In Shelter Volunteering
In order to become an active volunteer for the Liberty Humane Society potential volunteers must fill out a volunteer application (which can be downloaded from our website!) and attend a volunteer orientation. There are many ways our volunteers can help the animals as well as the staff of the Liberty Humane Society. LHS is always in need of volunteers to walk the dogs and socialize the cats - especially during the week when most of our volunteers are working. However, we have many talented volunteers who help us in many other ways other than walking the dogs or playing with the cats. Volunteers must be at least 14 years age to volunteer at the shelter. Volunteers 14 - 16 can handle cats and volunteers 16 - 18 can walk dogs (with parental supervision). Below are some of our volunteer opportunities at LHS:
Animal Caregiver - help staff feed and clean animals in the morning and help spot clean throughout the day and keep animals comfortable.
Dog Socialization - walk, socialize and practice basic obedience skills with the shelter dogs.
Cat Socialization - socialize, exercise, groom and provide comfort and care to shelter cats.
P.A.L. - this special and unique program was developed by LHS' Director of Operations, Aurora Piacentino. P.A.L. (Pit bulls Are Loving) is a program intended to address the specific needs of pit bulls in shelters. Pit Bulls have specific traits that make them unsuited to prolonged stays in shelters. Because of breed stigma however, that is inevitably what they face. This program aims to make pit bulls more attractive to adopters by providing them with obedience training and ample exercise to help satisfy their needs . The program also intends to foster a positive image and combat the myths and prejudices often associated with pit bulls. LHS recommends that you volunteer at the shelter for three months before participating in additional volunteer training for the P.A.L. program. To learn more about this program, please visit its website at NJPals.org
Clerical Help - LHS always need assistance with data entry, answering phones, photocopying and filing!
General Housekeeping & Maintenance - daily chores at the shelter include ensuring all animals have toys, treats, water, and food if appropriate, bathing dogs, spot cleaning cages as needed, organizing supplies and donations, doing laundry, and more!
Skilled Labor - The shelter is always in need of "handy" volunteers who can help paint and do repairs. Volunteers with caprentry, electrical or plumbing skills are always welcomed!
