Join the Team

About Us:

Ruff House Rescue is a certified 501(c)(3) non profit rescue organization in Nassau County, Long Island NY. We are a foster-based network of animal lovers who seek to save as many lives as possible, as fast as we can. As a largely volunteer-based organization, we depend on the generosity of our Ruff House family to do this life changing work.

Our Vision is to Go BIG so they can go home! Going BIG means that our fosters and volunteers always show up in a big way and are incredibly hands-on, passionate, and dedicated, whether they are volunteering remotely, at our kennel, or at our adoption events.

How do I apply to foster?

Complete our foster application! We’ll be in touch in a few days.

How do I apply to volunteer?

Complete our volunteer application! We’ll be in touch in a few days.

What are the benefits of volunteering?

When you volunteer with Ruff House, you’re part of a family all working towards our Mission to rescue animals in need and help create a world where the kind and rewarding experience of adoption is the standard. You’ll make friends and have fun while helping us save lives!

Will I be a good fit?

We literally depend on our volunteers to help us save more lives.Please keep these things in mind before applying.

  • We encourage all of our volunteers to be positive and professional with each other as well as our potential adopters, fosters, other volunteers, donors, and the public.
  • Can you volunteer at least 4 hours or more of remote time per month, or attend at least 1-2 in-person event per month?
  • We always want to ensure the safety of our team, our animals, and the confidentiality of personal information.

What types of animals would I work with?

We rescue both cats and dogs. Our cats are housed at Petco Oceanside and our dogs in our kennel location.

IN PERSON OPPORTUNITIES

Kennel – One of our biggest needs is having a reliable base of volunteers who take ownership of the operations at our kennel. This is where most of our dogs start out.

Adoption Events – We do adoption events every weekend, and participate in several super adoption events throughout the year.

Cat Care at Petco – We have a relationship with the Petco in Oceanside where our cats are kept in habitats. Basic maintenance every day and socialization really helps these cats.

Transport – If you can drive then you can help save lives. We often need help transporting for our weekend events, and sometimes for special rescue missions.

Photography – One of the best ways to help get our animals adopted more quickly is by taking great photographs

Thrifty Pawz – We are fortunate to have a thrift shop where all proceeds go to the rescue. If you can help solicit for goods or to staff the shop, let us know!

REMOTE OPPORTUNITIES

Application Screening Teams – As one of the largest rescues in the area, we receive thousands of applications every year. Our screeners review each application and help us find the best matches for every animal we save.

Social Media Team – Help us save more lives by growing our social presence and leveraging each platform to engage our fosters, volunteers, donors, and potential adopters.

Fundraising Team – Have experience with fundraising or event planning? Our lifesaving operations depend on this team to raise as much money as possible to save more lives!

Marketing & Visual Team – Experience in graphic design, copywriting, web design or support, brand development, PR, advertising, marketing, or other transferable skills?

Finance Team – Good with accounting systems? Help our team carefully and responsibly manage our funding to help save more lives, more quickly.

If you have any questions, email us at volunteer@ruffhouserescue.org.