Frequently Asked Questions

What should I know before submitting my volunteer application?

Working with shelter animals is very different than caring with pets in a home environment. Shelters can be a stressful environment for animals, and many pets are still building trust with staff and volunteers. For that reason, volunteers are expected to follow training, handling animals carefully, and use more caution than they might with their own pets.

Shelter volunteering can also be physically demanding. Many roles involve standing, walking, bending, cleaning, and being on your feet for a full shift. While volunteering is a meaningful and rewarding experience, applicants should also be prepared for the emotional realities of working with pets in a shelter environment. Before applying, please take time to thoughtfully consider whether this environment, commitment, and type of hands-on work is a good fit for you.

What is the required service commitment and why do you have one?

Most onsite volunteer roles require a weekly 3-hour shift for at least a six-month commitment. Volunteers are always welcome to serve more often if their schedule allows.

Humane Colorado relies heavily on trained volunteers to support daily shelter operations, animal care, foster care, veterinary services, and community programs. This commitment allows us to provide consistent support for the animals in our care and ensures that volunteers remain confident and current in their training.

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.

What is the difference between a community cat, a feral cat, and a stray cat?

Community cats is a term to classify all outdoor cats, regardless of ownership and socialization, including but not limited to feral cats, stray cats, and owned outdoor cats.

Where a feral cat is completely unsocialized to humans, stray cats may have been socialized at some point in their life but no longer have regular human contact. Meanwhile, an outdoor cat may live a combination indoor/outdoor life. Outdoor cats may have consistent human interaction and access to both indoor and outdoor spaces for enrichment purposes.

Can feral kittens be socialized?

Kittens under 16 weeks are at a great age for socialization and adoption. Kittens, especially those under 8 weeks, are vulnerable, so it is important to ask yourself these questions when considering trapping a kitten:

• Have you seen the kitten(s) with a mother cat?
• Did the mom cat come back for the kittens a few hours later?

Answer “No” to both questions? Take the kittens to your nearest animal shelter as soon as possible.

If you’ve seen a mom, do not separate the kittens from her. Once the kittens are walking on their own, and if you are comfortable doing so, trap the kittens for spay/neuter services. If you are not comfortable trapping on your own, contact a local shelter service for assistance.

Why TNR?

Trap-Neuter-Return is the best thing to do to help feral cats and cat overpopulation, preventing new kittens every year while reducing the spread of disease and territory marking behaviors.

We advocate for returning the altered cat to the original location. Relocation is an ineffective tactic as many community cats will seek out their original territory or colony and relocation exposes the territory to future unaltered cats, restarting the breeding cycle.

Why can’t you find homes for feral cats?

We believe the best option for a feral cat is returning to its territory where it knows how to survive.

That said, we evaluate each cat’s behavior to assess their adoptability and placement, including potential placement in the Humane Colorado working cat program. If the cat is deemed social and healthy, it will be placed for general adoption.

There are few cases where a feral cat becomes more social with their people over time, it is rare to build trust and socialize an adult feral cat or kittens over 16 weeks.

Where can Public Service Volunteers help with facilities support?

Public Service volunteers are welcome to support our Leslie A. Malone Center and Buddy Center facilities team. Please indicate which location you would like to support in the application.

What volunteer opportunities are available at Humane Colorado?

We offer a variety of volunteer and foster opportunities across our shelters, facilities, and programs. We need support with everything from cleaning kennels with our animal care team, to distributing medications alongside our veterinary services team.

For details about available volunteer roles and their responsibilities, check out our Volunteer Opportunity Directory.

Do feral cats make good working or barn cats?

Life as a barn cat, or working cat, can be a great option for unsocial (feral) or semi-social cats, in the right situation and with the right planning. Often when people try to relocate a feral cat into a barn home, the cat attempts to return to the area they lived before, which can be dangerous. Usually, barn home placement, working cat placement, or relocation is if it is the last  choice when there are no better options for the cat. When it is the best option and the process is done methodically, it can be a success for the cat and the caretaker.  

There are a few reasons when relocating a feral cat makes sense:

• The caregiver is no longer able to care for the colony and there is no one else willing to take over colony care.
• The area the cat came from is being demolished or is otherwise no longer a safe habitat. 
• The cat’s safety and health is a concern due to other circumstances in the original area. 
• There has been a significant change in the resources (access to food, water or shelter) in the original area, and it will no longer support the cat’s survival.  

If you have a barn or other location and are interested in a working cat, view our available cats and submit a request form today.

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.

Is the Public Service Volunteer Program the same as Community Service?

No. The Public Service Volunteer Program is for individuals who want a shorter-term volunteer opportunity, but do not need court-ordered service hours. If you need court-ordered service hours, please visit Community Service Program. 

Do you offer group volunteering opportunities?

We do not offer group opportunities to volunteer at our facilities. If you would like to learn more about how to partner with us, visit our corporate partnerships page.

Will I work directly with animals as a Public Service Volunteer?

No. Public Service roles focus on behind-the-scenes support such as cleaning, laundry, and facilities. This program does not include direct animal care, handling, or interaction. If you are interested in animal interaction, visit Volunteering at Humane Colorado to learn more and submit an application, or consider opening your home to a pet in need through our Homes with Hearts Foster program.

Can I volunteer for just one day?

No. Our volunteer programs are designed to support the ongoing needs of Humane Colorado and the animals we serve.

The Public Service Volunteer commitment is at least 24 hours of service, typically completed over several weeks to months.

The General Volunteer Program requires a commitment of at least one 3-hour shift per week for at least six months.

Can students participate in the Public Service Volunteer Program?

Public Service volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Students ages 16-17 looking to complete school service hours should consider our Summer Teen Program!

The Summer Teen Program provides an opportunity to earn service hours and valuable experience working with animals while supporting Humane Colorado during the busy summer months when our animal numbers are highest.

If I start as a Public Service Volunteer, can I become a long-term volunteer later?

Yes! If you become available for a longer commitment and are interested in animal interaction, you are welcome to apply for the General Volunteer Program.

Can groups participate in the Public Service Volunteer Program?

We do not accept groups into the Public Service Volunteer Program; however, we do offer limited group volunteering experiences through our Corporate and Community Partnerships program.

How long does Public Service volunteer onboarding take?

The onboarding process can take up to several weeks. We are, unfortunately, unable to accommodate expedited turnaround requests.

Who can I contact if I have more questions about the volunteer program?

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to our volunteer services team at volunteer@humanecolorado.org

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.
• Veterinary Services Support: Assist with surgery recovery, cleaning surgery kennels, and supporting medical team members as needed.
• Adoptions Support: Assist patrons interested in Humane Colorado adoptable pets.
• Harmony Equine Center: Support team members in caring for our equines through mucking stalls and grooming.
• Homes with Hearts Foster Program: Open your home to our most in-need pets.

For more details on volunteer positions, responsibilities, and commitments, visit the volunteer opportunities overview.

What if I cannot adhere to the six-month volunteer commitment?

If you are unable to make a six-month commitment, you may be a better fit for our Public Service Volunteer Program! This program is designed for individuals looking for shorter-term volunteer opportunities.

If you need to complete court-ordered service hours, please visit our Community Service Program page.

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 our 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.

Are you onboarding new volunteers right now?

Yes! We onboard new volunteers all year long.

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. Our virtual orientation gives you the opportunity to learn more about Humane Colorado, volunteer expectations, and program requirements.

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 is required for all volunteers over 18 years of age.

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. An annual virtual home inspection is required for all foster parents.

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!

In 2025, Humane Colorado also launched Community Pet Classes to help new pet parents with behavior insights, basic training and pet enrichment! Learn more about our Community Pet Classes

Do you offer spay/neuter surgeries for pets?

Yes! We offer low-cost spay/neuter services for owned pets at the Veterinary Hospital at CSU Spur, located at 4817 National Western Dr., Denver CO 80216Yes! We offer low-cost spay/neuter services for owned pets 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.

Feral and community cats are served through our shelter services at Leslie A Malone Center. To learn more about these spay/neuter service and to schedule an appointment , call 303-751-5772.

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:

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? Younger children can participate our Humane Education programs.

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.