Our volunteers are essential to our success! There are many ways that you can help, including working with the animals, at home, or at off-site events. Click here to see our list of opportunities!


Getting started is simple! Simply contact Kaye Makarski, our Volunteer Coordinator, to discuss your interests and Kaye will match them up with our volunteer opportunities. If you are interested in volunteering with the animals, you will also need to fill out an application with Suffolk Animal Control.*


All volunteers must be 16 years of age or older to work with SHS. Children between the ages of 13 and 15 are welcome to volunteer; however, an adult must accompany them at all times. (We love parent and child volunteer teams!) Volunteers who want to work with the animals must be 18 years of age or older or be accompanied by a parent.

Volunteers are asked to pay a $15 fee to offset the cost of volunteer shirts, nametags and training. Volunteers must be able to commit at least 6 hours per month for 6 months.


Volunteers who wish to work with the animals will work at Suffolk Animal Control. which requires the submission of an additional volunteer application. Click here to download Suffolk Animal Control's Volunteer Application. For more information, click here or call (757) 514-7856.