Volunteer with PAWS NY
"I love getting to develop a long-term relationship with the client and the pet—something unique about PAWS NY that you wouldn't necessarily get volunteering in an animal shelter."
- PAWS NY Volunteer
Housecall Program
The Housecall Program is our core program through which PAWS NY volunteers provide on-site visits to our participants in their homes.
Visits may include one or more of the following services:
- Dog walking
- Litter box maintenance
- Transportation to veterinary appointments
- Medication administration
- Providing food and fresh water
A Housecall visit typically lasts 30-60 mins and we encourage volunteers to commit to a weekly shift for at least 6 months for consistency.
We require all volunteers to attend an orientation before getting started. We hold two virtual orientation sessions on Zoom each month.
Volunteer Orientation 11/5 at 6pm EST
Volunteer Orientation 11/16 at 6pm EST
Volunteer Orientation 12/1 at 6pm EST
Volunteer Orientation 12/14 at 6pm EST
Volunteer Orientation 1/6 at 5pm EST
Foster Program
Our foster program provides temporary, in-home care for pets whose guardians are facing crises. Our fosters help ensure that our participants can access care for themselves without worrying about the safety and well-being of their pets.
Eligibility Requirements:To join our foster network, please complete a foster application, submit three references, and successfully complete a background check.
Host a Corporate Volunteer Pet Pantry with PAWS NY
Give back to the NYC community while team-building with your company!
One meaningful way to support our mission as a team is by hosting a Pet Pantry Distribution Event. These hands-on, community-focused events provide pet food and supplies to community members in need, helping people keep and care for their beloved pets during challenging times.
How It Works:
· Sponsorship:
A minimum donation of $3,000 helps provide pet food and essential supplies for animals in need. Every additional dollar increases your impact and helps us serve more pets.
· Optional Pet Food Collection Drive: For teams looking to deepen their impact, you can organize a pet food and supply collection drive at your workplace leading up to the event. Items collected can be distributed during your sponsored Pet Pantry event, giving employees an additional way to get involved and support the community.
· Event Day (~3 hours):
- Set up – Your team helps prepare the distribution area and organize supplies
- Distribution – Volunteers distribute pet food, connect with community members, and help track the event's impact.
- Breakdown – The team assists with cleanup and celebrates a successful event.
PAWS NY handles logistics, including securing a community partner and event location, coordinating outreach, and providing guidance throughout the process. Your team takes an active role in delivering support directly to pet owners and their animals, creating a meaningful and memorable volunteer experience.
Current Volunteers
Volunteer Requirements
- Volunteers must be at least 18 years old.
- Volunteers must complete all application materials, including required consent forms, references, and a background check.
- Housecall volunteers must attend a live orientation session.
- Housecall volunteers must commit to at least one (1) ongoing assignment per week for a minimum of six (6) months.
- Foster Care volunteers must provide proof of pet-friendly housing and submit current veterinary records for any pets residing in their home
If you have any questions about our requirements, please contact us via email at [email protected] or via phone at 212-203-4760, ext. 303.
