by ensuring they’re well socialized.
Give Back to Your Community
This could be your opportunity to help make Hastings and Prince Edward Counties an even better place to live. You give your time and energy and take home a great sense of accomplishment and contribution.
Gain Hands-on Pet Care Experience
If you are planning to adopt one day, volunteering is a great way to dip your toes in the water. You’ll interact with animals, learn from animal care professionals and assist in daily care.
Meet New Friends
What better way to meet people like you – who care about animals and their community?
Volunteer Experience Looks Great on a Resume!
Even though it is not a paid job, volunteering does have its benefits in the end. Whether you are applying for college or a job, most employers value the fact that you care about your community.
De-stress from Work or School
Work and school can be stressful, volunteering is a great way to relieve unwanted stress. Spending time with animals is proven to help reduce blood pressure, decreases feelings of isolation or loneliness and boosting your mood! Playing with a dog or cat will not only help you relax, you can feel good knowing you’re increasing that animals chance at adoption by spending time together. Dog walking is a great way to increase dopamine while exercising your mind and body.
