Volunteers at the Animal Shelter

The time and talent of many animal-loving volunteers is essential to providing quality care for shelter animals and finding them new homes.  Whether working with the animals, the public, or behind the scenes, volunteers improve the quality of life for the animals in Berkeley shelter and improve their chances of adoption.

New volunteers attend 3-5 hours of training spread over a few weeks, with new classes starting twice each month.  Once training is completed, you may volunteer your time during any of our business hours, seven days a week.  There are no set schedules or shifts and you do not have to come the same time each week. We ask new volunteers to commit to a minimum of 15 hours of service once training is completed.

 We welcome student volunteers between the ages of 8 and 14 years in the company of a parent or other responsible adult.  With a parent’s permission, high school students aged 15 to 17 years may volunteer independently.  

Volunteers are needed in the following areas:

Dog Friend - Our dogs are always grateful for a walk or game of ball.  As a Dog Volunteer, you will provide exercise, practice walking on-leash, and off-leash play-time to our available dogs and puppies.  You will learn how to socialize the dogs and promote good behavior, making them more adoptable.

Cat Friend - Petting and playing with our cats greatly relieves the stress and confusion of shelter life.  A scared or shy cat will often blossom with a little attention.  As a Cat Volunteer, you will have the opportunity to offer your care and affection to our adoptable cats and kittens. 

Community Events - Promoting our services in the community brings new adopters, volunteers and donors to the shelter.  Community Events Volunteers help to plan and participate in special events such as festivals, fairs and fundraising events. 

For an application, please call (510) 981-6600

or come to the Shelter during our regular business hours. 

The next orientations for new volunteers will be:

Wednesday, December 2nd and Saturday December 5th.