Volunteer with Dogs at Save The Animals Foundation
As a Dog Volunteer at STAF, you’ll provide hands-on care and connection to dogs who are waiting for their forever homes. From daily routines to enrichment and off-site adventures, your time directly improves their well-being, and makes you a part of something meaningful.
A Meaningful Role in Every Day
Every dog at STAF relies on consistency, patience, and positive human interaction. Volunteers help create that sense of stability—turning ordinary moments into opportunities for trust, growth, and comfort. Whether it’s a calm walk, a playful break, or simply sitting beside a nervous pup, your presence helps each dog feel safe and seen while they wait for their next chapter.
What Dog Volunteers Do
STAF dogs come from all walks of life—many recovering from neglect, abandonment, or illness. Our volunteers are key to helping them heal and thrive. We pay in tail wags, slobbery kisses, and the satisfaction of knowing you made a difference. As a Dog Volunteer, you’ll provide:
- Daily care including feeding, cleaning, doing laundry and washing dishes!
- Walks, exercise, and enrichment activities
- Light grooming and basic training
- Human interaction, companionship, and love
- Observations on health, behavior, and socialization
Time Commitment & Requirements
You must be 18 years of age or older to volunteer. No prior experience is required—just a love of dogs and a willingness to learn.
Dog Volunteers commit to:
- A regular weekly shift, approximately 3 hours
- Morning or evening shifts (available 7 days a week)
- Working in all weather conditions, as walks happen rain or shine
- Being in general good health and able to mop, bend, and do light lifting
Why Volunteer with STAF Dogs?
Volunteering with dogs is rewarding, joyful, and full of purpose. You’ll help animals learn to trust, become more adoptable, and enjoy a better quality of life while they’re at the shelter. At the same time, you’ll gain experience, community, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing your time matters.
Many of our volunteers form deep connections with our long-term residents—especially our “Golden Oldies,” who have been at STAF for over a year. We do everything we can to keep them happy and engaged, including off-site park trips, car rides, and quiet snuggle sessions in designated “living room” areas.
How to Get Started
Becoming a Dog Volunteer is very rewarding—but orientation is required before you start. Orientations are scheduled weekly and provide an overview of STAF, dog care procedures, safety protocols, and what to expect on a shift.
You must be pre-registered for orientation. Please do not drop in.
We list upcoming dates on our Volunteer Orientation Calendar. To reserve your spot, please submit your Volunteer Application at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled orientation date.
We will also require that you sign a Release Form at your scheduled orientation.
- Be prepared to choose a shift (note: some shifts may be full)
- Come dressed for hands-on work (this is a fur-friendly environment!)
- Get ready to meet some amazing dogs and co-volunteers!
Join Our Volunteer Pack
Whether you have years of dog-handling experience or you’re brand new, we’re excited to welcome you. Together, we can give every dog the second chance they deserve.