In Shelter

The Seattle Animal Shelter strives to have an enjoyable, innovative and organized volunteer program that benefits the animals and animal-lovers of Seattle.   Volunteers work 365 days a year and are extremely dedicated. 

To volunteer at the shelter, volunteers must:

• Be eighteen (18) years of age or older.
• Be able to commit to eight hours of service per month.
• Be able to commit to six (6) consecutive months of service.
• Be able to commit to scheduled volunteer times.
• Be able to squat, bend, twist, lift, and stand for long periods while working directly with the animals.
• Attend required training classes. 
• Be able to work independently without direct supervision.
• Have previous large dog handling experience if applying for a dog handling program (e.g. Dog Walking, Get Fit with Fido, Matchmakers-Dog)

For more information on volunteer opportunities, check out our Volunteer Opportunities Directory.
Once you’ve found the opportunity you’re interested in, apply to become a volunteer.  Please note that we receive many more applications than we are able to accept.  Applications will be accepted quarterly.