Want to make a difference in the lives of homeless animals? Become an FAMD Volunteer! Our volunteers perform a variety of tasks to assist in the care and adoptions of the 2,500+ animals who come through our doors each year. 

Our regular adult volunteer program is separate from our court ordered community service program. Please click on the link below to be directed to the correct page if you need court ordered community service hours.

Court Ordered Service

Youth Volunteers (Ages 12-15)
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Adult Volunteering (Ages 16+)
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Spend your time with the animals, ensuring they get the care they deserve by walking dogs, grooming and cuddling cats, preparing meals, and keeping the shelter organized and clean! Our in-shelter volunteers also provide excellent customer service to all shelter visitors and help animals find their new families! Volunteers begin their service with cleaning and enrichment tasks and then train to work hands-on with the animals.

Group Volunteering (Ages 18+)
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 See our wish list here. Thank you!

Foster Volunteers (Ages 18+)
Temporarily welcome an animal into your home and heart! FAMD will provide all the supplies needed, you provide the space and time. Our foster volunteers help with socializing young kittens & puppies, treating sick & injured animals, and giving animals a break from their time in the shelter. The length of time an animal needs in a foster home can vary from a few days to a few months. Work with our foster coordinator to get matched with the right foster animal for you!

To get started as a foster volunteer, click here. 

Questions? Contact the FAMD Volunteer Department at

Volunteers@MetroDetroitAnimals.org or 313-943-2697 ext 1016.

*Those under 18 years of age must have parental permission, and a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian.

PLEASE NOTE: Hours recorded in the volunteer service program will NOT count towards court ordered service. Please find information on our court ordered service by clicking here.