The Hawaiian Humane Society's volunteer program offers a unique volunteering opportunity for parents and kids as young as 7.

A "parent-child team" tackles a rewarding job that makes for a bonding experience. Bonus: the occasional kiss from a grateful dog or cat.

Lei Manoi teamed up with her daughter, Zoe Pulos.

"Zoe was only 7 years old when I decided to give the Humane Society a call," says Manoi. "I was delighted to hear that they allow parent-child teams to volunteer. The job that we do each Saturday morning is preparing the society's Cat House for visitors before it opens. It's tough getting a child up early to do anything. It has taken time and some missed Saturdays, but we've got it down now."

The exposure to pets has opened up a new world for Zoe.

"My daughter has so much love to give each animal," says Manoi. Sometimes that love will delay our duties because she has to pick up each cat and kitten and give them a hug. I remind her to hurry, while at the same time, I'm smiling inside."

Manoi is thankful for the experience.

"During the three years that we have been volunteering, I've had a chance to connect with my daughter," she says. "It helps me to show her that there are little things we can do to help others. We don't always see eye to eye and the teenage years are quickly approaching. But I can hope that we'll cherish the days we spend together at the Humane Society for many years to come."

Her daughter offered her own thoughts on sharing time with her mother at the Humane Society.

"I think more people should volunteer at the Humane Society because it's fun. I volunteer at the Cat House because we get to play with the kittens and cats. Volunteering gives me something fun to do with my Mom in my spare time. I hope I will volunteer there with my children," said Zoe.

With a staff of about 55, along with 750 volunteers, the Hawaiian Humane Society relies on the people of O'ahu to help animals in our community. Volunteers handle important tasks such as assisting with animal care, customer service, adoption counseling, maintaining the grounds and administrative office functions. Other volunteers walk dogs, help at special events and visit hospitals with their pets. There are even foster caregiver positions that allow "working" from home.

People 14 or older may volunteer on their own. Children, ages 7 to 13, may volunteer with a parent or other responsible adult. Both must attend training classes and participate in all volunteer activities together.

To get started volunteering, fill out an application, which is available at the Humane Society's adoption desk or online at www.hawaiianhumane.org.

Next step: Wait for an invitation to an orientation session. New volunteers learn about the society's mission, take a tour of the facility and learn about different shelter tasks. After being matched to a position, additional training sessions might be scheduled. Generally volunteers must commit to a three-hour shift, once a week for a minimum of six months.

Most stay beyond the six months, some volunteering for years. They find it very satisfying to help those who cannot speak for themselves. There is always a need for new volunteers at the Hawaiian Humane Society. For more information, call 356-2216.

ADOPTABLES

Jone

Tag No. 106437 Jone is an impressive male cat with gorgeous coloring. His coat is orange with darker stripes and a dusting of white around his chin, chest and prominent paws. He has a microchip and has been vaccinated and neutered, so Jone is ready to move to his new home today.

Rocky

Tag No. 106031 This adorable Dalmatian mix is waiting to meet his new family and get a loving home. Rocky is mostly white with random black spots. At just 15 months, he is still a puppy with loads of energy and bounce. Training using positive reinforcement is recommended for Rocky.

These animals already may have found homes. The Hawaiian Humane Society and McInerny Dog Park at 2700 Wai'alae Ave. are open weekdays from 11 a.m.-7 p.m., weekends and holidays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For directions, special events and to see more pets available for adoption, visit www.hawaiian humane.org or call 946-2187. Call immediately to report lost or found animals, ext. 4.

PETS ON THE NET: AN ONLINE COMMUNITY

Our Web feature, Pet Project, is for people who love their dogs, cats and other animals so much they want to show them off to everyone. At Pet Project, you can submit a photo of your pet, read the latest news about pets, learn about new books on pets or join a discussion group with other pet owners in the community. Go online to http://the.honoluluadvertiser.com/section/petproject.