Volunteer

Ways to Volunteer

Interested in volunteering at the shelter?

We welcome you to apply to our volunteer program if you are:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Able to provide at least 8 hours of service per month with a scheduled shift of two hours per week.
  • Able to attend the Shelter 101 class and (3) two-hour training sessions with a mentor.
  • Able to squat, bend, twist, lift, or stand for long periods when working directly with the animals.
  • Possess strong customer service skills and are able to read, write and communicate clearly, since all volunteer positions work directly with the public, staff, and other volunteers.
  • Have regular access to the Internet and an email account.
  • Able to pay a $25 application fee (includes volunteer shirt, treat bag and clicker). This is required on your first day of training.

Volunteer Now!

This shift is a 2-hour a week commitment. Available shift times are 1:30pm - 3:30pm Monday through Sunday. This shift includes stuffing Kongs, getting enrichment frisbees ready and handing out to the pups. Enrichment is what keeps the pups happy and healthy in their kennels while waiting for their new family.

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • Must love dogs!
  • Must be able to stand and bend for extended periods of time.
  • Must not have food allergies, because you will be working in a kitchen with various food items (peanut butter, dog food, various fruits and vegetables)
  • Must be able to work independently & take initiative when needed.

Volunteer Now!

Dogs on special diets, skinny or needing additional enrichment get an extra meal throughout the day. That's where you come in! The shift includes getting the meals together, feeding (based on a list we provide), collecting bowls and washing them at the end of your shift.

Shifts are available Monday - Sunday 12pm - 2pm.

Volunteer Now!

This is a 6 week long class designed to teach kids about working in animal welfare and good pet ownership.  These are hands-on sessions often times working with shelter dogs.  Each class is designed to cover one area of the responsibilities involved in caring for a dog, but also what we do in the shelter each day.  
This class is for kids 9 years - 11 years and the program fee is $40 (to cover the cost of materials)

Next Sessions are: 
Session 1 is July 14th - August 18th* 
Session II is September 8th - October 13th* 

*We reserve the right to abridge the schedule if/when it conflicts with events at the shelter.

Volunteer Now!

This is a non-dog handling position open to volunteers who aren’t interested in (what can be) the labor intensive shift of walking a dog. You must be 18+ years for this position. This shift can include such things as: cleaning kennels, stocking treats, helping with laundry, "Click for quiet", making adoption folders, washing bowls and assisting clients walking through the main adoption floor and more!

Shifts are available Monday - Sunday 12p-2pm & 2pm - 4pm.

Volunteer Now!

 

This is for high school students who need to fulfill academic community hours. This program allows students to work outside of the shelter while still learning and investigating but helping out CCAS dogs at the same time.

The best part is that students can pick their own project! We allow them the opportunity to learn and study things that interest them. Students can start a fundraiser, research breed specific legislation, make blankets, or whatever they care about most.

 

If you need help in project ideas, please contact the Volunteer Coordinator at ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov


Requirements:

  • Must be in high school
  • Decide what your project will be
  • Complete the fillable application
  • Download, save it and email it to ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov
  • Approval (or follow up questions) of project will be sent via email

Apply Now!

This is for High School seniors who need to complete job shadowing hours in order to graduate. We take up to (5) students. Applications are accepted February 1st- March 1st. 

The Application Process is now closed and will reopen in February 2025.

At this time we are not able to provide this service. Check back often to see when we will resume CMCS.

Community Service is available on a first come, first serve basis. Hours are served from 9am-3pm Monday- Friday. Please contact Jen Huettich at ccasv@cuyahogacounty.gov for more information.

Volunteer with Dog