2 min read
How many times have you seen that Sarah McLachlan animal cruelty ad and teared up? You can help those lonely, adorable puppies get exercise, stay healthy, and find homes by partnering with one of these local animal rights organizations.
350 South Huntington Ave., Boston
Heath Street, Stony Brook, Jackson Square T stops, on-site parking available
617-522-5055
bostonvolunteer@mspca.org
The MSPCA-Angell is committed to stopping animal suffering due to cruelty. When Boston-area animals are abandoned or rescued from abusive homes, the MSPCA shelters and advocates for them. The organization also finds animals new homes through adoption programs. On a broader scale, the MSPCA works to effect legislation in favor of animals and to promote animal rights education throughout the United States.
The MSPCA needs you to play with dogs. Well, not just that, but it’s on the list. The Boston adoption center looks for volunteers to feed the animals, educate visitors, facilitate adoptions, and clean the center. Volunteers can choose whether to work with cats, dogs, or other animals. Duties can get as intensive as assisting in medication administration or answering questions for owners after spay and neuter surgeries.
Check out the list of available positions, decide what’s best for you, then complete the online application form. The Boston MSPCA is a popular volunteer spot; it gets about 200 volunteer applications a month and can only accept 100 new volunteers a month. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t apply, but it may take a little time for the right opportunity to become available. You can also check other clinics around Massachusetts that are less inundated.
10 Chandler St., Boston
Back Bay, Arlington, Broadway T stops, on-site parking available
617-426-9170
Brittany Monteiro, volunteer supervisor, bmonteiro@arlboston.org
In addition to providing veterinary care and adoption services, the Animal Rescue League of Boston works with law enforcement organizations to actively investigate crimes against animals. They log thousands of miles each year investigating reports of animal cruelty and abuse. For the Animal Rescue League of Boston, the mission isn’t just to help abandoned animals but to prevent them from being mistreated in the first place.
The Animal Rescue League recruits volunteers to help feed, train, and provide care for the shelter animals, as well as to staff special events and provide general office support. Volunteer opportunities vary with the current need, and there are Dedham and Brewster locations that may have different opportunities. You can also provide a home for foster animals so they get the love and attention they need until they find a permanent family.
Choose your preferred location, and fill out the online volunteer application. A staff member will contact you within seven days if you’re a match for a current opportunity. If need is low, they’ll keep your application on file for a year to fill future positions. Once you’ve been matched, you’ll attend orientation before starting.
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