I stared volunteering at the AHS in 11/08 and am very impressed by the high level of care for the animals. The volunteers here are given a lot of freedom to run the show (with support from staff whenever needed) - and they take the time to share a lot of information with newcomers on how to best help the animals. Experienced volunteers teach classes on handling and training dogs of all temperaments and sizes.

The building is older, but it's constantly being cleaned. I work with the dogs and have noticed that kennels are cleaned constantly and the dogs are walked several times during the day. Volunteers walk around and quiet the kennels when one or two barking dogs are getting the rest riled up, and signs of stress are sought out to make sure the dogs are adjusting well to their short time in the kennel before going to their forever home.

Pros: Animals are loved and well-cared for, and the facility is kept very clean

Cons: The only thing I can think of is that it could be bigger to help even more animals!

I enjoy volunteering at the AHS. The AHS is a place for me to get away from school and work and go make a difference. All of the dogs are great. It is a delight to be around other people that share the same interests as you which is the love of dogs and compassion. I always look forward to going and give my time to a wonderful cause. It is a bittersweet feeling when the dogs get adopted. I hope all the dogs that come to the shelter find a forever home and family that will love them. I am thankful that the AHS exists and hopeful that it will thrive to save more dogs. The animals at the shelter are lucky to have a great group of staff and volunteers. My favorite thing to do with the dogs is take them outside in the field, find a spot under a tree and sit with them and pet them. It is a priceless experience.

Pros: Awesome Animals

Cons: Dog kennels: need more and better ones

I've volunteered at AHS off and on since the early 90's It has gone through one move and many administrations, but through it all the main focus of saving pets lives has been maintained and accomplished .

With more than 100 scheduled, committed volunteers, a smaller but similarly committed staff and a lot of monetary support from the community this shelter is a standout. That is why it was picked for on of the initial roll-outs of the Meet Your Match program from the ASPCA. AHS had caught the ASPCA's attention after they accepted in hurricane Katrina pets (and later strays) and were on many news programs and Animal Planet for their efforts.

If you want to adopt and animal, this is the place to find one. If you want to volunteer, this is the place to get the training to be a great volunteer.

Pros: Great place to save pet lives, support hurricane pet victums and volunteer

Cons: na

The feral cat program run by Leticia Stivers and the AHS team is TOP NOTCH! Over 5000 cats sterilized in 2008. Dr. Luke and surgical team have a very low surgical loss rate for these numbers and do an outstanding job. The receiving department works closely with not only the public but with rescues and trappers to assist when they can with tame kittens. They have a wonderful foster program.
The dogs have great volunteers too and a very well thought out and planned volunteer program.
The ED, BOD, Staff and Volunteers are the heart and soul of this facility and daily provide safe haven to hundreds of animals.

Pros: Feral cat program, strong community network, Top notch staff

Cons: Needs newer digs

I've been volunteering at AHS for over two years now. I'm a huge animal lover and wanted to help homeless animals find a second chance at a forever home. When I started volunteering I had no idea how much it would change my life. The staff and volunteers are passionate people who work very hard to make the shelter experience a good one for these homeless animals. As a volunteer I try to help the animals gain hope. Animals are amazing, they really do recover from a traumatic experience and learn how to trust again. Its such a fulfilling experience to give your time to a great cause.

Pros: a great shelter

Cons: needs a make-over