Volunteers keep tails wagging 365 days a year. If you’re ready to make pets smile,  follow the steps below:

1. Check out the current volunteer needs below. If you don’t see a position that’s a good match today, check back at a later date. CHS does not keep a waiting list.

2. See a position that interests you? Watch the Virtual Open House video to learn more about becoming a CHS volunteer. This is a requirement before you apply.

3. Watched the video? Liked what you saw? Now it’s time to Apply to Volunteer. Make sure to specify the role and shift that interest you. Selected applicants will be invited in for an interview. CHS is not able to process applications that do not meet the basic requirements.

You need to be 18 or older to volunteer. Under 18? Don’t worry! You can still get involved.

Complete mandatory service for court.

Laundry Room Assistants

The Westport adoption center is looking for reliable volunteers to assist in our busy laundry room. Volunteers wash and fold pet bedding and clean and disinfect dishes, toys and other pet items utilizing a commercial dishwasher. Volunteers play a vital role in cutting down on the spread of illness by making sure all items are clean and sanitary.

Requirements: 18+, have active health insurance, be in good physical condition, able to work independently or with the assistance of a job coach.

Commitment: 2 hours per week on a set-schedule for at least 6 months

Open Shifts:
Mondays 9AM-11AM or 2:30PM-4:30PM
Saturdays 9AM-11AM or 2:30PM-4:30PM

Critter Cuddlers

Looking for some critter love in your life? The Westport adoption center is looking for experienced critter owners to spend time socializing and playing with the small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, ferrets, mice, rats, etc.) Some cleaning may be involved. Safety training is provided.

Requirements: 18+, have active health insurance, comfortable working around all types of small animals, be in good physical condition, able to work independently with limited supervision, able to follow verbal and written instructions and effectively communicate with staff, other volunteers and the public.

Commitment: 2 hours per week on a set-schedule for at least 6 months

Open Shifts:
Sundays 2:30PM-4:30PM
Mondays 2:30PM-4:30PM
Tuesdays 11:30AM-1:30PM or  2:30PM-4:30PM
Wednesdays 11:30AM-1:30PM
Fridays 11:30AM-1:30PM or  2:30PM-4:30PM
Saturdays 2:30PM-4:30PM

Cat Cuddlers

Experienced cat enthusiasts are needed to join the volunteer team at the Westport adoption center. Volunteers provide socialization and exercise for the cats during their stay and assist with keeping the cages clean and tidy. Safety training is provided.

Requirements: 18+, have active health insurance, comfortable working around all types of cats, be in good physical condition, able to work independently with limited supervision, able to follow verbal and written instructions and effectively communicate with staff, other volunteers and the public.

Commitment: 2 hours per week on a set-schedule for at least 6 months

Open Shifts:
Tuesdays 9AM-11AM
Wednesdays 9AM-11AM
Thursdays 9AM-11AM
Fridays 9AM-11AM

Dog Walkers

Love dogs? The Westport adoption center needs experienced dog owners to join the volunteer team. Volunteers walk and socialize the dogs during their stay. Volunteers must be able to manage dogs up to 120 lbs. and must be willing to work with dogs with minor behavioral issues such as pulling on the leash, jumping, and dogs who become overly excited or are reactive towards other dogs. Safety training is provided.

Requirements: 18+, have active health insurance, comfortable working around all types and sizes of dogs, be in good physical condition, able to work independently with limited supervision, able to follow verbal and written instructions and effectively communicate with staff, other volunteers and the public.

Commitment: 2 hours per week on a set-schedule for at least 6 months

Open Shifts:
Mondays 11:30AM-1:30PM or 3:30PM-5:30PM
Wednesdays 11:30AM-1:30PM or 3:30PM-5:30PM
Fridays 3:30PM-5:30PM

Animal Enrichment Volunteers

Want to cheer up the animals during their stay? Volunteers are needed to provide mental stimulation for the pets at the Westport adoption center. You’ll get to hand out lots of fun, tasty treats and perform activities such as spraying essential oil sprays and turning on the sound machines.

Requirements: 18+, have active health insurance, comfortable working around all types of animals, be in good physical condition, able to work independently with limited supervision, able to follow verbal and written instructions and effectively communicate with staff, other volunteers and the public.

Commitment: 2 hours per week on a set-schedule for at least 6 months

Open Shifts:
Mondays 9AM-11AM or 2:30PM-4:30PM
Tuesdays 9AM-11AM or 11:30AM-1:30PM
Thursdays 9AM-11AM or 2:30PM-4:30PM
Fridays 9AM-11AM or 11:30AM-1:30PM