During the school year, many students miss their four-legged friends back at home. Since NYU does not allow pets in dorms, many of us have a void that only our cats and dogs can fill. Here are the top five ways you can play with and volunteer to help animals in the city before you go home to see your furry friends.

1. Central Park Paws’ 10th Annual My Dog Loves Central Park Country Fair  

Many dogs and their owners come out to this event to enjoy a host of activities including games, microchipping, agility courses, training tips and more. My Dog Loves Central Park Country Fair will take place in Central Park Saturday, Oct. 13 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and offers many opportunities for students to volunteer. Central Park Paws is part of the Central Park Conservancy program and hosts many events for dog owners and their dogs throughout the year.

2. Volunteer at Animal Haven Shelter

Animal Haven Shelter is a non-profit animal shelter at 251 Centre St. in SoHo that houses cats and dogs. But unlike most animal refuges, volunteers train animals to increase their chances of adoption. The organization is always looking for dedicated volunteers who don’t mind cat socializing, dog walking and bathing and feeding animals.

3. Walk dogs at Brooklyn Animal Resource Coalition

BARC’s mission is to provide shelter, food, medication and love to abandoned animals. If you are 21 and older, or have a guardian accompany you, you can sign up as a volunteer dog walker with the BARC in Williamsburg.

4. Animal Care and Control of New York City 

Animal Care and Control of New York City is the largest non-profit pet organization in the Northeast. Volunteers help with the care and placement of shelter animals, and they have opportunities to foster animals in need and give valuable administrative and fundraising support. Aside from volunteering at the shelter, volunteers can make pipe cleaner toys for the cats. The toys help to trigger cats’ chasing instincts and satisfy their urge to play and hunt.

5. Miles For Paws 

Miles For Paws is Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s alliance for animal welfare charity fitness team for New York City animals. The team is made up of athletes who participate in a range of different sports including running and cycling to raise money for animal organizations. For a one-time registration fee of $50, you can become a pack member and participate in fundraising to provide shelter for homelss animals.

Tanay Hudson is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].