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

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.


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.

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.

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.

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.

Still Have Questions?
Reach out to us directly at animaloutreach@washoecounty.gov.
