What should I know before submitting my volunteer application? Working with shelter animals is very different than working with pets in a home environment. A shelter can be an incredibly stressful environment for an animal. Which makes sense – they aren’t in a home yet! While we know our pets at home and they know us, shelter animals haven’t developed that trust and comfort with us yet. When we’re working with shelter pets, we always exercise more caution than you would with your own pets. Some folks are surprised by how physically demanding it can be to volunteer in a shelter. You might imagine petting pups and cuddling cats to your heart’s content, but it takes a lot of work to keep these animals comfortable, clean, and engaged during their time in the shelter. Almost all of our volunteer roles require standing, walking, bending, and generally being on your feet for three hours. Positions at Harmony Equine Center require volunteers to be comfortable doing physically intensive work, like mucking stalls, in all kinds of weather. We ask that you thoughtfully consider these aspects of what it looks like to volunteers with shelter animals prior to moving forward. Lastly, sometimes our required service commitment can be tough to fit into a busy schedule.
What is the required service commitment and why do you have one? For Humane Colorado shelters, we require weekly 3-hour shifts for a minimum of six months – though you can always complete more hours than that! The service requirement is based on our needs as an organization, the many resources we put into our volunteer training programs, and the desire to ensure that volunteer skills, especially those pertaining to safety, remain fresh. Last fiscal year, volunteers contributed about the same number of service hours as 100 full time employees – this number is reflective of how heavily we rely on our volunteer program and individuals willing to donate their time and talents to support our daily operations. Committed volunteers translated directly to better care for our animals.
What if I can’t make a shift? Don’t worry – we know you have a life outside of volunteering and completely understand that you won’t make your shift from time to time. In general, our expectation is that you will be able to complete the majority of your weekly shifts.
What if I can’t commit to weekly three-hour shifts? If you aren’t able to meet the weekly volunteer service requirement, there are still many alternatives to support Humane Colorado! From fostering to donating supplies, and volunteering at annual events such as the Furry Scurry, we’d love your support whatever form it takes.
Are there volunteer opportunities at Humane Colorado Yes! There are volunteer opportunities throughout our shelters and in various capacities. Plus, as a volunteer, you’ll be rewarded for your efforts through recognition events and awards—and best of all, you’ll be helping homeless animals receive the loving care and second chances for happiness they deserve. Learn more about how you can help.
What do I need to bring to claim my lost pet? Proof of ownership including but not limited to: Microchip registration Clear and recent photos Vet records A photo ID (drivers license, passport, etc.)
Will I be charged a fee to claim my lost pet? We want to help you reclaim your pet and are here to provide support. We encourage you to come in as soon as possible to discuss options if the fees listed are a barrier. Buddy Center & Leslie A. Malone Center $75 for the first day of care $15 for each additional day San Luis Valley $50 for the first day of care $5 for each additional day All pets are provided with food, water, and shelter while in our care. They also receive basic medical services, including vaccinations to protect them from possible illnesses.
What can I do as a volunteer? There are a variety of volunteer opportunities in our animal shelters and facilities. Some popular roles include: Animal Care Support: Cleaning cat and dog kennels, enrichment and walking dogs. Surgery Support: Medical laundry, cleaning surgery kennels, and assisting medical team members as needed. Adoptions Support: Assist patrons interested in Humane Colorado adoptable pets. Harmony Equine Center: Assist team members in a number of equine-related roles Homes with Hearts Foster Program: Open your home to our most in-need pets.
I’m not old enough to volunteer, but I want to get involved. What can I do? Young community members, 12 years and older, are encouraged to join out Homes with Hearts Foster program. Alongside a parent, these junior animal welfare advocates can help Humane Colorado’s most vulnerable animals. Onboardings are done quarterly.
What is the volunteer onboarding process? Our onboarding process is very thorough, and we prioritize ensuring all new volunteers are well prepared to safely work with animals in our care. Depending on the program you are interested in, it will take 2 to 6 weeks to complete the onboarding process and all necessary trainings.
What are the steps to becoming a volunteer? Onboarding steps vary by program, but here are some things you can expect: Step 1: Fill out the volunteer application and pay the $30 fee. The volunteer fee helps cover the cost of volunteer supplies, such as t-shirts, nametags, keycards, and training. Step 2: Complete an orientation. The orientation gives you the opportunity to learn more about our organization and program requirements so you can determine if our volunteer opportunities are right for you. Step 3: One-on-one phone interview with an experienced volunteer or staff member. In the interview, you’ll get a chance to learn about our available positions, schedule, and program interest. If you applied for the Homes with Hearts Foster program, you’ll discuss what types of animals you are interested in fostering. Step 4: A quick background check. Step 5: Attend required trainings to help ensure you are prepared to work safely in a shelter environment and have the necessary skills to be successful in your volunteer assignment. A virtual home inspection is a required but simple process to ensure a safe space for your future fosters.
Can I bring my work/school group for a volunteer day at Humane Colorado? We are only able to accommodate group volunteer opportunities for our corporate and event sponsors. If you’re interested in becoming a corporate or event sponsor, you can reach out to our corporate partnerships team at partnerships@humanecolorado.org.
Can I host a fundraising event for Humane Colorado? Yes! Learn more about hosting an event and supporting Humane Colorado in fun, creative ways!
Does Humane Colorado offer school and community education classes? Our Humane Education team offers classes to children in preschool and older, adults and to community groups. Our community programs are free and available throughout the Denver metro area and beyond, year-round. Learn more about our classes today!
Do you offer spay/neuter surgeries for pets? Yes! We offer low-cost spay/neuter services for both owned pets and feral/community cats at the Veterinary Hospital at CSU Spur, located at 4817 National Western Dr., Denver CO 80216. To schedule an appointment, please visit our Patient Portal or Portal del paciente.
How can I become a foster volunteer? If you have a place in your heart and home for animals—but you’re not able to adopt—consider fostering. Our Homes with Hearts foster care program lets animal lovers bring pets from our shelters into their homes on a temporary basis to prepare them for adoption. Learn more about our Foster program.
How do I adopt a dog, cat, or a small mammal? We recommend starting your search for a new pet online. If you see a pet you want to meet, note their location and write down their ID number. We have three adoption facilities: Leslie A Malone Center in Denver, The Buddy Center in Castle Rock, and the San Luis Valley Animal Center in Alamosa. Adoptions are on a first come, first served basis. We regularly update our available cats, dogs, and small mammals online, but there’s always a possibility that the pet you saw on our site will find a home before you get a chance to visit. Learn everything you need to know about adopting a pet from Humane Colorado on the pet adoptions process page.
How do I adopt a horse? The first step to adopting a horse is to browse available horses on our website or in person at the Harmony Equine Center in Franktown, CO. If there is a horse you are interested in, the next step is to schedule an appointment by filling out the equine adoption form on our website. You can learn everything you need to know about adopting a horse, donkey, or other equine animal on the Equine Adoption Process page.
How do I adopt a working cat? If you’re interested in adopting a working cat, call 303.751.5772 to learn more about the program, or fill out our Working Cat Adoption Inquiry form. You can also learn more, including how to care for a working cat, on our website.
How do I report an instance of animal cruelty or neglect? To file a report of suspected abuse, neglect or mistreatment, you can: Call 800.249.5121 Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Submit an online form. Please note: If you see an emergency, call your local animal control agency or 911.
How much does it cost to adopt a horse? Adoption fees range from $250–$2000 and are based on the training level of the equine.
How much does it cost to adopt a pet? Our fees vary by animal and location: Cats and Kittens: * 5 months and under $300 $120 (SLV) 6 months to 1 year $200 $95 (SLV) 1 year to 5 years $110 $75 (SLV) 5 years and older $50 $50 (SLV) Dogs and Puppies: * 5 months and under $350 $250 (SLV) 6 months to 1 year $250 $175 (SLV) 1 year to 5 years $200 $125 (SLV) 5 years and older $100 $50 (SLV) Other Pets: Ferrets: $75 Rabbits $45 Guinea pigs $30 Small pets start at $5 Visit our adoption process page to learn more, including any adoption specials.
How old does a puppy or a kitten need to be to be spayed or neutered? Puppies and kittens must be at least 8-weeks old and weigh 2 pounds for surgery. We do not spay or neuter animals more than 8-years old without recent blood work. We will spay or neuter pets that are in heat.
How old do I need to be to volunteer? General volunteers must be at least 16-years old. Select assignments require volunteers to be at least 18 years old. Not old enough to volunteer? Kids 12-15 can participate our Junior Volunteer Club.
What do I need to bring with me to adopt a pet? When you adopt a pet, please bring: A valid photo ID with your current address. If your ID does not have your current address, please bring another type of proof, such a utility bill, water bill or vehicle registration. Family members needed to finalize the adoption. If a dog-dog visit is necessary due to an animal’s history, your adoption counselor will advise you.
What is a working cat? A working cat (sometimes called a mouser or a barn cat) is one with a history and temperament better suited to an outdoor lifestyle. These cats may live in a barn, stable or other outdoor setting where they have a “job” and a better quality of life.
What is included in an adoption? All adoptions include: Spay or neuter surgeries Age-appropriate vaccinations A microchip ID A free wellness visit with a participating veterinarian. A temporary collar and ID tag A temporary leash or a carrier
What types of classes does Humane Colorado offer? Currently, classes are available for: Bully prevention Humane Colorado 101 Staying safe around dogs Caring for pets Careers in animal welfare And so many more! Check out our complete list of classes today.
Where can I see upcoming Humane Colorado events? Check out our events calendar for the latest happenings.
