Animal Welfare Volunteering in United States

At International Volunteer HQ (IVHQ), we unite people from over 96 countries who want to make a meaningful difference while exploring the world. With 300+ projects in 40+ destinations, IVHQ offers the widest selection of volunteer programs globally from Teaching and Childcare to Wildlife Conservation, Medical Outreach, and Environmental Sustainability. Since 2007, IVHQ has supported over 155,000 volunteers on life-changing journeys. We specialize in fully-hosted volunteer trips that are safe, affordable, and accessible—starting from just $20 per day. Your experience includes airport pick-up, accommodation, meals, and round-the-clock support from our local teams. With flexible booking options and no change fees, planning your volunteer adventure has never been easier. Our programs run year-round and are available for 1 to 24 weeks across Africa, Asia, Europe, the Pacific, South and Central America, North America, the Caribbean, and the Middle East. Volunteering with IVHQ is about more than giving back; it’s about growing, learning, and building genuine global connections.

GoEco is one of the world’s top volunteer organizations, with award-winning and ethical programs selected by sustainable travel experts. Since 2006, tens of thousands of volunteers have taken part in projects and internships worldwide, focusing on wildlife and marine conservation, education, and medical initiatives. GoEco operates in over 50 countries, providing unique cultural immersive experiences that aim to make a positive impact on the environment and society. The organization also offers internships and academic programs for students. GoEco provides safe and meaningful experiences while promoting sustainable travel and reducing carbon emissions.

Find out why more and more people are choosing to become a Love Volunteer! Love Volunteers is the most affordable way to volunteer and help local communities in developing countries! Why are we cheaper than other organisations? Firstly, we are just a handful of passionate people working hard to help volunteers and local communities around the world. We don't have huge overheads - no company cars, no downtown office - we're just volunteers who knew we could do a better job. Secondly, we work with local organisations wherever we can to keep administration costs to a minimum and also to feed as much money and skills into the local communities where we operate. All of Love Volunteers partner organisations have been fully vetted to ensure that, not only does a genuine need for assistance exist, but that the environments that we place our volunteers are safe and of high quality. Choose from one or more of our 200+ amazing community-based programs in 37 developing countries around the world. Every program has been personally visited by one of our dedicated staff members and is regularly audited to ensure it meets our high standards in terms of safety, sustainability, and local impact.

Looking to apply your talent and expertise to a good cause? Find a program that matches your interests and skills through Volunteer World! We are the largest volunteer abroad comparison platform around the globe, enabling you to seek and compare offers from major travel agencies as well as smaller grassroots NGOs and local specialists in more than 80 countries. All these with just one click! Find projects in wildlife, teaching, community development, and several other areas. Simply choose your desired destination and desired travel date, and our search engine will compare the best volunteer abroad programs on your behalf. Whether you wish to gain experience at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa or teach English at a monastery in Nepal, we've got you covered. Volunteer World guarantees a quick and easy application. We will guide you through this process, as well as help plan your next meaningful trip. We provide free access to quality-checked projects and flexible options. And if anything goes wrong, we've got your back with our qualified support team and our refund guarantee.

Journey through Hawaii, Fiji, and New Zealand on a 10-week adventure that blends exploration, cultural immersion, and personal growth. Surf volcanic coastlines, hike through lush rainforests, and volunteer on conservation projects that protect Polynesian ecosystems and honor Indigenous traditions. Engage in meaningful cultural exchange—learn traditional crafts, connect with local elders, and experience daily life through a lens of respect and curiosity. This isn’t just travel; it’s hands-on learning with real impact. Whether you're supporting reforestation efforts or participating in community-based initiatives, your contributions are grounded in ethical partnerships. With leadership development, guided reflection, and a close-knit group of peers, you'll build confidence, skills, and a clearer sense of purpose. Whether you’re on a gap year, seeking academic credit, building your resume, or craving deeper connection, this journey offers challenge, insight, and transformation. Explore with intention. Return with purpose. Reach out to Learn More!

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime! Volunteers For Peace (a Vermont-based nonprofit) can place you on a team of international volunteers who contribute to a meaningful community service project designed, planned, and hosted by local partners. We offer the most affordable projects and the best way to meet people from all over the world. Work project types vary by country but may include environmental and wildlife conservation, historic preservation, educational and language learning, archaeology, organic farming, and arts and festivals. We also have social services projects, which could involve working with children, the elderly, or refugees. Projects are designed to combine service with recreational activities and cultural exchange – whether by visiting local beaches, learning local dances, meeting local officials, or volunteering with residents at the place you’re visiting. Each project is unique, but all bring people together for the most meaningful travel experience imaginable. Please note that VFP can only place US Citizens. This is due to our agreements with our international partners.

Join Operation Paws for Homes (OPH) to make a significant impact on the lives of rescued dogs and cats. Volunteers support a range of activities, from adoption coordination and event support to fostering and fundraising. This program is perfect for individuals passionate about animal welfare and community service. Responsibilities and opportunities: Adoption Coordination Events Fostering Grants and Fundraising Marketing and Public Relations Transportation Interested volunteers can apply by visiting the Operation Paws for Homes volunteer page. The application process includes an application form and participation in a virtual volunteer orientation. Volunteering with Operation Paws for Homes offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of rescue animals. Your dedication will help provide these pets with the care and support they need to find their forever homes. Join us in our mission to save lives and create happy endings for dogs and cats.

Join Paws With A Cause as a group volunteer to support their mission of providing assistance dogs to individuals with disabilities. Groups can engage in a variety of projects such as constructing equipment, assisting with cleaning, office work, and creating enrichment opportunities for dogs. This program is ideal for corporate teams, clubs, or groups of friends looking for meaningful team-building activities. Responsibilities: Campus Beautification: Garden, paint, and maintain grounds and facilities. Office Help: Assist with clerical tasks like filing and preparing mailings. Canine Enrichment: Create engaging activities for dogs. Cleaning: Support the Care Team by maintaining a clean environment for the dogs. Dog Exercise and Play: Provide exercise and playtime for dogs in outdoor exercise yards. Construction Projects: Help with campus construction projects. Volunteering as a group with Paws With A Cause offers a unique opportunity to support the mission of providing assistance dogs while engaging in team-building activities. Your group's efforts will help improve the lives of individuals with disabilities and create a positive impact on the community.

The National Marine Sanctuary Foundation engages communities and partners across the United States to preserve and protect the natural and cultural resources within the National Marine Sanctuary System. Through its volunteering program, the Foundation offers opportunities to contribute to conservation and heritage projects, public education and outreach initiatives, and to support advocacy for policy that safeguards marine environments. They are a key advocate for U.S. protected waters, dedicated to conserving marine environments through education, outreach, and community engagement. Volunteers are expected to be passionate about marine conservation, with a willingness to participate in both field and community activities. No specific prior experience is required, though a background in marine biology, environmental policy, or education may be beneficial. Join our efforts at the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation to protect and preserve the nation's marine sanctuaries. Your involvement will not only support marine health and conservation but also empower communities and policymakers to sustainably manage our natural marine resources.

Join Marine Life Studies (MLS) to support marine wildlife research, conservation, and education. Volunteers play a crucial role in various programs including animal care, research, education, and outreach initiatives. Volunteers receive comprehensive training in marine research techniques, animal care, and public engagement. Opportunities for skill development and leadership roles are available. MLS offers a supportive environment with ongoing education and team-building activities. Ideal Candidates: Passionate about marine conservation. Commit to a minimum of six months of service. Reliable, responsible, and able to commit to regular shifts. Good communication skills for educational and outreach roles. Physically fit for fieldwork and animal care tasks. Volunteering with MLS offers the chance to make a significant impact on marine wildlife conservation while gaining valuable skills and experiences. So, join us today!

Become an ASPCA Advocacy Volunteer to help improve laws for animals and mobilize your community. Volunteers work behind the scenes to lobby for animal-friendly legislation, engage in public policy, and support the ASPCA’s mission to protect animals. This program is perfect for those passionate about animal welfare and advocacy. Responsibilities: Regional Advocacy Field Team (RAFT): Lobby for animal-friendly legislation and engage your community. District Captains: Lead local legislative campaigns and collaborate with policymakers. Horse Action Team (HAT): Advocate for equine welfare and support efforts to ban horse slaughter. Driving social media advocacy campaigns Supporting ballot measure work Sending personal letters to your lawmakers Volunteering with the ASPCA Advocacy Volunteer Leader Program offers a unique opportunity to influence public policy and advance animal protection. Join a dedicated team of advocates working to create a better world for animals.

Experience a rewarding and team-building volunteer opportunity at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Located in the stunning red rock canyons of southern Utah, the sanctuary is home to up to 1,600 animals. Volunteers support various projects essential for maintaining the sanctuary grounds and ensuring the safety and well-being of the animals. Responsibilities: Landscaping: Weeding and groundskeeping. Trail Maintenance: Creating and maintaining trails. Animal Care: Mucking pastures and deep cleaning animal areas. Transport Preparation: Preparing vehicles for animal transports. Facilities Upkeep: Sanding and painting projects. Requirements: Minimum age: 14 years (with supervision for minors). Group size: 6-12 people. Physical capability for outdoor tasks. Interested groups can contact Best Friends to arrange volunteer opportunities by emailing [email protected] or calling 435-319-0622. Volunteering as a group at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to contribute to animal welfare while fostering team spirit and camaraderie. Your group's efforts will help ensure the sanctuary remains a safe and welcoming haven for its animal residents.

Join the National Marine Life Center (NMLC) to support the rehabilitation and release of stranded marine mammals and sea turtles. Volunteers are essential to the success of our mission, contributing to animal care, education, administration, fundraising, and facility maintenance. Volunteers gain hands-on experience, access to continuing education, discounts in the gift shop, and participation in appreciation events. Comprehensive training is provided, including virtual reading materials, quizzes, and on-site "shadow shift" training. Before proceeding with training and scheduling, volunteers must pay a Volunteer Training Fee of $35.00. We ask that volunteers commit to at least six months of service, with minimum hourly requirements depending on your volunteer position. Volunteering with NMLC offers the chance to make a significant impact on marine wildlife conservation while gaining valuable skills and experiences. Join us today!

Join the Humane Society of the United States as a Humane Policy Volunteer Leader to advance crucial federal, state, and local animal protection legislation. Volunteers build professional relationships with legislators, submit comments on regulations, and mobilize their communities to advocate for animal welfare. Responsibilities: Legislative Advocacy: Develop relationships with legislators and support animal protection priorities. Community Engagement: Encourage others to join advocacy efforts. Public Representation: Assist state directors, represent the organization at events, and provide testimony at public meetings. Requirements: At least 18 years. Must be willing to register to vote (if eligible). Commit to a minimum of four hours per month for one year. Complete an interview, background check, and submit required paperwork. Volunteering as a Humane Policy Volunteer Leader offers a unique opportunity to influence public policy and advance animal protection. By joining this program, you will be empowered to make a significant impact in your community and across the country. Become a key player in the fight for humane laws and policies.

Join The Grey Muzzle Organization in their mission to support senior dogs through volunteer opportunities. Volunteers play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of elderly dogs, providing them with the care and support they need. This program is ideal for dog lovers who want to make a meaningful impact on the lives of senior dogs. Responsibilities: Fundraising Support: Assist with fundraising campaigns and events. Community Outreach: Promote awareness about the needs of senior dogs. Administrative Assistance: Help with office tasks and donor communications. Interested volunteers can apply by visiting The Grey Muzzle Organization's volunteer page. The process includes filling out an application form and attending an orientation session. Volunteering with The Grey Muzzle Organization offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to support senior dogs in need. Your efforts will help provide these dogs with the care and love they deserve in their golden years. Join us in our mission to improve the lives of senior dogs across the country.

Join Wags and Walks in their mission to rescue and rehome dogs in need. Volunteers play a vital role in various aspects of the organization, from direct animal care to supporting events and administrative tasks. This program is perfect for animal lovers who want to make a meaningful impact on the lives of rescue dogs. Responsibilities: Animal Care: Help with feeding, cleaning, and exercising dogs. Adoption Events: Assist in setting up, managing, and promoting adoption events. Administrative Support: Help with office tasks and data entry. Community Outreach: Raise awareness about the importance of dog rescue and adoption. Fostering: Provide temporary homes for dogs awaiting adoption. Interested volunteers can apply by visiting the Wags and Walks volunteer page. The process includes an application form, an interview, and a volunteer orientation session. Volunteering with Wags and Walks offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to support rescue dogs in need. Your dedication and care will help provide these animals with a second chance at a loving home. Join us in our mission to save lives and create happy endings for dogs.

The Animal Foundation in Las Vegas offers a variety of rewarding volunteer opportunities to help save and improve the lives of lost and homeless animals. Volunteers can participate in numerous tasks, such as walking dogs, cleaning kennels, socializing timid animals, and assisting with events. The foundation values the unique talents and passions of each volunteer, ensuring a fulfilling experience that benefits both the animals and the community. Volunteers are required to be at least 18 years old to handle animals, though opportunities exist for younger individuals with non-animal tasks. A commitment of 50 hours over six months is necessary, with a minimum of two shifts per month.

Animal Assisted Happiness (AAH) operates entirely with the help of volunteers and is actively seeking youth and adult volunteers. If you have a passion for youth and animals, there's something for you to do. From caring for and socializing our animals to assisting youth in interacting with them, maintaining our facility, and helping with fundraising and community outreach, your help is invaluable. Our greatest need is for volunteers to take our animals on visits, bringing joy and happiness to the community. Whether you enjoy working directly with animals, assisting with farm chores, or engaging with children, AAH provides a welcoming environment where your efforts will make a significant impact. Volunteering with AAH is a unique chance to become part of a community that fosters compassion, empathy, and connection through meaningful service.

Help make a difference in the lives of rescue animals with The Bond Between's volunteer program in the USA. As a volunteer, you will support the organization in providing care, love, and rehabilitation for animals in need. The program offers a hands-on experience that allows you to contribute directly to the welfare of animals, working alongside dedicated professionals and fellow volunteers. Located in a serene environment, this volunteer program runs year-round, offering flexible durations to suit your schedule. Whether you are available for a few weeks or several months, your efforts will be greatly valued and will significantly impact the lives of these animals. The Bond Between ensures that volunteers are well-prepared and supported throughout their journey, making it a rewarding and enriching experience.

Join Guide Dogs for the Blind as a volunteer puppy raiser and play a vital role in preparing puppies for their future as guide dogs. This rewarding opportunity involves caring for and training a puppy for about a year, ensuring they become confident and well-socialized dogs ready to support individuals who are blind or visually impaired. Responsibilities: Puppy Care: Provide daily care, socialization, and basic training. Training: Attend regular training sessions and follow the provided training guide. Socialization: Expose the puppy to various environments and experiences to prepare them for their future role. Requirements: Minimum age: 9 years (with adult supervision for minors). Ability to attend regular training sessions. A secure and safe home environment. Commitment to care for and train the puppy for approximately one year. Volunteering as a puppy raiser with Guide Dogs for the Blind offers a unique and fulfilling experience that makes a profound difference in the lives of individuals with visual impairments. Your dedication will help transform a puppy into a capable guide dog, providing independence and companionship to someone in need.