Resources for STAF Cat and Dog 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. Advance registration is required for orientation so that we can manage the number of attendees at each dog or cat orientation.

No – just dress to get furry!

All volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.

We ask for a weekly or bi-weekly commitment for the same shift each week. Morning shifts are generally our greatest need. General timeframes are 2-4 hours depending on the shift and whether you are volunteering with dogs or cats.

Most volunteers come weekly, but some come every other week. Less frequently than that, it is hard to get to know the dogs and cats and the routines.

This is covered in more detail at orientation, but at a high level it involves feeding the cats and dogs, cleaning their runs and rooms and the surrounding areas, and taking the dogs out to the yards for potty breaks and playtime. For more information, please see our Ways to Volunteer page.

Yes, you will shadow your Team Leader or a tenured member of the shift until you are comfortable working on your own.

We like volunteers to be with us for a few months to learn and understand all of our dog care procedures and protocols before taking dogs for walks or outside of the building.

We are looking for long-term volunteers who will have a high level of engagement with our animals. We do review these dog volunteer requests on a case-by-case basis if you are a student aged 18 or older looking for service hours for school requirements.

Yes, you can sit with some of our dogs in the yards or help with laundry, washing dishes, and similar tasks.

Typically, the orientation is 1.5 hours and includes paperwork and a comprehensive tour.

We have a STAF Wish List that includes our most frequently needed items. Thank you for your support.