586-731-9210
Humane Society of Macomb

Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with the Humane Society of Macomb. We appreciate your support and look forward to welcoming you to the shelter. Please complete the form below to begin the process of becoming a volunteer and helping the animals in our care. We are looking for help in the shelter Monday-Friday!

NOTE: Please allow up to 7 days before you hear back from our Volunteer Coordinator.

Volunteer Application Form

Please note: the shelter is not a peanut-free zone. Peanut butter is used throughout the shelter for animal enrichment.

Frequently Asked Questions

volunteer faq
Do I get to walk the dogs immediately?

Before working hands-on with the animals, we ask that you log at least 10 hours doing laundry and/or dishes. This helps you get to know the building, people, and feel more at home before interacting one on one with the animals! After logging those 10 hours, for the safety of our volunteers and the animals, our volunteers are trained before working with our animals. All volunteers must attend an orientation, as well as a hands-on training session before they can begin their service. In order to work directly with the animals proof of an up-to-date tetanus vaccine is required.

How old do you need to be to volunteer?
You must be 13 years of age or older to volunteer with the animals. If you are between 13-15 you must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian who is also part of the volunteer program. If you are under 18 you must have a waiver signed by a parent/legal guardian granting permission for you to serve as a volunteer.
How much time do I need to commit to?
We prefer that you work at least one weekly 2-hour shift, or at least 4 hours of service per month and we request a minimum 4-month commitment
What if I cannot volunteer that much?
We understand. Everyone is busy. Beyond working with the animals, we have many different opportunities from days of service to being an advocate and a social media ambassador. Reach out to our volunteer coordinator to discover how your time and talent can best help the shelter.
What are the physical requirements for a volunteer?
We do request that volunteers who work with the animals are able to lift, bend and safely handle animals of all sizes, especially dogs over 40 lbs. We appreciate volunteers who are comfortable handling animals with unknown backgrounds as well as being exposed to animal allergens and you must be comfortable working with and handling animals of varying temperaments. If you cannot work directly with the animals but are still interested in volunteering there are non animal positions available and needed.
What do I need to do before I start?

All volunteers must attend an orientation, as well as a hands-on training session before they can begin their service. In order to work directly with the animals proof of an up-to-date tetanus vaccine is required.

What if I am looking for a court-ordered community service position?
We do have opportunities for those looking to fulfill court ordered community service. Be sure to visit the court-ordered community service page for more information.
What if I am looking to achieve a set amount of high school community service hours and not volunteer past those hours?
High schoolers looking to complete community service hours for the National Honors Society, group or graduation requirements should take a look at our Community Service page and fill out the corresponding application.
What kind of positions are available?
  • Canine Companions- Volunteers will provide exercise and much needed time away from their kennel by taking the dogs on walks throughout the grounds of the facility. This is a physical, all-season job that can sometimes be a little dirty. Many of the dogs are large and untrained. Volunteers should be comfortable handing dogs of all breeds, size and activity level. Most of the dogs here at the shelter are over 40lbs.
  • Feline Friends- Providing enrichment and socialization for the cats here at the shelter by al lowing the cat to explore the world outside of their kennel. This experience provides exercise and stimulation for the cats and helps with their overall health and wellness.
  • Dishes and Laundry- Assist in the morning or evening clean-up efforts by washing dishes and putting them away. Washing dirty laundry and folding and putting away clean laundry. This also may include organizing the laundry area.
  • Additional positions are available based on skills and interest.
Do I need a tetanus shot to volunteer with the animals?

In order to work directly with the animals, proof of an up-to-date tetanus vaccine is required.