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Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in being a volunteer! Our organization wouldn't be possible without you. Please read the following information on how you can volunteer, then submit an application.

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Make a Difference, One Paw at a time 
At Happy Paws Animal Rescue, every rescue story begins with someone who is willing to help. Our Volunteers are the heart of our organization. Whether you're caring for animals, helping at events, transporting pets or supporting us behind the scenes, your time and dedication help save lives.
No experience is necessary for many positions. We welcome animal lovers of all background an experience levels. Whether you have a few hours each month to work remote or want to become a regular volunteer, we'd love to have you join rescue family.

Volunteer Opportunities

Animal Care & Foster Team

Foster parents

Provide temporary housing, care and love to rescued dogs, cats or kittens until they find their forever home.

Animal Care Volunteer 

Assist with feeding, cleaning, bathing, socializing, and enrichment activities for rescue animals .

Medical Support Volunteer

Help care for animals with special needs or medical conditions.

Marketing & Creative Team

​Social media volunteer

Create and share post feate\uring adoptable pets, rescue stories and fundraising campaigns, and upcoming events.

Photography Volunteer 

 Capture high-quality photos and videos that help pets get noticed and adopted.

Content Writer

Write pet biographies, website content, newsletters, and adoption success stories.

Graphic Design Volunteer

Design flyers, banners, social media graphics, and promotional material.

Administrative & Leadership Team

Data Entry Volunteer

Help maintain adoption records, foster information, volunteer records and rescue databases.

Volunteer Coordinator 

Recruit, train, schedule, and support volunteers throughout the process. 

Administrative Volunteer

Assist with emails, paperwork, scheduling, record keeping and other behind -the-scenes tasks.

Board Member or Committee Volunteer 

Help guide the organizations growth. planning, fundraising and long-term success.

Adoption and Event Team

Adoption Event Volunteer 

Help set up events, handle animals and greet visitors, and educate the public about adoption opportunities.

Adoption Counselor 

Review applications, interview potential adopters, and help match pets with loving families. 

Follow-up Coordinator 

Check in with adopters after placement and provide support to help ensure successful adoption.

Fundraising & Community Outreach Team

Fundraising Volunteer

Assist with fundraising campaigns, community events, sponsorships, and donor outreach.

Donation Coordinator 

Organize donated items, manage inventory, and coordinate donation drives, 

Community Outreach Volunteer 

Build relationships with local businesses, schools, community groups, and supporters

Grant Research Volunteers 

Research grant opportunities and assist with grant application that help fund our mission.

Transport and Rescue Support Teams:

Animal transport Volunteer

Transport animals to vet appointments, foster homes, shelters, and adoption events

Supply Transport Volunteer

Deliver donated food, crates, and supplies to foster hoems and rescue events 

Sponsor a Pet

Our sponsorship programs allow you to cover the costs for a specific dog or cat's care.

What if I'm not nearby?
If you're not located near our nonprofit dog organization (San Diego/ Tijuana) but still want to help, we highly encourage are some alternative ways to contribute: Donate:
Financial contributions can directly help with operational costs, veterinary bills, food, and supplies.

 
 

Apply here

Birthday
Month
Day
Year
Are you covered by medical insurance?
Yes
No
Can you lift 25-30lb without difficulty?
Yes
No
What location are you interested in?

Availability

Please check the days you are available to volunteer:
Preferred time range:

Volunteer Responsibilities

Volunteer duties include: 

  • Cleaning and maintaining the cat habitat (Scooping litter boxes and refreshing litter as needed)

  • Filling food and water bowls

  • Wiping down habitat surfaces and tidying the enclosure

  • Reporting any concerns (health, behavior, or facility issues) to on-site staff immediately

Volunteers understand:

  • They must follow safety protocols for handling cats and guidelines for sanitation.

  • They may not allow others access without proper approval.

  • They must treat all animals with care, patience, and respect.

  • They are responsible for notifying staff upon each visit.

Participation is voluntary, and they are not considered employees.

Fosters

We are always looking for foster parents who are willing to take in any of our pets while they find their forever home. Orphan Kitten, Nursing mommas, dogs, etc... Even for single days or weekends we are very flexible any of your time is greatly appreciated. If you are interested in fostering check the box below.

I certify that I am at least 18 years old OR have guardian approval below.

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Get in touch with Happy Paws Animal Rescue to learn more about our mission and how you can help. Reach out to us via email, phone, or social media.

Happy Paws Animal Rescue

San Diego and Baja Area

adoptme.happypaws@gmail.com

619.986.5045

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