July is a gentle soul who is initially nervous but becomes "all snuggles" once she bonds with you. She requires an adopter with a strong veterinary relationship due to her history of mammary cancer. She can live with other pets and loves leisurely walks along the harbor.
Nothing makes us happier than seeing our animals thrive in their forever homes.
Buddy's New Life
Buddy came to us scared and underweight. After three months of TLC, he found the Thompson family in Cohasset. Now he spends his days playing on the beach and stealing socks.
— The Thompson Family, Cohasset
Luna Finds Home
Luna was a shy cat who hid from everyone. With patience from our volunteers and her new family, she's become the most affectionate lap cat on the South Shore.
— Sarah M., Scituate Harbor
Max's Second Chance
At 10 years old, Max waited months for someone to see past his gray muzzle. The Reillys did, and now he's the king of their Minot Beach cottage.
Sign up for our newsletter and we'll keep you in the loop.
Get Involved
Volunteer With Us
Our volunteers are the heart of this shelter. From walking dogs to fostering kittens, there's a way for everyone to make a difference.
🐕
Dog Walking
Exercise and socialize our dogs on 2-hour shifts. Fresh air, wagging tails, guaranteed smiles.
7-9 AM, 11:30-1:30 PM, or 6-8 PM
🏡
Fostering
Provide temporary love in your home for cats, kittens, or dogs who need extra attention.
Flexible • 3 weeks to 2 months
🐈
Cat Care
Feeding, socializing, and enrichment for resident cats and small animals.
8-10 AM or 6-8 PM daily
🐾
TNR Team
Trap-neuter-return work managing feral cat populations across the South Shore.
Flexible, as-needed
🧹
Cleaning
Sanitize enclosures, crates, and common areas. One-time or recurring shifts.
Flexible scheduling
🚗
Transport
Drive animals to vet appointments, surgeries, grooming, and adoptive homes.
As needed • Must be 18+
🔧
Facilities
Grounds maintenance, carpentry, painting, snow removal. All skill levels welcome.
Flexible, as-needed
📋
Committees
Finance, fundraising, communications, HR, or Gala planning. Monthly meetings.
Monthly + independent work
Join the Volunteer Waitlist
Spots are currently full, but we'd love to reach out when one opens. Fostering inquiries are always welcome!
✓
You're on the list!
Thank you for your interest in volunteering. We'll reach out as soon as a spot opens that matches your interests. In the meantime, follow us on social media for updates!
Volunteer Spotlight
Meet Our Volunteers
👤
Volunteer of the Month
"Walking dogs here has been the best part of my week for three years. These animals give you so much more than you give them. Every Saturday morning at 7 AM, rain or shine, I'm here."
— Dog Walking Volunteer, 3 years
About Our Shelter
Extraordinary care and careful placement of companion animals since 1992. State Shelter License No. 219.
Our Mission
The Scituate Animal Shelter is dedicated to the extraordinary care and careful placement of stray and unwanted companion animals. Every animal that comes through our doors receives the time, attention, and medical care they need until they find their perfect home.
Each year, our shelter finds loving homes for an average of 500+ animals and reunites dozens of lost pets with their grateful owners. We also serve the broader community through education, pet food assistance, and low-cost veterinary services.
Our Programs & Services
🐾
Pet Adoptions
Dogs, cats, rabbits, and small animals carefully matched with families. Trial adoptions available to ensure a great fit.
🥫
Community Pet Food Pantry
Over 50,000 lbs of free pet food donated annually to help families in financial need keep their pets at home.
💉
Low-Cost Clinics
Regular vaccination clinics and spay/neuter services at reduced cost. Financial assistance available for those in need.
🐱
TNR Program
Trap-neuter-return services for feral cats across Scituate and the greater South Shore. Kittens placed in pairs when possible.
🎓
Education Outreach
Reaching 4,000+ school children annually through classroom visits and guided shelter tours from the very young to the very old.
🏡
Foster Program
Temporary home care for animals needing extra attention. Shelter provides all food, supplies, and veterinary care.
Visit Us
We're located at 780 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Scituate, MA 02066. Walk-ins are welcome on Wednesdays and weekends, or call to schedule an appointment.
We are a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN: 22-3051387) and maintain an 88% rating on Charity Navigator. Annual reports and financial statements are available upon request. We believe in full transparency with our donors and community.
