Become a Santa Cruz SPCA volunteer

Becoming a volunteer takes two steps, and they're both right here on this page: complete your application, then reserve your orientation. Do both and you're in. If they are all sold out email us at volunteer@spcasc.org

Santa Cruz SPCA volunteers with pet food donations

🎂 You'll need to be 16 or older 📅 Most roles ask for a weekly commitment

Complete your application

Fill out the form below. When you finish, keep going — Step 2 (orientation) is just below and is required.

In a hurry? Jump to orientation dates ↓

✋ Finished the application? You're not done yet.

Reserving an orientation below is the required second step — it's what officially makes you a volunteer.

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Reserve your orientation

Pick a session below to lock in your spot. Orientation runs about 90 minutes at the shelter (2601 Chanticleer Ave.). If they are sold out e-mail us at volunteer@spcasc.org

A Santa Cruz SPCA volunteer wearing a volunteer apron

What happens after you finish both steps

We review your application and confirm your orientation spot by email.

You attend orientation — meet the team and tour the shelter.

You shadow a shift, then start volunteering. Welcome to the family! 🐾

Questions? Email volunteer@spcasc.org or call 831-465-5000.

Shelter Location

2601 Chanticleer Ave.

Santa Cruz, CA 95065

(P) 831-465-5000 (F) 831-479-8530

Hours of Operation

Monday - CLOSED

Animal Browsing Tuesday to Sunday 11am - 5pm

PET FOOD PANTRY - Sundays 1:00pm - 3:00pm

The Santa Cruz SPCA is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to the welfare of animals. We receive no government funding, and depend solely on financial support from our friends. Our organization is not affiliated with any other SPCA or Humane Society.

Tax ID: 94-6171565

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