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ANIMALS: Adoption Event Dog Handlers in Downtown

HOSD.org/211sandiego., San Diego, CA, United States


ANIMALS: Adoption Event Dog Handlers in Downtown Help dogs find their forever homes by volunteering at a new adoption event with A Way Home for Dogs (AWHFD) in Downtown San Diego. The more hands they have, the more dogs can attend because they do not place dogs in enclosures at adoption events. They maintain a 1 dog per handler ratio and all dogs are on a leash.

ALL VOLUNTEERS ARE REQUIRED TO STAY FOR THE ENTIRE EVENT. THERE IS ALSO A STRICT NO-PHONE OR HEADPHONE POLICY FOR EVERYONE'S SAFETY.

OPPORTUNITY REQUIREMENTS & IMPORTANT NOTES Key Responsibilities:

Hold leash and supervise assigned dogs throughout the event

Sit under a canopy or walk around the event with the dog

Ensure safety of the dog and attendees (no distractions like phones/headphones)

Assist in promoting dog adoption and answering basic questions, if comfortable

Skills & Qualifications:

Comfortable being around dogs of all sizes and temperaments

Able to follow strict safety rules

Friendly and respectful to event attendees

Training Provided On-site training will be provided at the beginning of the shift.

Attire Wear whatever is comfortable and respectful to others attending the event. The event is outdoors, often with little or no shade. Volunteers should wear sun protection such as sunscreen and a hat.

Bring Bring water and food if you prefer not to use the options at the market. Bring a treat pouch if you have one.

Physical Requirements Able to hold a dog leash with the loop around a wrist and grip the excess leash. Dogs of various strengths will be present, and the team can match a dog’s strength to your abilities. If you have physical limitations, notify the Opportunity Coordinator at least 24 hours before the event so an appropriate dog can be assigned. Vision and hearing are required, and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Foldable camping chairs are available for those who cannot stand for long periods.

Waiver All volunteers must complete the A Way Home for Dogs waiver before their first shift. Sign on-page 1, read page 2, and provide your signature, the current date, your address and phone number, and an emergency contact on page 3.

Location The volunteer opportunity takes place at Lane Field Park Market, located across from the Midway Museum in Downtown San Diego. Public transportation (train, trolley, bus) is available within one block. Paid parking is available in the area.

Weather Rain, heat, or shine—attendance is confirmed. If the event is cancelled, all scheduled volunteers will be notified via text and email. Maintain an active HandsOn San Diego account with a valid phone number.

Photos Feel free to take and post photos on social media. If you prefer not to be photographed, inform the A Way Home for Dogs team.

Important Note Download the HandsOn Connect app to your smart device to electronically sign the waiver and check in. Volunteers who do not sign in will be automatically marked as not attending at midnight on the day of their shift.

About A Way Home For Dogs The mission of A Way Home For Dogs is to provide free pet recovery services, assisting owners with lost pets globally and securing stray dogs. Secured strays are processed through local shelters, and unclaimed or non‑adoptable dogs are entered into rescue pending space. They give dogs time to decompress and show their personalities before rehabilitation.

Requirements Age Minimum (with adult): 6+; Minimum Age: 18+; Court‑Ordered Volunteer – Allowed

Signup Process All volunteers must register in advance to attend. Registration can be completed by creating or logging into a HandsOn Connect account. Volunteers can join as part of a team—family, corporate, or organized group. When signing up, you can choose an existing team or create a new one.

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