Volunteering for WCRAS

Volunteer with Washoe County Regional Animal Services!

Join our team of passionate individuals who care about animals. Volunteers play a vital role in our daily operations, assisting with a variety of tasks that directly impact the well-being of the animals in our care.

Apply Here

A picture of a hand holding a white dog paw in a yellow and green circle frame

Photo of a white pit bull with a red collar and a brown Yorkshire terrier standing on grass in the sun in a green and yellow circle frame

Why Volunteer with WCRAS?

As a volunteer, you can make a real difference in the lives of animals in our community. Whether it's providing pet enrichment, helping with events, or supporting our animal welfare programs, your time and energy can help us improve the lives of many pets.

Volunteer Opportunities

Animal Care: Help with feeding, cleaning, and providing general care for animals in the shelter.
Events & Outreach: Assist with setting up and attending community outreach events.
Administrative Support: Assist with filing, answering phones, updating records, and supporting our office team.
Pet Detective: Help match pets listed as lost on various community sites with pets at Animal Services to reunite a lost pet and their family.

Two men sitting together on a porch with a brown miniature pincher dog on their lap

A woman outside in front of a white building hugging a dog in the grass

Volunteer Requirements

To ensure the best experience for both our volunteers and the animals, we ask that you meet the following requirements:

Age: Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Volunteers under 18 must have written parental consent.
Time Commitment: Volunteers can expect to spend at least 6 hours per month depending on the role.
Skills & Experience: While prior experience with animals is helpful, it is not required. We provide training for all volunteer roles.

The words Tier 1 over an image of rebagged pet food

Tier 1 Volunteer

These are the behind-the-scenes heroes of the shelter! Every volunteer will begin here and complete a minimum of 36 hours.

The words Tier 2 overlaid on an image of people in line at a vaccine clinic

Tier 2 Volunteer

This is the start of hands-on animal contact and outreach. Volunteers must complete 36 hours in Tier 1 and additional online and in-person training.

The words Tier 3 overlaid on an image of the WCRAS emergency Evacuation command center motorhome vehicle

Tier 3 Volunteer

This next step supports larger roles. Eligible after completing Tiers 1 and 2, with over 80 hours of service and noted interest.

Light bulb icon with a paw and heart inside in a green and yellow circle frame

Apply to Volunteer

Join our team and make a difference in the lives of animals!

Apply Now

Still Have Questions?

Reach out to us directly at animaloutreach@washoecounty.gov.

A brown tabby cat resting their head on a rolled up towel looking relaxed