Volunteer.
Based in Southern Ontario, Fetch + Releash is proud to be a volunteer run, not-for-profit dog rescue. Many of our volunteer opportunities are remote - allowing you to contribute from anywhere in Canada!
Volunteer Testimonies
“I volunteer with Fetch + Releash because I am truly blessed that so much joy, happiness, love, unity and passion comes from volunteering.
— Chantelle
“I honestly cannot even put into words how grateful I am to Fetch + Releash for all that they have given me!”
— Tori
“I never in a million years could have grasped just how much my life, and myself as a person would change - for the better.
— Michelle
Volunteer FAQ
Still have questions? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to our volunteer team at volunteer@fetchandreleash.ca
+ How do I sign up to volunteer?
You can fill out our volunteer application form online for our available opportunities listed below. Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed and we will reach out if any clarification is needed. From there, the appropriate team manager will contact you to schedule a short interview to discuss the role in more detail.
+ Do I need any prior experience with dogs?
Experience requirements depend on the role. Positions that involve dogs either directly or indirectly (such as Fostering or Foster Coordinator roles) require prior dog experience and a basic understanding of dog behaviour and care.Roles focused on behaviour or training require certification in dog training or behaviour.
+ What’s the time commitment for volunteers?
Time commitments vary by role and can range from casual involvement to a minimum of 1–2 hours per week or more.
+ Do you accept volunteers through school-based programs or student work placements?
At this time, we are unable to accept volunteers through school-based programs or student work placements. All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.
Available Volunteer Positions
We’re currently recruiting for the roles below, but we can keep your application for future openings. Have a skill or idea for how you’d like to help our rescue? Email us anytime at volunteer@fetchandreleash.ca
If you require any accommodations during the recruitment process, please let our team know when you're contacted for an interview. We appreciate your enthusiasm and hope to work with you soon!
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Position Summary:
Volunteers are the back bone of our organization’s success and it’s important to us each one feels valued. We are seeking a creative and organized marketing and communications professional to support volunteer engagement through meaningful digital content and storytelling
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Collect, organize, and format newsletter content from all teams using a pre‑designed Canva template to produce the biannual volunteer newsletter featuring volunteer stories, impact, and updates.
Assist with website updates and basic SEO practices to enhance volunteer engagement and information accessibility, while collaborating with the Digital Engagement Lead to develop, publish, and maintain volunteer‑focused blog content highlighting volunteer experiences, educational resources, organizational impact, and community stories.
Collaborate with the Digital Engagement Lead to identify and develop content opportunities that support volunteer engagement, recognition, recruitment, and retention initiatives, ensuring consistency in tone, branding, and messaging.
Support the implementation of the Digital Engagement strategy through the creation and maintenance of volunteer-focused digital communications and content
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 0
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of the Volunteer Engagement team and under the guidance and direction of the Digital Engagement Lead, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
100% Remote
Training provided; a computer with a camera is required.
Available for virtual meetings when required.
Volunteer commitment 1-2 hours per week
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Minimum 1-3 Years of Professional Experience in Marketing, Communications, Digital Engagement, Public Relations, Content Creation, or a Related Field. Brings a strong foundation in content strategy, audience engagement, and digital storytelling to ensure all volunteer‑focused communications are polished, purposeful, and aligned with organizational goals.
Strong Written Communication Skills Able to craft clear, engaging, and mission‑aligned content for newsletters, blog posts, and website content. Comfortable adapting tone and style to maintain a consistent organizational voice.
Content Creation & Storytelling Experience Demonstrated ability to create compelling, community-focused content that celebrates volunteers, communicates organizational impact, and strengthens engagement
Proficiency with Design Tools (Canva Preferred) Capable of producing visually appealing graphics, newsletter layouts, blog visuals, and branded content using Canva.
Experience with Website Platforms (Squarespace Preferred) Comfortable assisting with website updates, blog publishing, and basic website optimization using Squarespace.
Basic Understanding of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) familiarity with content optimization best practiced, including headings, metadata, keywords, and content structure to improve website visibility and usability
Attention to Detail & Strong Organizational Skills Able to collect, track, and organize newsletter submissions from multiple teams while meeting deadlines and ensuring accuracy across all published materials.
Understanding of Branding & Messaging Consistency Maintains a cohesive voice, tone, and visual identity across newsletters, website content, blog articles, and volunteer communication
Reliability & Accountability Demonstrates follow‑through, meets deadlines, and communicates proactively to ensure content projects move forward smoothly and collaboratively.
Open and Honest Communication Style Comfortable sharing updates, asking clarifying questions, and collaborating transparently with the Digital Engagement Lead and volunteer teams.
Collaborative Mindset Works effectively with the Engagement Team and other volunteer groups to gather information, support content needs, and ensure communications reflect organizational priorities.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive virtual events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term 1yr+ commitment to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.
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Position Summary:
The Recruitment & Onboarding Lead oversees the entire process including volunteer intake, creating and posting job descriptions, monitoring the recruitment inbox, and reviewing applicants for suitable opportunities. This role routes suitable candidates to the appropriate Team Managers for interviews and manages onboarding for approved volunteers using the established systems and documentation. The Lead also collaborates with the Digital Engagement Team to support recruitment posts and ensure consistent, accurate messaging across channels.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Create and post volunteer job descriptions using established templates, coordinating with Team Managers to confirm role details and posting to approved recruitment channels.
Monitor the recruitment inbox daily for internal and external inquiries ( at least twice per day), respond or redirect as needed, review new applications for basic fit and readiness.
Route screened applicants to the appropriate Team Manager for interviews and next steps, ensuring timely communication and smooth handoff.
Onboard approved volunteers by sending welcome materials, facilitating required steps, and updating volunteer records according to existing systems.
Coordinate with the Digital Engagement Team to provide updated role information, timelines, and priorities for recruitment posts, ensuring consistent branding and messaging.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 1
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of volunteer team and under the guidance and direction of the Volunteer Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Remote
Training provided; a computer with a camera is required
The ability to volunteer 1-2 hour min. per week
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Minimum 3 years of experience, or a combination of relevant education and practical experience in HR, recruitment, volunteer management, or a related field, with demonstrated involvement in supporting recruitment and onboarding processes
Reliable and committed Demonstrates consistency, follow-through, and accountability in managing the recruitment pipeline and responding to applicants in a timely, professional manner.
Friendly and positive attitude Approaches applicants, volunteers, and team members with warmth, patience, and enthusiasm, helping create a welcoming and supportive volunteer experience.
Open and honest communication style Communicates transparently and respectfully, ensuring expectations, timelines, and next steps are always clear for applicants and team managers.
Strong written and verbal communication skills Able to craft professional messages, respond to inquiries, and collaborate effectively across teams.
Organized and detail‑oriented Comfortable managing multiple applications, inbox inquiries, and onboarding steps while maintaining accuracy and meeting timelines.
Ability to follow established systems and documentation Confident working within existing SOPs, templates, and workflows to ensure consistency and quality across the recruitment and onboarding process.
Collaborative and team‑oriented Works effectively with Team Managers and the Digital Engagement Team to support recruitment needs and maintain alignment across departments.
Tech‑savvy and comfortable with digital tools Familiar with email management, shared drives, forms, and basic tracking tools used in volunteer recruitment and onboarding.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term commitment 1yr+ to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.
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Position Summary:
Our volunteer foster families are the backbone of the Rescue. Behind this amazing foster community is an equally amazing team of volunteers, led by a Foster Manager.
The Foster Manager (FM) will work closely with the Assistant Foster Managers (AFMs) to support the day-to-day management of the “Foster Team”.
As the FM, you’ll wear many different hats from supporting the Assistant Foster Managers, Foster Coordinators, Alumni Dogsitting Coordinators and Fosters to helping with administrative tasks and everything in between! This is a core team role and requires a committed individual willing and able to be “on” (within reason) daily.
Reporting into the Fetch + Releash Partners, the Foster Manager has oversight of the Foster Screeners, Foster Coordinators, Behavioural Support, Transport and Alumni Dogsitting.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
Provide strategic direction to ensure Foster team is structured appropriately to provide sustainable support
Provide monthly reporting to the Partners
Foster Management Support:
Tag-team with AFMs to respond to FC questions in official team channels (i.e. Slack).
Tag-team with AFMs to respond to questions from other teams i.e adoption, vetting, events, etc.
Tag-team with AFMs to respond to and action/resolve escalations from within the foster team and other teams within the rescue
Oversee and actively participate in the foster dog rehome process
Tag-team with AFMs to review and approve new/approved fosters and dogsitters into social media communities and WhatsApp group chats
Foster Coordinator Team Support:
Monitor dogs on behavioral/medical holds
Coach AFMs and FCs through difficult situations/conversations with their fosters
Helping FCs brainstorm ways to promote harder to adopt dogs
Follow up with FCs on lost dog prevention concerns brought to our attention (i.e. improperly fitted collar, dog off leash)
Conduct calls with fosters as needed
Rescue Support:
Liaise with Adoptions team, Events team, Vetting, Photography, Intake team, Volunteer team, Supply team as needed
Attend team meetings
Be visible on Fetch + Releash’s social media (liking, commenting, sharing)
Nominate volunteers for Volunteer of the Month
Maintain ownership and control entitlements to applications and social media accounts
Uphold the Rescue’s values during interactions with the foster community, volunteers and the public at all times.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 10+
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of Foster Team and under the guidance and direction of the Managing Partners, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Remote
Training provided; a computer with a camera is required.
10 hours per week min.
Flexible schedule required
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Dog experience a must! Basic knowledge of dog behavior/training preferred. Must be positive reinforcement based.
Management experience
Proven leadership skills
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Demonstrate empathy for foster families and compassion for the foster dogs
Ability to handle multiple tasks at once and work in a fast paced environment
The ability to remain positive and calm even in stressful situations
A dynamic personality and a passion for rescue!
Excellent organizational skills and a keen attention to detail
A team player attitude
Ability to handle potentially difficult or awkward conversations and ask appropriate questions to gather information
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Must be reliable & committed
Proven ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive virtual events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term commitment 1yr+ to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.
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Position Summary:
Foster families are the heart of our rescue, and behind every great foster is an equally dedicated Foster Coordinator (FC). As an FC, you’ll guide fosters from intake to adoption, offering support through challenges like potty training, leash walking, and behavioral adjustments. You’ll also provide reassurance during emotional moments, and ensuring families feel confident in their journey.
This role is part of a collaborative team of experienced Foster Coordinators, where you’ll share insights, receive support, and work together to create the best possible outcomes for rescue dogs and foster families.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Serve as primary contact for foster families, providing support and ensuring policy compliance.
Coordinate dog attendance for adoption events, foster bios, photo shoots, and post adoption supply returns.
Respond promptly to non urgent communications within 12 hours, urgent situations immediately and ensuring emergency coverage as needed.
Assist with foster placement, vet transport, and other team needs.
Maintain accurate records, complete administrative tasks, and uphold the rescue’s values
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 0
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of the Foster Coordinator team and under the guidance and direction of the Foster Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
100% Remote
Completion of 4 hours of comprehensive training divided into sessions.
Training is delivered virtually; a computer with a camera is required.
The ability to volunteer 3-5 hours per week
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Extensive Dog Experience: Hands-on experience with dogs is essential. A foundational knowledge of canine behavior and positive reinforcement training is required.
Empathetic Leadership: Ability to provide support and guidance to foster families with patience and compassion, ensuring the best possible care for rescue dogs.
Effective Communication & Conflict Resolution: Confidence in navigating sensitive conversations with professionalism, gathering relevant information, and offering solutions with diplomacy.
Strong Interpersonal & Team Leadership Skills: Capable of fostering a collaborative environment, inspiring volunteers, and motivating foster families to provide optimal care.
Reliability & Accountability: A consistent and dependable approach to responsibilities, showing initiative and ownership in all tasks.
Multi-Tasking & Adaptability: Ability to juggle multiple responsibilities effectively in a fast-paced rescue environment while prioritizing urgent needs.
Calm & Solution-Oriented Mindset: Maintains composure and problem-solving abilities in high-stress situations, providing reassurance and direction when challenges arise.
Energetic & Passionate Advocate: A proactive, enthusiastic presence with a deep commitment to rescue work and community engagement.
Organizational Excellence: Detail-oriented and highly organized, ensuring efficient coordination and record-keeping.
Collaborative & Positive Team Player: Works well within a team, encouraging a supportive and inclusive environment for volunteers and foster families.
Technical Proficiency: Skilled in Google Suite (Google Meet, Google Sheets/Docs, Gmail) for managing communication and documentation.
Relationship-Building & Community Engagement: Proven ability to develop strong, lasting connections within the rescue network and foster positive working relationships.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive engagement opportunities for active volunteers.
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Position Summary:
We are looking for an experienced administration professional to manage our foster inbox. This person will be responsible for processing foster applications and answering general inquiries from interested foster applicants.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Managing the foster inbox for incoming applications and inquiries
Reviewing foster applications, and ensuring the application form has been fully completed
Contact foster applicants for missing information, or clarification
Ability to recognize "red flags" in an application
Checking inbox daily and respond to inquiries or refer to the appropriate team if needed
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 0
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of the Foster team and under the guidance and direction of the Assistant Foster Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
100% Remote
Remote training; a computer with a camera is required.
The Team Lead will provide ongoing mentorship and step in with coverage when needed
Time commitment: 2–4 hours per week — Workload varies depending on the number of applications, but volunteers should expect to contribute a few hours weekly.
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Dog experience is a must — Volunteers should have hands-on experience with dogs and feel confident assessing basic behaviour, comfort levels, and suitability for adoption.
Basic knowledge of dog behaviour and training (positive reinforcement required) — Understanding body language, stress signals, and reward‑based training methods is essential. All volunteers must align with our positive reinforcement–only approach.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills — You’ll be speaking with potential fosters, gathering information, and representing the rescue. Clear, friendly, and compassionate communication is key.
Reliable and committed — Consistency ensures a smooth process. Volunteers must be dependable and able to follow through on assigned cases.
Organized and responsive (24–48 hour turnaround) — Adoption inquiries move quickly. Volunteers should be able to manage their time, respond promptly, and keep cases moving forward.
Familiarity with Google Suite — Comfort using Google Meet, Sheets, Docs, and Gmail is required for interviews, documentation, and team communication.
Team player attitude — Collaboration is essential. Volunteers should be supportive, respectful, and willing to work together to ensure the best outcomes for dogs and fosters.
Dynamic personality with a passion for rescue — Enthusiasm, empathy, and a genuine love for helping dogs and people make this role rewarding and impactful.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term 1yr commitment to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.
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Position Summary:
Fetch + Releash is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming dogs in need, and fostering plays a crucial role in that mission. As a Foster Dog Caregiver, you’ll provide a safe, loving, and temporary home for dogs, helping them adjust to home life and prepare for adoption into their forever families.
Many of our dogs need behavioral support to overcome challenges such as anxiety, sensitivity to noise, fearfulness around people, or other stress-related behaviors. Experience with behavior training is essential to help foster dogs build confidence and develop positive habits that will set them up for success in their forever homes.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide a nurturing environment for a foster dog and ensure proper care, including feeding, exercise, and socialization
Transport the dog to vet appointments (if req’d), adoption events, and meet-and-greets
Communicate regularly with a foster coordinator at Fetch + Releash about the dog’s progress and needs
Help with basic training and behavioral support as needed
Support adoption efforts by sharing updates, photos, and observation
Once approved for adoption, craft a fun and honest bio showcasing the dog’s personality, needs, and quirks to find the perfect match
Engage with potential adopters to coordinate home visits and introductions with the foster dog, ensuring their needs align for a successful transition.
Share visit details and observations with the foster coordinator to help determine if the adopter is the right match for the dog.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 0
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of the Foster team and under the guidance and direction of the Foster Coordinator and Foster Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
· Remote
· Training provided
· Foster Dog Caregiver – Time Commitment
Caregivers must commit to fostering a dog for at least two months or longer, depending on the dog's needs, to provide stability and support for their well-being and transition to a permanent home.QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
· Experience with Dogs – Prior experience caring for dogs is required, including knowledge of feeding, exercise, and general care.
· Basic Training & Behavior Support – Understanding of canine behavior and training techniques, particularly for dogs needing behavioral support (e.g., anxiety, fearfulness, socialization).
· Positive Reinforcement Training – Commitment to using positive reinforcement-based training methods only, including reward-based techniques to encourage good behavior, without use of shock, prong collars or other aversive techniques.
· Crate Training Experience – Ability to support crate training as a tool for safety, structure, and comfort for the foster dog.
· Secure & Quieter Outdoor Space – A fully fenced backyard or access to a safe outdoor space is required. Quieter outdoor environments are preferred to assist with decompression and fear management. Outside GTA ONLY
· Strong Interpersonal & Communication Skills – Ability to engage effectively with adopters, rescue coordinators, and fellow volunteers.
· Reliability & Commitment – Dedicated to fulfilling fostering responsibilities and supporting the dog's transition.
· Ability to Handle Multiple Tasks – Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and balancing various responsibilities.
· Calm & Positive Demeanor – Able to remain composed and solution-focused, even in stressful situations.
· Dynamic Personality & Passion for Rescue – Enthusiasm for animal rescue and advocacy, with a proactive attitude toward helping dogs in need.
· Organizational Skills & Attention to Detail – Able to keep track of the dog’s progress, appointments, and important documentation.
· Team Player Attitude – Willingness to collaborate with others in a supportive and constructive way.
· Proficiency in Google Suite – Familiarity with Google Meet, Google Sheets/Docs, and Gmail for communication and tracking foster-related details.
· Proven Ability to Build Relationships – Skilled at establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with adopters, rescue coordinators, and volunteers.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Joining a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and continuous guidance for foster caregivers.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of helping a dog find their forever home.
Exclusive virtual and in-person events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term commitment of 1yr+ to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.
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Position Summary:
Transport Volunteers play a vital role in supporting our rescue operations by safely transporting dogs, supplies, and donations. This role is ideal for individuals who want to make a direct impact but may not be able to commit to weekly volunteer shifts.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Safely transport dogs to and from foster homes, veterinary appointments, or adoption events.
Pick up and deliver high-value donations to designated locations.
Deliver essential supplies to foster homes and transport supplies to adoption events or community activities.
Maintain clear communication regarding availability and assignments.
Adhere to all safety and handling protocols during transport.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
Number of direct reports: 0
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
As part of the Driving team and under the guidance and direction of the Transport Manager, works independently as well as part of a team.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Volunteers will receive Lost Dog Prevention (LDP) training prior to transporting dogs.
Strict compliance with LDP policies is required; failure to follow procedures may result in removal from the transport team.
Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle.
Comfortable handling dogs of varying sizes and temperaments.
Driving in all weather conditions
Ability to lift and carry supplies (up to 40 lbs)
QUALIFICATIONS & ATTRIBUTES
Valid Driver’s License & Reliable Vehicle
Volunteers must have a valid driver’s license and access to a safe, reliable vehicle to ensure the secure and timely transport of dogs, supplies, and donations.Comfortable Handling Dogs
Experience with dogs is an asset, but not required. Volunteers should be comfortable interacting with dogs of varying breeds, sizes, and temperaments and be able to follow safety protocols during transport.Ability to Lift and Carry Supplies (up to 40 lbs)
Some transports may involve loading or unloading bags of food, crates, or event supplies. Volunteers should be physically able to assist with these tasks safely.Strong Communication Skills
Volunteers need to maintain clear communication with the transport and foster teams, promptly confirming availability and providing updates during assignments.Dependability and Punctuality
Dogs often need to arrive at veterinary appointments or adoption events on time. Being reliable and punctual ensures the well-being of the animals and smooth coordination with other volunteers.Commitment to Following Protocols
Volunteers must complete Lost Dog Prevention (LDP) training and strictly follow safety procedures to minimize risks during transport. This commitment ensures both the safety of the dogs and the community.Flexibility
Transport needs vary, and volunteers should be adaptable to last-minute requests or changes while still choosing assignments that fit their schedules.
What Fetch + Releash offers:
Join a community of supportive dog lovers.
Training, resources, and guidance.
Flexible volunteering that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
Rewarding experience of fulfilling our mission to helping dogs find their forever homes.
Exclusive virtual and in-person events for active volunteers only
We ask that only those who can make a serious long term commitment 1yr+ to volunteering with Fetch +Releash apply for this role.