Volunteer with HSVC

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer at the Humane Society of Ventura County! We are excited to debut our new online volunteer application to speed up the volunteer onboarding process. Please note that completing this online application does NOT guarantee a spot in our volunteer program.

As a private, non-profit organization that does not receive funding from the government or national animal welfare organizations like HSUS or ASPCA, we depend on people like you who selflessly give their time to the animals and the programs that support them. Becoming a volunteer with HSVC is both a great responsibility and a privilege. We (both shelter staff and volunteers) pride ourselves on our outstanding care of animals and expect the same from incoming team members. But don't worry! We will provide all the training you will need to make this experience "pawsitive" for you and the animals!

Any questions regarding the HSVC Volunteer Program should be directed to our Volunteer Coordinator, Astrid Derringer. She can be reached at [email protected] or 805-646-6505.

Click the button below to learn more about our volunteer opportunities!

Volunteer Opportunity Directory

Active volunteers can access their Volunteer Portal by clicking the button below. 

Volunteer Portal     

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. How do I become a Volunteer for the HSVC?

All potential volunteers must meet the following criteria:

  • Care for the welfare of animals.
  • Be 10-years or older.
  • Individuals 15 years old and younger must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is over 18 years of age. The parent or guardian must fill out a separate application and go through all required training.

    • If you meet the requirements above you may fill out the application on this page to start your journey as a volunteer with HSVC.

    2. What is an Animal Ambassador?

    HSVC Animal Ambassadors are our most experienced volunteers. They have achieved their status after a long history of volunteering at the shelter and by receiving additional training. Animal Ambassadors can be identified by their teal-colored volunteer shirts.

    3. I want to take a dog out for a run in the community, how do I sign up?

    The HSVC volunteer program does not offer the opportunity for volunteers to take dogs offsite on runs at this time. However, due to feed back from the community, we are looking into making this a possibility. We recommend keeping an eye on this page for updates on this program. Thank you for your patience!

    4. Can I foster with HSVC?

    For those interested in the HSVC Foster Program, visit our Foster Page and submit an interest form. 

    5. Can I visit the animals if I’m not a volunteer?

    Yes! The HSVC is now open to the public for walkthroughs to visit the animals. We are open Monday - Saturday from 10 am - 5 pm and we are located at 402 Bryant St. in Ojai.