The pandemic has changed how many of us view the world these days. We learned what is important and what is not. We are leaning who are the real heroes in our communities. This time of reflection has lead a lot of us to want to give back to our communities as a way to say thank you. This time home alone has also taught us how important our pets are to us. The shelters witnessed record number of adoptions during the first few month of lock down. These tough times have encouraged many of us to give back to both the community and to the animals who bring us comfort. If you are wanting to give your time too, please check out the list of places to volunteer with animals on Ocala.
- Horse Protection Association of Florida: Assist with grooming and care of rescued horses. The HPAF rescues starved, neglected and abandoned horses and rehabs them. They have a renewed life and future with the best of care. Horse experience is recommended and please be aware that some circumstances may be difficult to see. website: hpaf.org phone: 352-466-4366)
- Humane Society of Marion County: The Humane Society of Marion County is a non-profit no-kill shelter dedicated to the care and protection of animals in Marion County. There are many opportunities here including foster parent, thrift store help and more. www.thehsmc.org or 873-7387
- Marion County Animal Services: Dog walkers, cat cuddlers and kong stuffers needed. 671-8700 or friendsofmcas@gmail.com
- Marion Therapeutic Riding Association: Volunteering with MTRA often impacts the volunteers as much as it impacts the clients. Witness the extraordinary physical and psychological benefits of therapeutic horseback riding. 352-732-7300 https://mtraocala.org/volunteer/
- Ocala Wildlife Sanctuary (OWLS): Needs volunteers to help with cage maintenance and yard and garden work. Email: owlsocalainc@hotmail.com or call 352-895-0451)
- Project PUP: In 1987, Project PUP, Inc. began providing pet visits to health-care facilities in Marion County Florida. Their purpose and primary goal is to bring comfort to the ailing, disabled and elderly by taking our gentle, loving pets to visit those who are no longer able to care for or keep their own. Heart warming for all involved however during COVID, this may not be available. 352-615-9277 or email info@projectpupinc.org visit their website http://projectpupinc.org/volunteer/
- Sheltering Hands: Assist with cat care, cat adoptions and special events. 352-840-0663 or www.shelteringhands.org/volunteer
- VOCAL: VOCAL is a nonprofit animal welfare organization, is dedicated to ending the homeless pet problem in Marion County. But, we could never be successful without our volunteers. If you are passionate about helping animals and pets in need in Ocala and Marion County, we invite you to volunteer with us at VOCAL. We have a variety of volunteer positions available, which you can select when you fill out our VOCAL volunteer application. From animal transporting and adoption events, to administrative, computer skills and fundraising, VOCAL needs your help to make an impact in our community.
Please reach out to any of these places to volunteer with animals in Ocala. If you can volunteer your time that is great! If you can contribute monitary donations, they welcome that as well! If you decide to foster, please see pet friendly places in Ocala.
Thank you all for your willingness to make this world a better place!
