Snuffle Mats for Pups

Volunteer Now has a variety of organisations that need entertainment for pups.

🐾 VOLUNTEER ALERT: Make a Snuffle Mat for a Shelter Pup! 🐾
Earn verified hours while giving a rescued dog the gift of comfort, stimulation, and pure joy. Snuffle mats are one of the most requested enrichment items from animal shelters—and you can make one from home with just a few basic supplies!

🐶 Why Snuffle Mats Matter

Snuffle mats help puppies and adult dogs:

• 👃 Develop and strengthen their natural sniffing and foraging instincts
• 🧠 Stay mentally stimulated (reducing boredom and stress in the shelter environment)
• 🐾 Learn slower, calmer eating habits
• 💛 Feel comforted during transitions and stressful moments

These simple mats make a massive difference in the wellbeing of shelter pups.

✂️ How to Make a Snuffle Mat (Beginner-Friendly!)

You’ll need:

• A rubber mat with holes (like a sink or shower mat)
• Fleece fabric (choose durable, washable pieces)
• Scissors
• 30–60 minutes of your time

Instructions:

1. Cut the fleece into strips ±3–4 cm wide and ±20–25 cm long.
2. Thread the strips through the holes in the mat.
3. Tie a firm double knot so the strips stay securely in place.
4. Repeat until the mat is full, fluffy, and “snufflable”!
5. Give it a shake to remove loose threads and make sure everything is secure.

(You can personalise them with fun colours—but please avoid beads or decorations that could be chewed off.)

📸 Once You’re Done

Once you’ve collected everything and it meets the donation requirements,

• Book your donation on the site.
• Download and fill in the delivery note so you can keep track. https://volunteernow.co.za/download-delivery-note/
• Snap a photo of your donation for your LO portfolio,
• Drop it off at the collection point with the delivery note, call before to arrange a convenient time, then
• Upload your proof of delivery and book your hours.

 Please note: Verified hours are awarded based on the value of goods or services donated, calculated at R250 per hour.

Collection Points

Sharon – 90 West Rd North, Morningside, Sandton, Tel: 083 604 0477

Nanine – 34 20^th Ave, Parkhurst, Johannesburg, Tel: 083 676 6188

Ezette – 3- 4th Avenue, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, 084 656 3419

If you’re from outside Gauteng let us know and we’ll make a plan.

❤️ Make a Mat, Change a Life

A snuffle mat is more than fabric—it’s enrichment, comfort, and joy for a puppy waiting for a family. Thank you for helping us support shelters and give pups the love they deserve.

Ready, set, snuffle! 🐾

Earn 2 service hour for one completed snuffle mat. Drop off at any of our collection points. Mark you donation clearly with your name, school and grade for verification purposes. Remember to take a photo of you with your donation. You will find it useful for your final report and essay.