City of San Jose Animal Care & Services

Hey ! This evening one of our shelter volunteers shares what a typical shift looks like, from checking socialization notes, to spending time with adult cats, shy cats, and playful kittens:
 
“A typical volunteer shift for me starts with checking the binders in each cat room… I usually start with the adult cats and then make my way down to the kittens, spending time with each one through play, petting, treats, or just sitting with them if they’re feeling shy.
 
A big part of volunteering is helping cats get comfortable with people and showing them that human interaction can be positive and safe… It’s so rewarding to see a cat go from scared and unsure to seeking out attention and affection.” 
 
Want to become a Cat/Kitten Socializer volunteer? Here is how to get started:
📌 Step 1: Attend a Volunteer Orientation (required first step)
📌 Step 2: Submit the online volunteer application and agreements (approval takes ~5–7 business days)
📌 Step 3: Complete required training (online and role-specific classes once approved)
📌 Step 4: Start volunteering through our scheduling system (details shared after onboarding)
 
Upcoming opportunities:
• Volunteer Orientation – Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11 a.m.
• Volunteer Orientation – Saturday, June 20, 2026 at 11 a.m.
 
Want to volunteer in our kitten hut or foster kittens? This hands-on training covers everything you need to know to confidently support our kitten nursery.
• Kitten 101 Class – Sunday, June 7, 2026 at 10 a.m.
 
📍 San José Animal Care Center- 2750 Monterey Rd, San José, CA 95111
 
No experience needed, just patience, kindness, and a love for cats.
 
KittenSeason MakeADifference

This evening's star is Chimney (ID ) who packed a whole lot of adventure into his foster vacation weekend. From making a new dog bestie at the park to investigating every beach smell like it was his full-time job, this boy showed everyone just how fun, social, and lovable he is.

At the dog park, Chimney played for hours and showed off excellent dog-to-dog manners. He loves a good game of tug, respects other dogs’ boundaries, and knows how to keep the fun going. At the beach, he spent his time chasing seagulls (unsuccessfully), shredding kelp with unmatched enthusiasm, and deciding whether ocean waves are exciting or suspicious.

Back at home, Chimney settled in beautifully. After one accident upon arrival, he stayed clean the rest of the weekend, slept quietly in his crate by night two, and proved he can relax calmly in public spaces. He is treat motivated, knows his sit cue well, walks nicely on leash, and checks in often with his people. Most of all, Chimney loves being close to his humans and soaking up affection wherever he goes.

Like many young dogs, he can still be a little jumpy and mouthy when excited, but he is eager to learn and would thrive with continued training and structure.

Chimney is ready to trade weekend vacations for a furever home. Come meet this sweet, goofy, beach-loving boy at our shelter located at 2750 Monterey Rd. in San José.

Monkey D Doggy’s (ID ) first ever Tails & Trails adventure? Total success!

This confident guy hopped right into the car like a seasoned road trip buddy and headed off for a beautiful day at Shady Oaks Park and the Coyote Creek Trail. Toy in mouth the entire time, Monkey D crushed a five-mile outing like it was no big deal.

Between trail walks, lake views, and plenty of activity around him, Monkey D stayed cool, calm, and completely unbothered. Dogs, cyclists, kids, squirrels… he took it all in stride. But his favorite part of the day? Stretching out in the sunshine with his beloved toy beside him, soaking up every second of the warm weather.

Monkey D Doggy is athletic, friendly, and full of personality. He loves toys (especially ball-like ones), enjoys a good adventure, and is also perfectly happy hanging out and doing his own thing. He is an amazing car rider, a fantastic walking companion, and the kind of dog who makes every outing more fun.

Three words to describe him: Confident. Athletic. Friendly.

Ready to hit the trails with Monkey D Doggy (A1400623)? Come meet him at the San José Animal Care Center, 2750 Monterey Road, San José, CA 📍

Get to know Smudge (ID )!

Four-year-old Smudge is a happy, playful boy who has been at the shelter since January 2026, patiently waiting for his person but he continues to greet each day with a wagging spirit and lots of love to give.

His favorite thing in the world is toys, especially balls. Fetch is where Smudge truly shines and he would happily keep the game going all day if he could. In fact, it is helpful to have at least two balls on hand because Smudge does not believe in unnecessary breaks from playtime. He will even sit politely when asked, especially if he knows a ball might be thrown next.

Smudge enjoys his yard time and is always ready for fun and engagement. Water is not really his preference and he tends to avoid the pool, but he does not let that slow down his enjoyment of outdoor time.

With other dogs, Smudge has shown a relaxed and easygoing attitude. He can coexist near them, has done well in playgroup settings, and tends to focus more on toys and enrichment than anything else.

After a longer stay, Smudge has become quite expressive in his kennel and gets excited and wiggly when people walk by, hoping for attention and a chance to say hello.

Smudge is ready for a home where playtime, connection, and companionship are part of everyday life. Come meet him in person and see his personality shine!

📍San José Animal Care Center- 2750 Monterey Road, San José, CA 95111