Getting Started as a Volunteer
What To Expect As A Volunteer
Old Friends Canada welcomes volunteers to help care for the horses and with special projects around the farm. We also welcome volunteers to help with events for fundraising and other activities.
Horses need to be fed, given fresh water and have their paddocks cleared of manure on a daily basis. They also need a clean and safe home, and to be groomed from time to time. It is a lot of work but it is so rewarding! No matter the task, time spent with horses is always good for the soul.
We ask that our volunteers commit to a recurring weekly task so we and the horses can depend on them. Of course we understand that things come up and you may need to miss a week. That’s fine, we can always arrange to have your shift covered. However, if you really aren’t able to commit to volunteering on a weekly basis please consider being on our roster of on-call volunteers instead.
What we look for in our volunteers
Dependable and committed with the ability to take direction and work independently
Experience working with animals that may have endured trauma or neglect
Patience and empathy for animals and people
Positive reinforcement with animal handling, training and care
Understand the need for discretion and confidentiality
Specific knowledge and experience with horses is helpful but not required
We do ask for a minimum commitment of 3 months but many of our volunteers have been with us for
much longer than that.
Want to join us?
Just complete our application form in its entirety and we will be in touch about setting up a time for you to attend an orientation session.
Minors 18 and under wanting to volunteer may do so provided they are accompanied and supervised by a parent (exceptions can be made for minors aged 16-18 at the discretion of Old Friends Canada). For minors a parent/legal guardian must complete both the application for an adult volunteer and for a minor volunteer.
Application Process Below
Before applying, please review our Code of Ethics which outlines our commitment to horse welfare and volunteer responsibilities. When proceeding with the application, you'll acknowledge and agree to uphold this code of ethics while volunteering with us.
Ready to make a difference in horses' lives? Complete our application below and we'll contact you to arrange orientation at our Lake Country facility. Please ensure all information is accurate and complete before submitting.
For volunteers under 18, a parent or legal guardian must complete both their own adult application and a minor application for their child. Minors must be accompanied by their parent or guardian during volunteer activities.
© 2025 Old Friends Canada Society - All Rights Reserved, Old Friends Canada is a registered Canadian charity (No. 831920301RR0001) located in beautiful Lake Country, BC. Our mission is to provide a safe place for unwanted, abandoned, abused, and retired horses, donkeys, and mules.
902-218-7996
