Q: How old do you have to be to volunteer?

A: Volunteers must be at least 14 years of age to volunteer for the Austin Humane Society. No exceptions to this policy will be made. In addition to meeting the minimum age requirement, 14 and 15-year old volunteers must have a parent or guardian over the age of 21 with them at all times.

Q: If I’m a student, do I have to have a parent or guardian come with me?

A: No, not if you are at least 16 years of age. We require that volunteers who are 14 or 15 years of age have a parent or guardian over the age of 21 attend orientation with them, as well as supervise their volunteering at all times. 16 and 17-year old volunteers only need a parental consent form on file and may volunteer alone.

Q: Does the Austin Humane Society have volunteer opportunities for groups?

A: Our group opportunities are project-based since we do require that all volunteers who will be working directly with the animals attend our orientation. Because of the size of our Shelter, only small groups will be accommodated on site. If you have a group that is interested in volunteering at our facility for a project, please contact our volunteer department at 512.646.7387 x 114.

Q: Is there a dress code for volunteers?

A: We ask that our volunteers wear long pants, close-toed shoes, and t-shirts with sleeves. We do not permit volunteers to wear shorts, flip flops, tank tops, or bare mid-riff shirts. If you are dressed inappropriately, you may be asked to leave.

Q: Does the Austin Humane Society have a summer volunteer program for students?

A: We do not have any special summer programs for students. Our summer policies are the same: age limit (14) and parental/guardian supervision if necessary.

Q: Do I have to volunteer a certain number of hours?

A: We encourage our volunteers to make a commitment of 2 hours per week for at least the first three months. This ensures that the volunteers have a good understanding of shelter policy and procedures and also ensures the well-being of the shelter animals through consistent care. The two hours may be split in to two separate one-hour shifts if necessary to fit your schedule.

Q: When can I volunteer?

A: The shelter is open to its volunteers from 8am to 7pm Monday through Saturday and 8am to 5pm on Sunday. These hours are not the adoption hours for the public, but are solely for the convenience of the volunteers.

Q: Can I volunteer for the shelter at any other location besides 124 West Anderson Lane?

A: Yes, AHS has many events for you to participate in and through our weekly newsletter you will be kept up to date with those opportunities.

Q: What type of payment does the AHS accept for volunteer orientation fees?

A: We accept cash, charge or debit cards.

Q: Can I join multiple volunteer groups (CAT, BRATT, ASSET and Foster Care)?

A: We recommend that you pick one group and get familiar with the duties involved before adding on additional training. However, you can go through different orientation classes in later months with no additional charge.

Q: Do you have a program for court-ordered community service hours?

A: If you need court-ordered community service hours you will need to attend one of our weekly Community Service Restitution (CSR) program orientation. These orientations are held every Friday from 9-10am. Pre-registration is not required; you may simply show up at 9am to attend.