Volunteer
Volunteer
Volunteers are a vital part of our organization. With their help, we are able to meet our mission: Partnering with our community, we provide life-saving work for pets in need and support to the people who love them. You can be a part of this mission and join a team of compassionate animal lovers.
Volunteer Requirements
- 16 years of age or older; 18 years or older to volunteer with dogs.
- Must be able to get to our shelter location in Tacoma for volunteer shifts. We do not offer remote volunteer opportunities at this time.
- Able to make a minimum commitment of 6 hours per month for at least 6 months.
- Able to squat, bend, twist, lift, or stand for long periods of time when working directly with the animals.
- A people person, as well as an animal person.
- Committed to creating a compassionate community for not only animals but also for the people that love them.
How to Become a Volunteer
Get started by filling out our Volunteer Application below!
Volunteer Application for volunteers 18 years or older
Volunteer Application for volunteers between the ages of 16 and 18
As part of our duty of care for all staff, volunteers, and the animals we care for, all volunteer applicants must complete a background check.
If you have any questions, please email at volunteer@thehumanesociety.org.
Explore Opportunities
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Individual Volunteers
UPDATE: We are in need of Dog Walking volunteers who can commit to a weekly scheduled shift of two hours minimum and are able to handle large and strong dogs!
The shelter has more than 30 volunteer positions, from entry-level to team leadership. Some volunteer positions are highly selective and require certain skills and/or prior experience in a respective field. Below are some of our most in-need positions.
- Administrative Assistant
- Animal Transport
- Bath Brigade
- Cat Care Specialist
- Customer Service Aid
- Dog Enrichment
- Dog Walker
- Events and Outreach
- Laundry Folding Crew
- Pet Food Pantry
- Pet Store Liaison
- Photography
- Purrtime Specialist (cat enrichment)
- Rabbit Enrichment Specialist
…and many more!
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Volunteer with a Group
Looking for a team-building day that actually means something? Our Off Leash Outing program uniquely combines charitable giving with hands-on volunteer work at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County. Your team shows up, rolls up their sleeves, and helps out our furry friends. We’re talking painting, prepping animal treats, and hanging out with some adorable shelter dogs. No previous animal experience required—just bring your energy and team spirit!
By participating, your team will:
- Make a tax-deductible donation supporting life-saving work for pets in need
- Boost employee morale and team spirit
- Directly contribute to improving the lives of shelter animals
- Create lasting memories of collective purpose
What’s in it for you?
- Hands-on volunteer tasks that make a difference
- A fun tour of the shelter
- A guaranteed “aww” moment with some incredible shelter animals
- A t-shirt
- Major bragging rights about your company’s community impact
Perfect for employers who want to boost team morale and do some good at the same time. Trust us, nothing brings a team together like making a difference—and maybe getting some puppy kisses along the way. Ready to get started? Drop an email to offleash@thehumanesociety.org and we’ll be in touch with more details!
* If your group is from JBLM, classified as first responders and/or part of a school system, please email volunteer@thehumanesociety.org for information on how to schedule your group.
FAQ's
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How old do you have to be to volunteer?
All volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Please note, we are not able to accommodate volunteers under 16 years of age even with a parent/guardian volunteering with them. For some positions, such as Dog Walking and Animal Transport, you must be 18.
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What is the time commitment for volunteering?
We ask that all volunteers make a commitment of six hours per month for six months. Advanced positions will require varying minimum commitments.
The average volunteer shift is two hours long.
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Can I complete court-ordered community service with your organization?
Yes, we offer opportunities for court-ordered community service. Please contact volunteer@thehumanesociety.org for more information.
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Can I complete school-required service hours?
- We are happy to accommodate students who are required to fulfill community service hours for school. However, we are unable to sign off on hours for school until after students complete a six-month commitment.
- You must be 16 years or older to volunteer at the shelter.
- You must be 18 years or older to volunteer with dogs.
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What are the timeframes that I can volunteer?
Volunteers assist staff at the shelter from 7:00 am to 6:30 pm seven days a week including holidays.
Spotlight on our Volunteers
Volunteers are at the heart of the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County’s success. They not only help our shelter staff they also improve the quality of life for shelter animals.