Volunteer at Mission Viejo Animal Services: shelter help and the HOWL wildlife program

Mission Viejo Animal Services has run its animal center since 1992, and the city says the work depends on volunteers who work side by side with staff caring for animals and helping with education and outreach. Shelter volunteers can spend time with the animals, greet visitors, help keep the shelter in shape, do clerical work in the office or take part in community engagement.

How to apply. The city's Volunteering at the Center page links to a volunteer application. Completed applications can be emailed to animalinfo@cityofmissionviejo.org, mailed, or turned in at the center during business hours. Because of the volume of applications, the city says the center coordinator can take up to 4 weeks to review a new one. Applicants who have not heard back after four weeks are asked to contact the Animal Services Coordinator at 949-470-3037.

HOWL wildlife volunteers. HOWL stands for Helping Our Wildlife Locally. Field volunteers complete 20 hours of evening training covering animal services operations, local wildlife biology, common wildlife issues and attractants, and wildlife hazing and conflict mitigation techniques. Assignments can include wildlife patrols, yard and area assessments, trail and park patrols, public education events, wildlife rehabilitation transport and help during emergencies. Field volunteers must be at least 18, are expected to volunteer a minimum of 8 hours a month and attend volunteer meetings every other month, and should be able to work outdoors, including walking or hiking for extended periods.

Wildlife rehabilitation volunteers. These volunteers work alongside shelter staff to help care for orphaned, sick or injured wildlife, including preparing and giving feedings and cleaning enclosures. The role calls for a weekly commitment to one or more regular shifts and at least 8 hours a month, and the city interviews qualifying applicants. The HOWL page says the city is currently accepting applications only for wildlife rehabilitation volunteers.

Sources: Volunteering at the Center, Mission Viejo Animal Services; HOWL Volunteers, Mission Viejo Animal Services. Facts last checked Oct 27, 2026.

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