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 Fall Enrollment period is now closed. Thanks to the many kind, compassionate folks who have started the process!
 
We enroll New Volunteers every quarter, and the Winter enrollment period will be Jan. 5-12, 2026. During that week, a link will appear on this page for you to view our Volunteer Information Presentation, and so begin your journey toward becoming a Franklin County Dog Shelter Volunteer!

 

 

Adult Volunteer Onboarding Process Summary

Find a summary of our Volunteer Onboarding Process below. This process includes both online and in-person trainings. After you compete a step, you will receive links to the next step. 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. After 50 hours of dog walking, complete your in-person One-on-One Training Session #2.

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, please view this Junior Volunteer Presentation!

Junior-Volunteer-Orientation-pdf_2.pdf(PDF, 1MB)

 

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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