St. Louis is buzzing with opportunities for animal lovers and community members to make a real impact this summer. Whether you’re searching for a new pet or looking to lend a helping hand, the city’s shelters and rescues need support. Here’s what’s coming up and how you can get involved in pet adoption events and volunteer opportunities in St. Louis.
APA Adoption Center
APA Adoption CenterThis summer, the APA Adoption Center is hosting a series of events designed to connect pets with loving families and engage the community.
On Tuesdays, APA offers “Big Dog Energy” days during which adoption fees are waived for dogs 6 months and older and 30 pounds and up!
Volunteers are always needed at APA events, whether you’re helping with adoptions, supporting educational programs, or promoting pet wellness. If you’re passionate about animals, consider joining their volunteers to make a difference.
Stray Rescue of St. Louis
Stray Rescue of St. LouisStray Rescue is another cornerstone of the St. Louis animal welfare community. They have several events coming up that appeal to animal lovers with varying interests. Their Urban Wanderers Art Show & Auction on Friday, August 1st at the Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis will blend art and advocacy, supporting rescue efforts through creativity and community spirit.
If you can’t attend in person, you will be able to view the artwork and bid online. Works will include paintings, sculptures, photography and mixed media. All proceeds from the event – in person and virtual – go towards the Stracks Fund for medical emergencies.
Volunteering with Stray Rescue means more than just walking dogs or cleaning kennels. Here, you can join one of their volunteer groups or start your own group with your colleagues and friends. You can also volunteer at Second Chances Resale Shop on Pine Street.
Additional Volunteer Opportunities Across St. Louis
Additional Volunteer Opportunities Across St. LouisShelters like Five Acres Animal Shelter, CARE STL, and St. Louis Pet Rescue are always seeking dedicated volunteers. Roles range from dog walking and cat care to helping at adoption events, managing food pantries, or even transporting animals. Whether you have a few hours a week or want to help at an event, there’s a place for you:
- Five Acres Animal Shelter: Volunteers help with daily care, feeding, enrichment, and even running the AniMeals pet food pantry
- CARE STL: Offers flexible volunteer scheduling, training, and a variety of roles from animal care to cleaning and dog walking to public outreach
- St. Louis Pet Rescue: Needs help pulling pets out of animal control facilities, supporting adoption events, fundraising, running donation drives, and transporting animals
Pet Adoption Events and Volunteer Opportunities in St. Louis
Ready to make a difference? Visit the websites of these organizations to sign up for volunteer orientation or check their event calendars for upcoming opportunities. By adopting, volunteering, or simply spreading the word, you’ll help St. Louis’s animals live the lives they deserve, even while they wait for their forever homes!
Founded in 1997, 4-Legged Kids, Inc. has grown into the largest in-home pet care company servicing large areas of St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County. We personalize our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services to meet your and your pets’ needs, species, age, temperament, and more! Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register.
Existing clients, please request services here.
Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.
