Parent-child teams can help animals

Question: My 10-year-old son and I discussed the benefits of volunteering, and we decided we'd like to help the Hawaiian Humane Society. What kind of work can we do together?

Answer: Approximately 15 percent of the Hawaiian Humane Society's volunteers are parent-child teams. Not only do they make wonderful contributors, these volunteers enjoy quality family time together working on a shared passion.

Families can help with a wide range of important services, from grooming animals to walking dogs to helping ensure that the shelter is a clean and happy place for the animals and visitors.

If you choose to walk or groom dogs, your help provides social interaction, positive attention, exercise and mental stimulation.

Q: Do you need help in a particular area now?

A: Right now, there is a need for volunteers willing to help tidy and clean the Cat House, dog kennels and the rabbit and guinea pig pens. And there is an ongoing need for volunteers to help us welcome visitors and socialize dogs and cats.

Other opportunities for family volunteers include temporary foster care provided in your home. Families can also help other families in need with Pals, a program that provides temporary pet care. A pet owner who is hospitalized, for example, might need volunteers to feed their cat, walk their dog or other services.

Q: How do we sign up?

A: Applications are posted at www.hawaiianhumane.org, or call 356-2256. Forms may be faxed to 955-6034 or mailed to Hawaiian Humane Society Volunteer Center, 2700 Waialae Ave., Honolulu 96826.

Children ages 7 to 13 may volunteer with a parent or other responsible adult. Those age 14 or older may work on their own. All volunteers attend a training session, and parent-child teams must participate together.

The society's volunteer positions require a six-month minimum commitment, one three-hour scheduled shift per week and additional training as needed.