Join the Junior Volunteers – Helping Hounds Program at Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center!

Are you ready to inspire a love for animals and foster a positive impact? The Junior Volunteers – Helping Hounds Program at the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center is the perfect opportunity for students aged 9 to 13 to learn, grow, and make a difference in the lives of pets in need.

What is the Helping Hounds Program?

This dynamic, hands-on program spans 8 weeks and offers 16 hours of service and learning, culminating in a Volunteer Service Letter and a Certificate of Completion. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to explore the world of animal care and welfare while contributing directly to the happiness and well-being of pets.

Program Highlights

Every week, participants will engage in exciting, interactive activities designed to provide practical experience and knowledge:

• Explore Animal Health: Learn about canine and feline anatomy, physiology, and common illnesses.
• Work with the Veterinary Team: Conduct medical observation rounds alongside our experts.
• Prepare Pets for Adoption: Socialize animals and help them get ready for their new homes.
• Create Sensory Enrichment: Design fun, stimulating items to enhance the pets’ quality of life.
• Hands-On Animal Care: Clean and set up dog kennels and cat condos for new arrivals.
• Understand Adoptions: Discover how we match pets with loving families.
• Witness a Spay/Neuter Surgery: Gain insights into veterinary care at our onsite clinic.
• Learn Animal Behavior: Recognize body language and behavior for safe, positive interactions.

This unique program combines education, compassion, and real-world experience to empower young animal lovers to make a lasting impact.

Program Details

• Cost: $125 (includes a Helping Hounds program t-shirt)
• Schedule: Wednesdays, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
• Cancellations must be received and confirmed a minimum of two weeks before the first day of the Helping Hounds session to receive a refund a $15 refund fee will be assessed for each cancellation.

Why Choose the Helping Hounds Program?

This program is more than just an introduction to animal care – it’s a chance for students to develop skills, build confidence, and contribute to the lives of homeless pets.

Don’t miss out! Enroll your student in the Junior Volunteers – Helping Hounds Program at the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center today. Together, we’ll create brighter futures for animals in need.

Register for one of our Sessions: 

Still need more information?  Email us at or 951-344-1032.

Many middle schools in Riverside County are now requiring Service Hours. Please note, that the Helping Hounds Program may not count toward the mandatory requirements. It is up to the student/parent to check with their school’s Advisor or Counselor to find out what is required of the student to complete their Service Hours. However, if a student’s school does not require them, students are welcome to apply to the Helping Hounds Program at Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center to gain personal growth to later use on college applications, put on their resume when they reach working age, etc.

We believe every child should have the opportunity to learn compassion, kindness, and responsibility through animals — regardless of financial circumstances.

FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Thanks to the generosity of Natale Sandgren, the Mary S. Roberts Pet Adoption Center now offers a Humane Education Scholarship Fund to help children participate in our education programs who may need financial assistance.

If your child dreams of joining our camps, workshops, or youth volunteer programs but cost is a concern, we encourage you to apply for a scholarship today.

Apply online or download, print and mail to

Together, we’re inspiring the next generation of animal advocates — one child at a time.