Become a Dog Shelter Volunteer

Thank you for your interest in joining the Franklin County Dog Shelter & Adoption Center’s Volunteer Program! We are always honored and humbled by those who give their time freely to help us provide the best possible care for the dogs housed at the shelter.

In order to make sure that our Volunteer Program is a good fit for you, and that you are able to make the required time commitment, we recommend that you review the information found on our Volunteer Opportunities and Volunteer FAQ pages.

Adult Volunteer Onboarding Requirements

To join our Adult Volunteer Program, you must:

  • Be at least 18 years old

  • Complete our Volunteer Onboarding Process, which includes online and in-person training

You’ll need access to:

  • A computer with internet

  • An active email account

  • Reliable transportation to the shelter

Please note: Please note that our Volunteer Program has limited availability/capacity and that your eligibility to join our Volunteer Program is ultimately determined by our Volunteer Coordinator. Starting/completing the Volunteer Onboarding Process does not guarantee your acceptance into our Volunteer Program.

Getting Started as an Adult Volunteer

The first step to becoming a volunteer at the Franklin County Dog Shelter is to complete our online Volunteer Information Presentation and Quiz during one of our scheduled Enrollment Weeks.

Anyone age 18 or older is welcome to participate.

Please make sure to submit your quiz during an active Enrollment Week to be considered for the program.

Once your quiz is submitted, our Volunteer Coordinator will reach out to you by email with the next steps in the onboarding process.

Adult Volunteer Onboarding Process Summary

Find a summary of our Volunteer Onboarding Process below. This process includes both online and in-person trainings. You must be able to commit to spending 25 – 35 hours in order to complete the Volunteer Onboarding Process.

  1. Watch the online Volunteer Information Presentation and complete the quiz during an available Enrollment Week.
  2. Watch the online Maddie’s Fund Canine Body Language in the Shelter Webinar.
  3. Complete the online Fear Free Shelter Program Core Module.
  4. Watch the Defensive Handling and Catch Pole Control video.
  5. Submit your online FCDSAC Volunteer Program Application.
  6. Attend an in-person New Volunteer Orientation.
  7. Complete the online Instinct Dog Behavior & Training Leash Reactive Dog Course.
  8. Complete your in-person One-on-One Training Session #1.
  9. Return to the shelter to independently practice and reinforce your dog-handling skills.
  10. Complete your in-person One-on-One Training Session #2.
  11. Watch the online ASPCA Canine Communication Series and complete the quizzes.

Junior Volunteer Program (Ages 12-17 year)

Looking to earn volunteer hours or gain hands on experience? Our Junior Volunteer Program is perfect for students! Help out by:

  • Making dog treats

  • Cuddling puppies

  • Assisting with fun shelter activities

To sign up, contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Mark Mann, at mark.mann@franklincountyohio.gov. 

If you are interested in receiving more information about becoming a Franklin County Dog Shelter Volunteer, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Mark Mann at mark.mann@franklincountyohio.gov

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