Volunteering

Get Involved

At Cape Animal Protection Shelter (CAPS), our volunteers are the heart of everything we do. As a community-based, volunteer-driven organisation, we rely on the dedication and generosity of people who share our passion for animal welfare. Whether you have a few hours to spare each week, can assist from home, or would like to take on a more active role within the organisation, there are many ways to get involved.
From caring for animals and supporting adoptions to helping at events, transporting pets, fundraising, and assisting behind the scenes, every contribution makes a meaningful difference.
By volunteering with CAPS, you become part of a team committed to giving vulnerable animals a second chance and creating positive outcomes for pets and people across our community.

A CAPS dog enjoying time with a volunteer

How You Can Help

Ways to Volunteer

Whatever your interests, skills, or amount of free time, there's a way for you to get involved at CAPS.

Foster Care / Jail Break Program

Give our dogs an adventure, take them home for a day, a weekend or several weeks.

Committee Member

Help define the direction and governance of CAPS, or support us in essential roles such as finance, secretarial, fundraising, and communications.

Fundraising and Community Events

Help us spread the word about our work or raise essential funds by planning, organising or hosting our famous events like our spectacular morning tea.

Dog Walking

Our dogs love all the exercise they can get, and we rely on volunteers to drop by mornings and afternoons to walk one dog, or as many as they have time for.

Feeding & Cleaning

We really value volunteers who can come in to help feed the dogs, give them a wash, and clean out their cages. The dogs love the company and the care.

Pet Transport

Are you going our way? We sometimes need dogs dropped off or picked up from locations across the Cape or down as far as Cairns, A ride can really make the difference to getting to their new forever home.

Pet Minding Service

When owners travel dogs get lonely so a daily check in, feeding, walking and a bit of a yarn can make all the difference.

Cooking

This one can be done from home. Slow-cooking chicken and rice gives the dogs a delicious treat.

Social Media and Marketing

Getting the word out about our dogs and our work is so important whether photos and video for facebook and insta posts, some big win stories, blog posts or posters and flyers we really appreciate help raising our profile.

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

See the FAQs below to find out more. Click a question to expand the answer.

How do I start volunteering?

Just complete the volunteer application form in the link above. We'll review it, come back with any questions, and once you're approved, you're good to go.

Do I need any special skills or experience?

No, but if you're going to take dogs out for a walk, we'll provide basic training and match you with a dog suited to your skill and experience level. Everyone goes through the same briefing, so please don't be offended if we cover things you already know.

I want to be on the committee, how do I join?

That's great to hear! We hold an annual AGM where key roles are agreed, but if you have a particular interest, let us know and we'll tell you about any current vacancies or other ways you can support us.

Can I take a dog home?

Yes, you can, if you meet a few conditions. Check out our Jail Break & Fostering page to find out more.

Are the dogs dangerous?

Our dogs come from a wide variety of backgrounds and personalities, and most are just excited to meet new people, get outside, and get some love. They can be very enthusiastic, but they're not dangerous. If a dog doesn't walk well around other dogs, we'll let you know and advise keeping a distance. Just tell us about your experience and our caretakers will match you with the right dog.

I can't commit to regular volunteering, is that OK?

Absolutely. We understand people are busy, and we're grateful for your time whether it's daily or once a month. The shelter has set opening hours, so you're welcome to just drop in.

I don't feel comfortable walking or feeding dogs, how can I volunteer?

We need all sorts of help — cooking meat and rice meals, fundraising, admin, reviewing policies, and more. If you have a skill and an interest, we'd love to hear from you.