Everything You Need to Know

STAF (Save the Animals Foundation) is a volunteer-driven, no-kill animal shelter in Cincinnati, Ohio. We rescue, care for, and rehome abandoned and homeless cats and dogs.

STAF is located in Cincinnati, Ohio. Please visit our Contact Us page for more information.

We are entirely volunteer-run with no paid staff and no government funding. That means your support goes directly to the animals.

The shelter is not open to the public for walk-ins. All adoptions, volunteering, and events must be scheduled in advance to ensure safety and proper care.

If interested in adopting one of our dogs or cats, start by submitting an adoption application, then schedule a visit to meet our available cats or dogs. Our team will guide you through the matching and adoption process.

We have many wonderful cats and dogs ready for loving homes in Cincinnati. Visit our Adoptable Pets page to browse profiles and learn more about each one.

Yes, adoption fees help cover medical care, food, and shelter. The fee varies by dog or cat and includes vaccinations, microchipping, and spay/neuter services, as applicable. For more information, review our adoption process page.

Yes, but we prioritize homes within a reasonable driving distance to ensure proper follow-up and support. For dog adoptions, we prioritize adoptions within a 30-mile radius of Cincinnati. For cat adoptions, we prioritize adoptions within a 150-mile radius of Cincinnati.

You must be at least 21 years old, live within our adoption radius, and provide landlord approval if you rent. Some dogs may require a physical fence for adoption.

Every STAF animal receives a veterinary exam, vaccinations, spay/neuter, and microchip, as applicable, before adoption. Dogs and cats are also socialized and cared for daily by our volunteers.

Begin by reviewing our Volunteer Opportunities. Then, attend a one-time orientation for either cats or dogs, depending on your interest. Orientation dates are available on our Event Calendar.

No prior experience is required. We provide training to all new volunteers and match roles to your comfort level.

Due to insurance requirements, all volunteers must be at least 18 years old. For those not yet 18 years old, we do encourage involvement through donation drives.

Volunteers commit to one regular weekly shift, about three hours per week. This consistency ensures the animals get the best care possible.

You can donate online, by mail, or through employer matching programs. Visit our Donate page to see all the ways to support STAF.

Yes, Save the Animals Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and your donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Absolutely. Recurring monthly donations help provide consistent support for the animals in our care.

Yes! We welcome donations of food, toys, cleaning supplies, and more. Check our Wish List for current needs.

You can sponsor a room or dog run, or even sponsor a specific cat or dog. Sponsorships include recognition and updates so you can see your impact firsthand.

Because STAF is 100% volunteer-run, every dollar goes to the animals – covering food, medical care, shelter maintenance, and enrichment.

Event details are listed on our Event Calendar and in our Happy Tails Blog. Popular events include Open House days, where you can meet our animals and learn more about STAF.

Yes! Corporate engagement opportunities allow businesses to support our mission while connecting with the community.

Absolutely. From birthday fundraisers to community drives, we love when supporters get creative. Contact us to share your ideas and we’ll help guide you.