Arizona Animal Welfare League

I’ve have been involved with AAWL as a volunteer, donor and more since 2007 and have watched it evolve beautifully. They are true to their mission and go above and beyond to try and meet community needs. The dogs and cats at the shelter get the care that’s best for them making them adoptable and helping them find a good fit of a forever home.

AAWL Foster team with our Manager Brandi and dedicated team: Arleth, Cameron and Gieselle thousands of tiny kittens and their Moms have been saved! The love and exceptional care they give is truly inspirational.

Joan Williams

So much love, so much care. AAWL Volunteers have the best jobs ever. The opportunities and diversity of how you can spend your time with the wonderful animals that are lucky enough to land at this shelter are enormous. Friendly, helpful Staff and Management make volunteering fun and educational. The time I give at AAWL is given back to me in so many ways.

I love volunteering with AAWL! They are a wonderful organization that cares about their mission very deeply. The animals are loved passionately and are well cared for. As a volunteer, I have the freedom and flexibility to come in when works for me and to spend my time how I prefer. I am truly able to bond with the animals, enriching their day as they do for me. I love the community at AWWL and could not rate them higher!

I love this shelter. I've been volunteering with the cats for 7 years. Told stories and sang songs to the kittens so they can be happy to go to their fur-ever homes.

Full transparency: I've been volunteering with AAWL for many years. That doesn't make my review biased, it serves to demonstrate that my degree of pride and affection for this organization is so deep that I want to continue my relationship with them. Every person there - from the top administrators to the newest kennel cleaner, as well as a small army of volunteers - genuinely cares about the well-being of these animals. They work tirelessly to provide the resources to rescue animals from unsafe circumstances, they toil long hours in the heat to clean and care for those animals, they fight to save sick and injured animals and tiny struggling babies with the love and ferocity of parents, and they find joy in placing those animals in wonderful forever homes.

AAWL consistently betters the lives of animals. Their practice is wholistic. Not only do they take in and care for scores of animals, they assist owners to better care for their animals, manage thousands of adoptions a year, and provide crucial healthcare for animals both in their care and through community clinics.

This is an amazing non-profit! They work with dogs on all levels, may they be sick or have behavioral issues - staff will work with them, so they can get better and adopted out, making sure it's a good match on both the animal and human side.
Their cattery is super nice and chill. You can go and play with cats and kittens in little rooms, with lots of toys, to get to know them before you adopt.

In 2019, I started my journey with AAWL as a volunteer, spending time with dogs. Little did I know that what began as a great opportunity for me to track a few more active steps throughout my day while walking a furry cutie would lead us to adopt our very own furkid. I have gained so much in just a few years—an awesome community offering knowledge, support, and laughter; the opportunity to be a part of an organization that helps animals and people alike; and countless experiences of personal growth in so many ways.

Volunteering at AAWL has become the spiritual core of my life.
The organization is breath-taking to observe. They never give up
on the dogs and cats and the transformation of these animals is a
joy to behold.

I volunteer/foster for the AZ Animal Welfare League. They are kind and knowledgeable. I'm thankful to have them in my community.

I have been a volunteer with AAWL for over 4 years and love the way the care for their animals and show appreciation for their staff and volunteers. AAWL goes above and beyond to ensure their animals are in a safe environment and that they are cared for from the moment they arrive until they find their forever home. AAWL never gives up on their animals and provides them with love and care. I am proud to be a part of the volunteer team ❤️

I adopted three of my pets from AAWL and they have been so amazing and supportive! New best friends every time.

I have been a volunteer for two years at AAWL. This is the most amazing place. All staff and volunteers are dedicated to providing the best care possible to all of the animals until they find their forever homes. I volunteer every Sunday as a volunteer adoption counselor, and it fills my heart. From the staff, to the volunteers, everyone you meet has the animals best interest at heart. I highly recommend AAWL, if you are looking to adopt or find your new best fur friend, come visit and experience the love and care provided. If you are looking to fill your bucket, sign up to volunteer, and you can experience first hand the wonderful place this is.

I am so happy to be a foster with AAWL! They are so organized and really care for the animals.

AAWL is, quite simply, the best. My family adopted our much beloved cat from them in the 90s, and I’ve been volunteering with the organization since 2016. You would be hard pressed to find a place that cares more about the welfare of cats and dogs (and the humans who love them) than AAWL!

I adopted from AAWL and I'm so thankful they helped me find my forever and ever friend!

I love this organization. It is a no-kill shelter and I see them every day making a difference in an animal's life. I love being part of that. Everyone from the staff to the volunteers is amazing and caring.

I adopted my dog from AAWL 4 years ago. We had a ruff start with integrating her into our home with 3 other dogs. I reached out to AAWL for help and they provided support and techniques for helping all the dogs get along. I am forever grateful for their after adoption support.

The facility is clean and the animals are well cared for. We could tell that the staff puts a lot of love and compassion into what they do.

AAWL is my happy place. Just this week a ci-worker told me my face lights up when I talk about the time I spend at the shelter. The staff at the shelter are all committed to animal welfare. The volunteer opportunities are boundless greatly enriching the experiences of the volunteers and the animals that pass through its doors on their way to their forever homes. It is simply the best.

I volunteer here and I have also adopted animals here over the years. AAWL is the best place in the valley to both volunteer at and to adopt your dog or cat from. They are a no kill shelter, and everytime someone adopts, they are able to save another animal. They also offer low cost vet services to the public. They are so nice, caring and thorough with their work!

I love volunteering at AAWL and getting to spend some of my free time with the dogs waiting for homes. I also adopted my pup Liberty from AAWL in November 2015.

I’m a seasoned volunteer with over 7 years experience in fostering, animal care and public events. Last February I decided it was time to switch my volunteer hours from the AZ humane society to AAWL. I have been so pleased I made the switch, finding the AAWL to be a terrific organization filled with both employees and fellow volunteers that truly care for for the animals, while maximizing each dollar donated. I highly recommend this experience for anyone looking to share a few hours to help our 4-legged friends.

I got my dog Winslow from AAWL. He is the best boy and my best friend. I don’t know what I would do without him.

The Arizona Animal welfare league has an amazing dedicate team of individuals, which includes not only the paid staff but volunteers as well.

Their love for those who have no voice (dogs and cats) is truly inspirational. We adopted a "special needs" kitty in 2021 and she has brought such joy and love to our family. We will be forever grateful.
Joan

My family donates to this organization every year. They care for all their animals at their two main facilities - the Main shelter in Phoenix and the Adoption Center in Chandler. The number of animals they adopt out every year is staggering. In addition, they assist other rescues and the community by providing vaccine clinics every month. Finally, the yearly walk to save the animals are some of my dogs favorite events.

AAWL is amazing! Not only have I adopted 8 beautiful amazing furry family mbets from them but we've fostered for them for at least 13 years. We know first hand all the fantastic things they do and all the beautiful lives they've saved?

The AAWL has an English bill dog mix named
Okie. He came to the AAWL covered in fungal lesions over all his body. His poor little feet were swollen and bleeding but Okie was sweet and happy despite his condition. He would give me and other volunteers a happy smile. He was treated and once he got better, I took him for a walk and his little paws started to hurt him again. He just sat down and would not move. I talked with Okie and told him I understood and would carry him back to his cage. He looked in my eyes, smiled and gave me a big sloppy kiss. I hugged him and told him what a good boy he is. We bonded in that moment. Okie is much better now and is in foster care. The vets here are wonderful as well as all of the staff. We all aim to make our dogs and cats happy and find them a home!

Where do I start......I started as a volunteer for AAWL in 2001. I saw first hand how the People who cared so much for this place of Hope that it was able to grow & grow & grow. Then one day 2 kitties adopted me������������. The support they give with the adoptions is phenomenal. I now support the shelter with donations every Christmas.......it’s the highlight of my year to wear a Santa hat and bring a bag full of goodies off their wish list.

We have adopted 2 dogs from AAWL, and we could never adopt from elsewhere. They are so understanding, professional, and overall just a great place. They make sure dogs find their forever homes and don’t pressure anyone! We love AAWL.

They are the very best! Money goes to animal care. The animals are so well taken care of and Loved. I volunteered there many years ago. It keeps getting better and better. An outstanding non-profit organization.

As a volunteer, I really appreciated AAWL's organization, care for the animals, and their program which made sure every animal received evaluation and attention before offering them for adoption, to make sure the animal was healthy, spayed/neutered, etc! I adopted 2 dogs from AAWL and they made sure the fit was right, even taking extra care to introduce my first dog to the possible second pup at the shelter with play time before making the decision. AAWL is a wonderful and caring shelter!!

We adopted our 2 year old dog, Marilyn, from AAWL when she was 8 weeks old. The staff was kind and knowledgeable, and helped to prepare us for some of the difficulties such a small puppy can bring. We are forever grateful for this organization and their mission to save as navy animals as possible.

I love that AAWL took over the space previously occupied by a puppy mill pet store at our mall. They have had thousands of animals adopted from their mall location since they opened which has saved the lives of many dogs and cats. I also love how innovative they are with their fundraising.

Rescued my first pair of dogs over 20 years ago from aawl. Then rescued my next pair 7 years ago. I was so impressed that I started fostering in 2014. Love this organization and the people who run it and the great volunteers.

I can't say enough about this wonderful organization. I am a volunteer here, working with the dogs. The care that the staff takes to train its' volunteers is fantastic, they train volunteers in every aspect of animal behavior and safety- to ensure the animals get the best care- the goal here is to keep the animals safe and and well cared for and that we stay safe as well. The kennels are clean, the dogs always have clean blankets-fresh water.... As volunteers, we try to walk every dog every day, and give cuddles at every opportunity. Many of these dogs are fostered, have home stays, go hiking- our goal is to prepare them for a loving family. The facility is "no kill" . There is also amazing medical care for these dogs onsite. There are plenty of play yards to take the dogs to. The dogs have play groups to socialize, and have fun. It is all about the dogs here- my kind of place!! Our goal is to cultivate a great family dog, one that a family will love and cherish.!!

22 years ago I adopted my 1st Furbaby from here......20 years later my life changed and i had time and I wanted to volunteer and went here 1st. The place is amazing. The staff and volunteers really care about the animals, learn their personalities, do playgroups to socialize the dogs and get them up and moving. They get love and attention. The Vt cinic is also great and low cost. Throughout the years several of my pups needed various surgeries and here I was able to afford them and my dogs were very well cared for.

I have been an AAWL volunteer for about 3 years & the positive impact it has had on my life is immeasurable.
My husband & I began volunteering shortly after losing our beloved chihuahua, Mijo. We were so sad but when we took our first pup to the yard to play, I saw my husband smile for the first time in 2 months. We were helping a pup in need, but we were healing our souls.

We also like to serve AAWL and the public by working at events such as the monthly low-cost vaccination clinics, Walk to Save Animals, Bark at the Park with the D'backs, Bark Breaks at companies, adoption events at local businesses etc. We enjoy interacting with our animal loving customers, educating them on ways to keep their pets safe & informing them of other AAWL services that would benefit their families & pets. We are serving the public & highlighting an organization that we truly believe in, but we are also enriching our lives by helping others.
The greatest impact AAWL had on my life was when they allowed me to bring Trevor, a pup who needed a break, home with me. My husband, our pup, Lulu, & I spent a week loving on that sweet boy, going on adventures & spoiling him. That renewed, relaxed pup was adopted shortly after he returned to the shelter and I had found a passion & a new purpose for my life. Over the last 1 1/2 years we have welcomed 12 needy pups into our family, given them what they needed to thrive and helped to find the perfect forever homes. Yes, we gave them love, comfort, training, exercise, socialization & sometimes physical therapy. We showed them that the world is not such a scary place & that they will be loved & cared for the rest of their lives - but they gave me so much more. Helping them transform from a sad, scared pup into a happy, confident, balanced pup & placing them in the arms of their forever family feeds my soul and brings me so much joy.
I am grateful to AAWL for the trainings they have provided for me to learn more about animals, for the friendships I have made, and for the opportunity to become a better human being.

I have adopted two cats from AAWL and absolutely love going to visit the other cats in the cattery. The staff and volunteers take such good care of them and give them lots of love. The shelter has an outstanding reputation in the community, as well. Many of my friends have adopted dogs and cats from AAWL and have nothing but positive things to say about this nonprofit. They are doing an extraordinary job helping so many animals.

AAWL has been such an inspiration to me. Being an animal lover myself, I’m so happy that there is such an amazing organization out there that dedicates itself to saving the lives of animals. Just like every living thing on this planet, animals deserve every bit of care and love we can give them. AAWL goes above an beyond to ensure they help as many animals as possible. May god bless them!

We have adopted 3 dogs from AAWL. They are an amazing organization. They are very knowledgeable about each dog in the shelter... What they like, what they don't like, activity level, how their personalities are with other dogs, etc. AAWL makes sure that the adoptees are a match for the adoptors.
Not only do they have adoptions, they also offer low cost vaccines and training classes. AAWL also have camps for the younger generation to get involved with and learn about the dogs, cats and animal ambassadors.
I have only had positive experiencs with AAWL and have recommended then to several friends who have since adopted and had the positive experiencs.

Beautiful facility, filled with amazing animals they have given a second chance to.

I have worked and volunteered for this exceptional organization. They are a no-kill shelter and most people don’t know it was founded by Amanda Blake. “Miss Kitty” from Gunsmoke. The animals are well take care and they sponsor many events to promote their mission of finding homes for their critters. I especially enjoyed visiting their cat area where the felines are spoiled. We got a small kitten through them years ago. The person who brought in the kitten said her landlord was going to through him in the canal. We brought her home and she lived with us for 18 years before passing a few months ago. We also had a cat that couldn’t put up with our other cats. She was very docile. AAWL found a home for her with an older lady with no other animals. It felt great to find a home for this beautiful Persian cat. Yeah, I’m a cat person.

Since my first day of volunteering at AAWL my friends; humans and four legged, have enriched my life tenfold.

The dogs and cats take me to another realm, and my everyday concerns fall to the wayside.

It is so rewarding to have an impact on the animals' lives, and to simultaneously have my heart lightened.

AAWL has such a team approach to the care of the animals. Any questions and concerns for the animals are immediately addressed. And, no topic is unimportant.

I consider AAWL a "be all end all" entity that benefits the most vulnerable members of our society.

My dedication at AAWL has been, and continues to be infinitely rewarding.

They are doing a great job helping lost dogs and helping those who want a dog to love. They are easy to work with and have some animals that really need love.

I'm a volunteer at this AWESOME no-kill, non-profit organization. I've worked w/staff & volunteers that are devoted to rescue, rehabilitate, re-home dogs, cats, puppies & kittens. AAWL strives to reduce shelter population and animal surrendering. They offer affordable vet care and dog training classes to the public. AAWL is very committed to save lives and end animal suffering and homelessness.

Adopted our dog from here 4 years ago! They were patient with us and even let us do a "sleepover" with him for the first night to make sure we were a good fit. The support we have received over these past years is awesome!

This is an incredible organization that truly puts the animals first! I was a medical foster for them years ago and they showed nothing but kindness towards the animals and myself. They fully stand behind their animals!

I love this shelter, well kept and everyone loves the animals. My son adopted his Rei dog over a year ago from this shelter so my daughter and I now volunteer here to give back to them what they gave to my son. His Rei is so amazing, I don't know what he would do without her.

I haven't personally worked with this group, however through their social media I do know they're a group of dedicated staff and volunteers to animals in need. They help many cats, dogs and most important education about spaying and neutering pets. Along with the low cost clinic to help reduce the pet population.

We had a wonderful experience adopting our dog from AAWL! When we adopted him, he was just recovering from life-saving surgery he received from the wonderful vets and care providers at Arizona Animal Welfare League - they had nursed him back to health and provided excellent care and attention to him, all free and as a result of the generous donations from donors who keep this wonderful organization operating every day. Please consider donating your dollars to this worthy cause!!

Great facility with caring people. Effectively provide quality of life to animals in need.

I really loved this organization. I have been following the page for over 6 months and knew for sure I would be adopting my cat there. The Chandler location is a really great location. Even though small, the staff was extremely nice and helpful. The cat for me just wasn't there. So I went to the main location in Phoenix and it's amazing HOW much of a difference it was. The staff in the cat adoption section were extremely rude. Or I guess I should say mainly the girl at the adoption desk. So rude, short, snippy And ignorant. She made us feel stupid for asking any questions about the cats. It is an extremely important process to pick out a pet for your family. You need to find the one that works for you. The personalities go hand in hand. And the front desk worker cut us off and barely helped is. I was not happy at all. I know the dog adoption section is great and I've only heard great things but I'm seeing more and more bad reviews on the cat adoption workers. I don't understand what's wrong with asking questions about the pet you are going to bring into your family. It's important to know about health, food, past, behaviors etc. We didn't get much information. We did get her health records but when we asked any questions all we got in response was a short and rude tone, "is there something wrong with the medical records?". Especially adopting a kitten that was under 6 months I wanted to be absolutely sure our family knew how to take care of her and she will be comfortable. I'm still thinking about the day we adopted our cat and wished it would have been a better experience. I would have 100% left if I didn't fall in love with the kitten we adopted. She was truly perfect. But unfortunately I will not be going back unless something is done about the workers. And I really don't want this to stop me or others from adopting potential animals that we can care for and give them a great home and life.

AAWL is amazing! We are forever grateful for them bringing us together with our loving pup, Murphy! They were so accommodating by allowing us to bring our other dog, Frank, and facilitating their first meeting (which went better than we could have ever imagined). We are so thankful of the hard work they do and will continue to always support this wonderful place!

Alyssa & Dan

Amazing organization who has the animals' happyness as first priority.

Not only did I adopt from AAWL, I was so impressed by their facility that I began volunteering. I just knew I had to be a part of the incredible work they were doing. My rescue dog has rescued me and volunteering is my favorite part of the week. These animals are so well cared for, he staff is so knowledgable and friendly, and the awareness an organization like this raises in our community is priceless.

I started my volunteer journey a few months ago at AAWL. From the first day on I see how much caring there is by all staff members for the animals and each other. They inspire me to be a better person. And I've learned a lot. With so many dogs it always amazes me that staff know every single dogs name and their story. The commitment to all animals is evident at AAWL and I'm proud to be a volunteer. Cheers to AAWL!

As the owner of Watchdog Pet Care in Phoenix, AZ, I follow the work of many animal rescue groups in Arizona and around the country. I have been following Arizona Animal Welfare League on Facebook for a long time. They consistently post creative, attractive pictures of their adoptable animals. They make the animals very appealing through the backstory of the potential pet. Also, they celebrate the ones who have been adopted. They do such a good job that I always repost their posts, and advise my clients to donate to them and adopt from their shelter. I personally donate to this organization as often as I can.

This organization is amazing! They truly care and are always so kind, warm and friendly. The staff and volunteers are passionate and committed individuals. I adopted a deaf Australian Cattle Dog from AAWL and the experience was incredibly wonderful. The facility is clean, comfortable and the second best thing to a forever home. The pups and kitties get so much love and attention. A fully support AAWL and encourage anyone looking for a rescue to check them out.

I have sent many people there looking for an animal or turning one in that is lost. They are a non kill shelter and off medical help at a cost that is affordable compared to the neighbor hood vets. I always suggest them on Facebook ..

I LOVE Arizona Animal Welfare League. I am not only a volunteer there, I also got my cat there in 2010. This nonprofit organization has always made me feel real comfortable about being there and even through struggles I have had, they would always check on my health and other things that would sometime s prevent me from going when I wanted to and never made me feel guilty when I could not make it to an event or had to take time off from volunteering. The staff has always been very welcoming. When I adopted my cat from there, it was also a very rewarding experience and things were completely explained very well. I also LOVE that this is a no-kill shelter and that they rescue animals from other shelters where they are in rescue of being killed.

I've adopted two dogs from here over the past 15 years. Both have turned out to be the absolute best dogs I've ever owned. They do a great job ensuring their pets are adoptable and go to the right home.

The best place to volunteer! They offer so much flexibility for volunteer involvement...all to focus on the animals best interest.

I am a volunteer and a client served. I am grateful and proud to be associated with such an amazing organization! Of course it is always so wonderful when furever homes are found but I never feel bad about these babies being here. I know they are, each and every one, cared for and loved. Can't wait to retire so I can spend more time there!

I love this place. I have been a volunteer for about 2 years, ever since I retired. I play with the cats and do data input work. Both activities are very rewarding and a great use of some of my free time. I would encourage anyone to volunteer for the AAWL !!!

I volunteer at the Chandler Mall location. I love volunteering with the pets because even though I have a a regular job this never feels like work to me. This is the 3rd Non-profit No Kill Animal rescue I have volunteered my time at and is by far the most organized and sanitize wise they are very conscientious. People think they are in their kennels all day and make comments. I let them know they get walked at least 4 times per day and we also take them to the play yard to run around with another dog they get along with and play well with. The pets are very loving and brighten up my day. It is also beneficial to my health. I take each dog for a 10-15 minute walk and before you know it I have walked for 2-3 hours not even realizing it. If I would have walked around my neighborhood I would have stopped long before that. I have made friends volunteering. One of the friends I have made suffers from depression. When her Mom notices her mood she encourages her to volunteer. She tells me that she was depressed but at the end of the day, when I ask if she is still feeling sad, she always says she is glad she came in because she is now much happier than before she came in. I feel Arizona Animal Welfare League definitely cares about their animals and they not only help pets but by volunteering the Animals help us by putting us in a great mood and help us exercise. Lots of fun. If you love pets this is a great place to volunteer.

This organization is an unbelievable place. Staff is kind and caring, the animals are so well cared for...I feel so lucky to be able to help out in my free time to give the animals a little love. If I didn't have a full time job, I would spend every day at this place!!!

We moved to Arizona recently. We are looking for another dog to join our family. This organization is top notch they have a great program to find homes for the animals they have rescued and they are really invested in making the right match for the animals. all the animals are very well cared for.

I am an unpaid volunteer at AAWL and I see on a weekly basis the amount of work that goes into caring for the dogs and cats they put up for adoption. It's amazing what they can do with such a limited staff when combined with a dedicated group of volunteers! I also see firsthand how donations impact the lives of these animals, from even the simplest gifts of toys or treats to the bigger donations that can have an immediate and positive impact at the shelter. One of my favorite daily activities is watching Facebook for the pictures of the newly adopted dogs so I can smile and sometimes cry tears of joy when a dog I have walked and played with finds their new home.

Love the great work they do! It has always amazed me how some people treat their animals. Thankfully there are others, like AAWL, that are dedicated to protecting & saving these sweet souls. Keep up the great work! :-)

Arizona animal welfare league is an AMAZING organization! So happy there is such a safe loving place for dogs to go while they wait to find their forever home! Love spending my time here and making a difference

AAWL try their best to make every adoption successful. They work with you to find the best addition to your family, and they give you the tools to help integrate your new friend into your home. The cat I adopted from them has the potential for severe ear problems (from his previous life in a hoarding situation), and while I am fortunate enough to not need them, AAWL's low-cost vet clinic and 30 days of free pet health insurance made it a lot less nerve-wracking (and his current vet says his ears are probably going to be fine!).

AAWL truly has the best interests of the animals at heart all the way from management, to everyday staff , to its volunteers. In pursuit of its goal of saving lives, the organization is run effectively and efficiently. This is not an organization that is stuck in its ways but is always evolving to do what it does better and thus save more dogs and cats. I'm blessed to be a volunteer at such a great organization!

Great place! Always clean and the staff is very helpful and friendly!

I got my old dog from AAWL nearly 12 years ago. They were wonderful and caring then and have gotten even better since.

They were ao patient while we made sure our adoption was going to work out. At no point did they pressure us to adopt. They even called during our "sleep over" to see how everything was going. It was definitely a good experience.

We adopted a dog and a cat here. The facility is clean and they have programs in place to make sure new adopters are successful. Great place.

In the 80's I went to aawl to adopt a dog. Only few staff then and small. But they knew every animal they had. That makes them different from the others. I met RUFUS he had been there over 5 yrs. He had been badly abused but they never gave up on him. He came home w me and lived the rest of his life w me. He was a funny, happy, loving dog. I've have adopted fogs and cats ftom them since. Although they have gotten bigger (thank goodness) they still make it a point to know the animals to try to get best match. THANK YOU

Adopted 3 dogs from AAWL so far. It's so obvious they really care about the individual dogs, providing weekends away with volunteers as well as learning as much as possible about each dog as individuals (adopters get accurate info abt dog personality). Premises clean, caring staff, dogs regularly exercised. Post adoption services available. LOVE LOVE LOVE AAWL!!!

The animals are cared for by many volunteers and staff who really shower them with affection and concern. Problems are taken care of promptly. The animals are nurtured until they find wonderful furever homes. It is the best.

This organization is run by caring, compassionate individuals who make sure that you are paired with the pet that's best for you!

2 loving dogs-1 owner surrender & 1 E-list= inseparable .

AAWL provides a loving, positive, enriching environment for the dogs waiting for their forever home by daily walks, enrichment activities such as reading to the dogs, bubbles, Find-it games and spending time with the dogs in the kennels. This care is especially evident when very shy dogs are turned around to outgoing happy dogs.

Arizona Animal Welfare League is an amazing no-kill shelter in Phoenix. When I adopted a dog from them and I saw how much they loved and cared for him, I knew I had to be a part of it and help care for dogs before they are adopted by other people as well, so I became a volunteer. I call it the "country club" of shelters since it is so clean and spacious, and the animals receive so much care and attention. The staff forms bonds with many of the dogs and cats and know their particular personalities well, so they are able to choose a good match for families who come to adopt. The goal is to adopted them out to forever homes and of course never see the animals have to return to the shelter again.

AAWL allows its volunteers to participate in numerous areas of the shelter, including direct animal contact right from the start. They invest a lot of time in training and explain the reasons behind the protocols required in interaction with the animals and our responsibilities as volunteers. We, as volunteers, are offered multiple areas to assist in. Socializing and spending time with the animals, taking dogs offsite for a couple of nights when the shelter is closed, participating in offsite adoption events, adoption counseling, administrative help, assisting in the vet clinic, just to name a few. I am MORE than proud to be a part of the volunteer team and I have exposed myself to almost every area offered.

From personal experience I can tell you this is the greatest no kill shelter in the state of Arizona. I have seen first hand how the dogs and cats are helped to thrive and get the best treatment possible to make sure these precious animals get a new loving home forever.

We have volunteered for AAWL and meet many greats friends as humans and furry friends we will never forget.

Years ago I looked into volunteering at AAWL but family & medical issues put a halt after the orientation. About a year ago I came back & there were so many nice improvements how could I not join the team. I deal with MS so it is hard to live by a schedule, which is partly why I'm on disability. The flexibility at the shelter is so awesome. After leaving the shelter I feel so good inside. You might say it gave something back to me, a purpose?

I have been a volunteer for several years now at AAWL-it is the HIGHLIGHT of my life. AAWL is dedicated to helping homeless animals in so many ways. The staff & volunteers heal sick/ injured animals and help dogs with behavioral issues. There are so many ways to participate as a volunteer. I am so addicted to the unconditional love that I receive from the shelter dogs, I consider myself extremely blessed to be a volunteer. Thank you AAWL!

I have been involved with AAWL for more than 13 years, as a former Board Member and as a volunteer. I had to take a 10-year hiatus because of my career, but I always knew that I'd return to volunteer. I had many volunteer options from which to choose upon semi-retirement, but had no doubt about wanting to return to help the animals at AAWL. I have had the opportunity to see many shelters, and none can hold a candle to the dedication to the shelter's cause by administration, staff, veterinarians and volunteers. I love the time I spend with the animals and with fellow volunteers and staff!!

I am in love with this shelter. Its clean, organized and flowing with love and support for each and ever animal that is here. Being a volunteer here, I build relationships with animals that they can feel, and in turn that makes me feel so much better as a human being overall. I truely believe that sometimes I need these animals more then they need me. Their unconditional love for humans is overwhelming. All the the special and unique programs that they have for volunteers is awesome too. It helps the animals get some special love and help get them adopted. I love the AAWL!!!

I have been volunteering at PetMatch, the Chandler Mall location of AAWL, since it opened in November of 2012, and consider it an essential part of my life now. The staff and other volunteers are amazing and each animal is treated like family for the time they are with us. It is such a joy to see an animal that I have created a special bond with adopted, because I know how caring the adoption counselors are, and that they make sure that each family adopts the right animal for them. I have said for some time that we do not make sales at PetMatch, we make families, and know that's how we all look at it.

I have volunteered at the Chandler location for over a year. The facilities are always clean and the employees are always friendly and willing to help. After a few months of volunteering I adopted my cat from the main location. It was a great experience and I was so pleased with the added benefits of adopting from AAWL. Recieving the temporary free pet insurance was a wonderful addition and made me feel at ease. I left the shelter with not only a new best friend but with peace of mind, a free bag of cat food, and a free bag of cat toys. The experience of adopting my amazing cat inspired me to keep volunteering and helping these animals. They have so much love to give to each and every one of us, no matter what they've been through in life. I would highly recommended adopting or volunteering at this organization.

To NativeNicole,

Thank you for being one of our amazing AAWL Volunteers! We couldn't continue to grow our mission of saving homeless without the help of volunteers like yourself. Thank you for the great suggestions on how we can improve the volunteer department! We are always looking for new ways to help volunteers navigate the shelter.

Most of our communication to volunteers goes out through our E-Newsletter and the AAWL Volunteer Facebook page (in terms of office projects or other shelter needs). That goes out every Friday afternoon. The newsletter is also available in print format at Volunteer check-in (in the white binder on the counter). We have found that with a large number of volunteers these are the easiest ways to get the message out to the majority of the volunteers of our shelter needs. Of course, you can always ask any staff member where help is needed and we would be happy to give you direction on what needs to be done!

Great idea about the codes on the white board! We will make something up this week and post it next to the white board so everyone knows what our abbreviations stand for.

If you have any other questions or suggestions for the volunteer department please don't hesitate to contact us, volunteer@aawl.org.

Thank you!
Whitney Fletcher
Director of Volunteers & Special Events

I tried to volunteer at another rescue and had a bad experience that they never wanted to meet with me to show me the ropes. At AAWL, I had my Buddy Day to show me the ropes - he was very knowledgable, and answered all my questions. Since then, all the volunteers are friendly and the staff is so helpful! I'm happy to say I volunteer at AAWL. It makes me happy when I hear of dogs I've interacted with were adopted! Happy tears. I would recommend this organization to adopt from and volunteer at! I've never had a bad experience.

The work done here is amazing and I am proud to be an active contributor to their success. A lot goes in to the daily operations of this animal rescue and the staff is appreciative. When I'm there I truly feel that "every bit helps." As a volunteer I feel valued and respected for the time I put in, the work I do, and the opinions and input I share.

I am so happy and honored to be able to volunteer my time to this organization. I have never seen any animal rescue organization that does such an amazing job. They take great care of the animals, have an outstanding facility and have many measures in place to ensure the animals remain safe and healthy. I am proud to say I'm a volunteer.

Another thing AAWL does is create training programs to proactively tackle common issues with animals (particularly dogs) and to foster knowledge and respect in the youth.

I also adopted a kitten from them recently, and was impressed by the adoption counselor. They really go all out to make sure each animal goes to their FOREVER home. They ask all the right questions and help you understand what you're getting into. They didn't give me a free pass because I'm a volunteer, and they shouldn't. I respect them eve more for that.

Volunteering at the AAWL at the Chandler Mall has been one of the best things I've done. There is nothing like a wet nose or a lick on the face to make your day! The staff and volunteers are great to work with and everyone has a mission to get all the dogs and cats in forever homes. There are lots of things to get done so the time goes by so quickly. I love it and would recommend it to everyone that can spare a couple of hours helping out...you won't regret it!

I am a newbie volunteer at AAWL, and I love this place. I am in my first month working in the cattery and laundry room helping to socialize kittens and all the other awesome cats. This place is incredible and you can tell the love they have for all their animals. It is clean and they really take care of all their animals. To me it is like an animal haven for all those waiting for their furrever homes. There are so many opportunities for these animals. They offer slumber parties and weekend getaways for time out from the shelter and tons of activities for them as well. Everyone is nice here, and I am amazed how the staff interact with the volunteers. I work a full time job and a part time job and still manage to get my hours in at the shelter. It is the highlight of my week. :)

I've just started volunteering at AAWL but so far so good! The place is large and clean with lots of areas to interact with the animals. The people are friendly!

I have been volunteering with AAWL since 2003, there is no better way to distress from a hectic full time corporate job than cuddling cats and kittens. If you have a spare room in your house I would also recommend fostering. People say oh, I can't foster I'd never give them up. But there is no better reward than knowing you prepared that animal for a forever home. Yes you will probably cry when they leave, but they are happy tears.

After I retired I wanted to give back and tried a couple things and nothing felt right. People suggested I try something with animals since I am a huge animal lover but I thought it would be to sad like the awful commercial you see on TV with the sad music and faces. One day after going through the kennel with my granddaughter after her day of camp I felt totally different. The dogs were happy and well cared for the kennels were clean and cool so I signed right up. It is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done and I look forward to it every week. The staff and other volunteers are great and truly care about the animals. I love helping out at the events and seeing the animals get loving homes. Sandy B

I retired 1 year ago from Maricopa County as an HR Specialist. I can't tell you how rewarding and refreshing it is to volunteer with AAWL and work with the dogs. I love to sit with them, talk to them and give them love and hugs which they crave and love you for. I especially enjoy working with the shy/scared dogs...to see them become confident and return their thanks with a great big kiss and tale wag just can not be described, its a feeling between you and the dog. I have leared lots from the staff and other volunteers but mostly from the dogs. I am impressed with the love and attention AAWL provides to all of the animals and the fact that AAWL is a no-kill shelter is the icing on the cake. If you are looking for something to do, a place to volunteer and receive unconditional love then AAWL is the place for you...so come on down and enjoy this happy place. Bobbie

Being a volunteer at AAWL is such a rewarding experience. To be able to see a dog or cat the day they come into the shelter and then see how far they've come the day they get adopted is gratifying. I love being able to be part of the process that finds these amazing animals FURever homes! Going to the shelter is my favorite part of the week! Makes being away from my pets at home while being at school in another state a little less lonely.
The shelter is very clean, the animals are well cared for, and the staff/volunteers are amazing and friendly people. Stop by to check us out, volunteer, donate, or adopt one of our adorable pets. Our rescued pets will be FURever grateful.

It's great volunteering for AAWL. The care and compassion they have for animals is amazing. It's a joy to volunteer and see so many animals find their perfect homes.

This organization is amazing!!!! I volunteered for two years and did a college internship here. I am obsessed with dogs, so I was in heaven. I walked dogs, cleaned kennels, played with them in the yards, and talked to people who were interested in adopting them. Staff and volunteers here are true animal lovers. Their AALW walk every year is cool too. This place is a class act and a great place to volunteer and get an amazing animal.

The Arizona Animal Welfare League and SPCA is the largest and oldest no-kill animal shelter. This shelter is a special organization because, to me, they take the ultimate care to understand the animals that come through the shelter system each and every day. The shelter does this by doing a careful evaluation about the cat or dog's behavior, and take detailed notes about their behavior, i.e. is the cat/dog resource guarding. Then, the veterinary technicians and veterinarian perform a detail examination and keep the animal in a separate area for a couple of weeks if the animal is new/injured/ill. The shelter is also where I learned compassion for both people and animals. I am a special needs person, so the shelter really helps me socially and has a lot of structure, which I need. I love this shelter since the people really do try to find these loving animals a forever home. I also have noticed that the people there are so friendly towards me and all.

I am a volunteer with AAWL and I love it because AAWL actually accomplishs their mission! They rescue and adopt so many animals each and every year and they are constantly working to increase that number. Such an impressive group of animal lovers! I have to drive a long way to work with them but it is totally worth it. Some of the dogs and cats that are rescued are so frightened and miserable when they arrive and within a week they are happy and secure because of the treatment they receive at AAWL. It is an amazing transformation and all brought about by staff and volunteers that love animals. When we went through our volunteer training, the Volunteer Coordinator said the first piece of luck these animals have is that they are now at AAWL and that is so true. The staff and volunteers will make sure that that animal gets adopted and that they have a good life in the meantime! Awsome place!

I adopted my 1st dog from AAWL in 2005. He is perfect in every way. :) A few years ago, I returned and became a canine foster parent. It has been an amazing experience. Gaby, the foster coordinator, is a pleasure to work with! They allow me to select which pups I foster and they are flexible with appointments for vaccinations and medical care. When I have to travel they take the foster pups back until I return. I have successfully fostered 13 dogs and recently adopted the last one. As a puppy she needed training. Shen recently attended Fast-Trak obedience training with Dianne Decker and her behavior has improved exponentially. I recommend AAWL to everyone i know and volunteer setting up the silent auction events at their annual fund raiser. Everyone is great at their jobs and they save a lot of lives. Keep up the excelllent work.

Patti,

With all do respect, I don't know you and had never had contact with you, therefore, I hardly feel that you have any idea of the level of my anger. Yes I was upset. I adopted an animal, became attached and just spent over $600 in 2 weeks. Who wouldn't be upset? I'm sure you yourself would be as well! I was far from out of hand in any way to your staff so I would like to clarify that first and foremost. I would also like to add that we were not offered a free vet appointment. We were offered an appointment but I was specifically told that the visit would be $50 so we took the cat to our vet. As far as your provider being low cost, I find it funny that $50 is the same price that my normal vet charged. I would also like to bring your attention to the plethora of negative reviews that I have seen on other sites. (i.e. Yelp) It does not appear that I am the only person in the valley that has had a negative experience through your organization. I would like to apologize for the delay in response to your rebuttal but it was just brought to my attention that you responded. As you might tell, I am still disheartened about the whole situation . I'm sorry if you feel that I did not act in a way that you would have felt appropriate, but I do not feel that your organization did half as much as it could have to resolve the situation so we all could have come out winners. For me, it was not about receiving a refund, it was about helping an innocent cat that was ill and needed to be taken care of so it could have stayed placed with a more than loving and providing family. Regardless, I'm sure this might fall on deaf ears so I wish you well and I hope that you all do a better job in the future when it comes to the WELFARE of the animals in your custody. Thank you.

To sjenks06 - I am so sorry that you found your experience with us unacceptable. It is unfortunate that we weren’t informed about the diarrhea the cat experienced at the off-site location. It is our policy when informed by the stores, that the animal comes back to us and gets looked at by our veterinarian. We stand behind our animals even though their health cannot always be predicted.
I researched your case after reading your complaint. It sounds like my team had difficulty with the level of anger you were exhibiting. They did everything they could to find a resolution; offering you an appointment at our low cost public clinic, for the cat to be seen by our shelter vet at no cost, assistance in filing a medical insurance claim, and to return the cat so we could care for it. We offered you another cat because many times people request that option rather than taking the cat back after treatment. None of these options worked for you, so we refunded the adoption fee.
I wish that we could predict the health of all our animals. These animals are exposed to so much stress by being moved and shown in public places. The cat was with us for quite some time, was one of our foster kittens, and the only issue it ever had was a cold for a short period of time.
I hope, with all sincerity, that you find a cat that brings you happiness.
Patti DuBois, Director of Shelter Operations

This is a very professionaly-run animal rescue organization with so many different services - they are so much more than an animal "shelter". They have a wonderful new low-cost vet center where anyone can take their animals for treatments or vaccines or whatever they need. They have a great dog training program which I used with great success. They have a whole education department with kids programs and summer camps. They have hundreds of volunteers and I looked into fostering some puppies which I hope to do next year when I get settled in my new home. I can't say enough good things about them and the people that work there. They also get great ratings from charity rating groups which is very important to my husband and me. They have a beautiful new building and the animals look so happy and well cared for - they have toys and soft bedding and I love the way everyone knows their names and all about them. They really get to know the animals - they don't just "hand them out" like some groups do. I can't say enough good things about them.

Many cat and dog lovers think "It would be a good thing for me to volunteer at a shelter." But they think it will be emotionally draining. When people find out I volunteer at AAWL, they ask "How do you do it?" The fact that AAWL is a no-kill shelter was a large factor in my decision. I now train volunteers and I tell them "When you leave at the end of a shift, you will feel good!" Even on long days when I am driving home tired and dirty, I feel I've done something worthwhile. I have made a difference in fighting Maricopa County's disgraceful statistic as the second largest area in the country for unwanted and euthanized pets. At AAWL I have worked a lot with the dogs; many of whom are right off the truck from "the pound". I talk to them and I say "I know you are scared and confused. You may have lived on the streets, you may have been abused, you may have been abandoned by your owners. But don't worry. Everyone here will treat you well. You just have to wait for your people to come for you." So that is how I look at it. We are just taking care of these animals until their forever families come for them. And that is rewarding work. While offering the expected activites caring for cats and dogs, AAWL offers volunteers many other activities. I have enjoyed working with the cats, dogs, reception, clerical, the clinic, off-site events, adoption counseling, training other volunteers, special events, and working with the various critters in the Education Department. As a designer and former teacher, I especially like taking on "odd jobs" such as researching a dog walking program for cardiac patients, working on AAWL training materials, reviewing plans for the new shelter, or painting a mural. AAWL can probably find a way to use any skills,interests, or talents that volunteers bring with them. And that feels good.

We heard about the shelter from a friend. Our dog passed away in October and have been wanting another. It is so much better to adopt a dog in need than to purchase one so we decided to keep looking at the shelter. We visited the shelter a few times for volunteer training and to look at dogs. Each time was a pleasant experience. My friend told us about these puppies and when we saw them were in love. They are brother and sister and we wanted to keep them together. The adoption was easy and everyone involved was very professional and helpful. There is plenty of information and a surprise insurance plan for a month. We will try to be more involved with the shelter through volunteering in the future.

I became a volunteer at AAWL in September 2011 and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute so far. Working with these dogs has truly become a passion for me and I can't imagine doing anything else. Volunteering at AAWL has literally become "what I do" and "who I am". My favorite thing to do is work with a new dog at the shelter who is very shy and nervous about being in this new strange place. I love spending time with them, watching them grow on a daily basis and helping them find a new family to spend the rest of their lives with. Gordon W., Chandler, AZ

Exceptional, outstanding, caring, wonderful, much needed, priceless, hardworking, committed and irreplaceable are just a few words to describe the Arizona Animal Welfare Leage & SPCA, Arizona's Oldest & Largest No-Kill Shelter. The AAWL's entire staff, board of directors & volunteers go above and beyond to assist, care for, help and nurture dogs & cats. On a daily basis, 365 days a year, their goal is to save the lives of dogs & cats. This is no simple endeavor, yet they do it with extreme care, excellent organization, proactive communication, tenacity, kindness, integrity, smiles & joy. The AAWL excels at saving the lives of animals who would otherwise be euthanized, assisting with care & control of over population of animals by spaying & neutering all animals that come through the shelter/are up for adoption, education programs for the community & their genuine concern and love of animals which is exemplified each day through great care of the animals which includes feeding, observations, cleaning, assessment of the animals during intake, medication/health/medical treatment if needed, training, fostering programs, fundraising, events and lots of tender loving care. What the AAWL has been able to achieve & hopes to achieve in the future is awe inspiring & a true example of an outstanding non-profit. Sincerely, Melissa A.

I am part of an email rescue network. Three years ago there was a dog featured at the County Animal Shelter that needed medical help. My husband and I literally fell in love with the picture. AAWL, an organization that rescues dogs and cats off the e-lists at County and Arizona Humane Society, rescued that dog. He underwent numerous surgeries to reconnect his ear and reduce the infected areas. My husband and I decided on the spot that since AAWL was giving this boy a chance, we would do what we could to "pay them back" so of course we adopted him and started our volunteer career there. I have been astounded by the numerous services and the caring people that work and volunteer there. They not only rescue animals from the e-lists from the above organizations; they will take medically needy animals because of the full-time Veterinary support. In another vein, AAWL has camps for children, starting with the very young and up through teenagers, that promote love and respect for all animals. The intent is to help break the cycle of abuse as early as possible. The children have interaction with exotic rescued animals, as well as dogs and puppies and cats and kittens. AAWL also offers low-cost veterinary service for the community, which is sorely needed. They promote programs ie “The Last Litter” program which will take the momma dog and the puppies, spay and neuter them all for free, give mama back to the family and adopt out the puppies. This has been very successful. The animals that are under the care of AAWL, get clean kennels and bedding, medical care, social interaction with staff and volunteers, walks and exercise (biking), lots of love and attention, and start learning behavioral expectations. This is all in preparation for finding them the perfect loving fur-ever home. AAWL promotes adopt, foster, spay/neuter and donate! Those are words to live by in our world. I can’t tell you how proud I am that I can be a small part of this wonderful organization. I highly recommend it to everyone. This organization saves numerous lives! There were over 3000 adoptions last year alone. AAWL is a winner all around for animals!!!

My husband and I have been volunteering at AAWL for over 2 years. They do a great job at the events given how much organization is required. Everyone at the AAWL is very dedicated to helping the animals. Other volunteers have been there for many years so that tells me they have been acknowledged and feel valued. I love the place so much that I hope to be employed there some day soon and make my own contribution to this wonderful place. Sure, sometimes communication isn't as good as it might be but the logistics involved in,say, an offsite adoption event can be very difficult and things can change but everyone just takes a deep breath and gets on with it for the animals sake and this is everyone's priority. We love AAWL!

While I am just starting out with the AAWL, I have experienced a dedication of the staff and volunteers to the animals. Each person I have come in contact with has the animals at the center of their attention. During this same period, I have adopted a small mixed breed puppy, that arrived in excellent health and has brought much joy to our home and lives. The one event that I worked was Unleashed and the entire organization worked well together to provide the patrons and clients an enjoyable and rewarding experience. I look forward to expanding my involvement with the AAWL and learning significantly more than I know today as well as meeting many many great people who I could call friends.

I began volunteering with AAWL in October of 2010 and I knew right away that this place was special. I started out just walking and socializing dogs but it wasn't long before I was helping out with events and going through the dog adoption counselor training! They have all kinds of great programs in place that help the animals with socialization and assist animals that are hard to adopt and are dealing with stress cope with their issues and help them get adopted. Dogs are walked several times a day, have access to the best veterinary care, cats live in the lap of luxury - they are all just waiting for their forever homes. I spend ALL of my free time at the Shelter doing whatever I can to help the animals. We take the dogs to off site adoption events, hiking to local Phoenix trails, we try to give them as much exposure as possible. The staff is friendly from the Animal Care Techs up to the CEO - it feels like one big family. To date I have close to 1,000 hours in just a little over 1 year. I would do anything for AAWL and the animals that it serves.

Before I became a mama to my first dog, I was the furthest thing from an animal lover. In fact, I was a pretty awful person. Growing up, my parents kept our family dog in a back room, where he was neglected and ignored for years. Later on in my teens, I aggressively scolded a 6 week old puppy for simply chewing a pair of my shoes. In my twenties, I wore fur. In a nutshell, I was young and had zero training on the proper treatment of animals. But when my pug, King was placed in my arms in November of 2005, my entire world changed. Everything I did from then on involved filling his life with comfort and love. I felt it was my DUTY to extend that same love to other animals, especially the ones who've never experienced it. Volunteering with AAWL was the next step, where I became a dog walker. Even just spending that small amount of time with an animal is valuable. The look in their eyes when you take the time to pet them and talk to them is in a word, PRICELESS. The staff and volunteers are passionate about what they do, providing each animal with the care and compassion it deserves. The education department is phenomenal, providing kids with the knowledge they need in order to make a difference in our animal communities-(something I wish I had experienced early on in life). The fund raising events are fun and well orchestrated, with long time supporters and friends coming together with one common goal: Making the life of an animal a GOOD one. My experience at AAWL has been rewarding as well as healing. I've learned It's never too late to do right by an animal and the first step is supporting this organization!

I went to several animal shelters and visited before I arrived at AAWL. At the time I was looking to adopt maybe. In the end I decided it would be best to volunteer to get my "puppy fix" and I couldn't have picked a better place! Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. All the animals are so well taken care of and they do everything in their power to adopt the cats and dogs out to the right families. As a volunteer I am able to play with dogs and cats whenever I want. I can also take dogs home on a "Gimme A Break" weekend program so that they can enjoy some peace and quite for a few days. There are all kinds of jobs you can do as a volunteer, from laundry to walking to fostering animals. All activities are carefully watched over, with information relayed back to the adoptions counselors for better matchmaking during adoptions. The best ever!

Aawl of Phoenix saves animal lives in Phoenix. The rescue dogs from the euthanasia list, get them into foster homes, take care of medical needs. Many animals are alive today and happily in their forever homes because of Aawl.

I have just recently started volunteering at AAWL and already I have been extremely impressed with the impact they have on the community and the dedicated team who runs the show. Every individual I have worked with is extremely compassionate and very helpful. This is an organization that is in a major growth stage and is doing all of the right things. I will continue to volunteer and donate as long as I am able and I encourage others to check it out!

I have been a volunteer at AAWL for almost one year. Most frequently, I "potty break" the dogs in the evening, play with, groom, and scoop litter in the cattery, and do ALOT of laundry. I call the time I spend at the shelter my "Zen". I want to help these animals as much as I possibly can and AAWL is the perfect venue for me to make that happen. This organization does amazing work. They never lose sight of the fact that the care and careful placing of these animals is their number one goal. The staff are wonderful and the volunteers are top notch. It is very obvious that all are passionate about this cause and love the animals as their own. Their success has opened the door for them to receive a very large donation which has allowed AAWL to break ground on a new, bigger, more modern facility. I am absolutely thrilled to see this happen and am so proud that my small contributions add to the success of the shelter. As well, they offer great training programs for staff & volunteers dealing with subjects such as basic training, behavioral training, and adoption counseling. They also offer a number of camps and volunteer programs for kids. Other programs include fostering, maintaining adoption facilities in a number of different pet stores, running a discount medical clinic and vaccination clinic, fundraising events, volunteer appreciation and so much more. I love being a part of AAWL and I believe they are one of the premier not-for-profit organizations in the city, state and country.

I stumbled upon AAWL by asking my local pet store where I could donate dog dishes and toys. I'd recently had to put my cocker Clyde down and I wasn't ready for a new pet yet. When I dropped off the items I was greeted by a volunteer who was so kind even though the shelter wasn't open yet. I saw her shirt and asked her how I could get involved. I went through training and eventually was placed in the infirmary. This is where the really sick animals come to be treated before they are ready for adoption. I saw the meticulous care that each animal got and the true care and concern of Austin and his staff. I eventually found Pickle and Farley my new dogs through the infirmary. The care that AAWL takes in finding and rehabilitate animals to become the most adoptable pets is amazing. I'm currently not volunteering but I still refer as many people as I can who are looking for a new furry addition to their family. AAWL will always be near and dear to me and my furry family. Thank you AAWL and all it's staff and volunteers for the dedication you have. It definitely shows thorough in the animals and everything you do.

I've been a member of the board for over 6 years. During that time I have seen tremendous changes, all for the good, but AAWL has never forgotten its mission of rescuing dogs and cats from being euthanized by the county. The best thing about AAWL is that it doesn't kill animals to "make space" just because an animal doesn't immediately find a home. AAWL will work with the animal to solve any underlying reason why the animal has been overlooked. Sometimes the animal just needs a little PR to get the public to consider it. AAWL has been really creative, especially under our new director, to find ways to interest the public in adopting rescue animals. For instance, this year, AAWL is having its first H'AAWL'-o-Ween event, a fun event for families with children to visit the Shelter. AAWL has a summer camp program with classes for children of all ages from introducing them to animals for the very youngest kids to developing interest in working in shelter or being a vet for teens. AAWL also has a "Gimme a Break" program to provide dogs who have been in the shelter for a while a break from the kennel environment by encouraging volunteers to take a dog home for a weekend. I can't say enough good things about AAWL. It keeps getting better every year.

It is a terrific organization to volunteer for! I also foster & act as an adoptions councilor. I have adopted 2 pets from there & so you can say I have a great all around view! Their mission is so worthwhile & AAWL does a great job at working towards their goals. I recently had the opportunity to help with a large adoption event. It was so heartwarming! One of the adopters I worked with hugged me after her adoption was over. Please consider this terrific organization to donate to, volunteer with, foster for and adopt from!

my wife and i both take great pleasure in volunteering with the cats and also adopted one. the aawl is a great organization that we are proud to be a part of.

In the 90s, a new concept hit the animal shelter community – the ‘No Kill’ movement. Shelters such as the San Francisco SPCA worked to change the status quo in their community. Little did the country know, but the Arizona Animal Welfare League was already operating a No Kill shelter. The AAWL has always advocated for animal welfare and has developed programs and services designed educate the public, bring awareness of the pet overpopulation problem and provide needed public services to the community they serve. Combined, these efforts are contributing to ending the needless euthanasia of animals.

This advocacy is seen every day with the dedicated staff and army of volunteers who work tirelessly to save animals. They don’t say the dog or cat is too old or unhealthily but rather, they work to save every life they can. The shelter is a partner with the Maddie’s project as well as having strong collaborative relationships with other Valley rescue groups and pet affiliations.

I have seen this personally as a volunteer, donor and adopter of four dogs from the AAWL. As a volunteer, I work with the medical staff. The vet and vets techs are all professional and compassionate. Emergencies are addressed with the utmost professionalism and with the animals’ comfort and safety in mind. The adoption counselors take the extra time to work with potential adopters so they understand the animal’s history. The education and volunteer departments have a monumental task but are always willing to answer questions. The management team has a vision for the shelter and works to solicit donations as well as being the front face of the shelter. The training department has developed programs that differentiate AAWL from other Valley shelters.

These actions don’t go unnoticed because with the help of an anonymous donation, the shelter is embarking on building a new adoption center in order to increase the life saving potential. That is also why your help is needed. If you are considering an organization to make a donation, volunteer your time, looking for a companion animal or just want to get involved in the animal welfare community, please consider the AAWL.

I volunteer at Arizona Znimzl Welfare League/SPCA. I have also adoped 2 cats from them. The care and kindness AAWL/SPCA gives all of the animals in their care is outstanding. The cats are well cared for, socialized, and taught things to help them get adopted. I am a "foster failure" as I took my Willie Tiger home as a behavioral foster, and could not give him up. The cats are grouped as to their personality type to help them get the best home.

This past year we adopted a beautiful spunky cocker spaniel. The staff at AAWL was amazing and supportive. We took the puppy classes and the instructors were great and we learned valuable tips. I just wish we would have taken this class when we got our first dog. The staff and volunteers at the AAWL are fantastic and keep the animals well cared. The adoption counselors take the time to make sure that the animals adopted are the right fit and will be adopted into loving homes. The Education Department is dedicated to teaching children about animals and offer great programs.

For over 30 years, I have donated to many animal agencies. Arizona Animal Welfare League is one of my favorites. As a no-kill shelter, AAWL allows the animals in their care the time they need to recover from poor treatment or abandonment, or to "unlearn" behaviors that may prevent them from being adopted.

I adopted my dog Griffin from AAWL about 5 years ago. He is a lovely boy but exhibited signs early on that he may have been mistreated by his former owner. It's not pleasant to think what might have happened to him if AAWL had not stepped in and given him a new chance. I know my life would be diminished without him!

AAWL's emphasis is always on helping animals find their forever homes. Such a pure focus allows them to reach out to the community to constantly uncover loving homes for animals.

I feel my donations to AAWL are well-spent. This is a quality animal agency serving the metro Phoenix area. I am proud to support them.

My husband and I adopted our first baby (dog) from the AAWL in 1997 and I've been a financial donor ever since. We now have two more dogs from the AAWL, and we also volunteer. I like the fact that the shelter is no-kill and has been in existence a long time in our area. The staff is great, and the volunteer staff is huge in number, and fantastic at what they do! Everyone pitches in quickly when there is a need.

This shelter is awesome. It's across the street from a community college and has many opportunities to adopt and volunteer. Everyone is very kind and takes the time to ensure the right fit for you.

When I was attending the community college across the street, I would often here dogs barking and was curious to find out what all the commotion was. I visited both the shelter and the website www.aawl.org, and found so many opportunities to volunteer and help save the lives of animals. Each and every day, a pet finds a forever home and brings joy to a loving family, thanks to AAWL. With the start of construction on the new adoption center, any funds they can get would be most helpful.

I initially went there to donate old towels and blankets and asked if I could walk around, they were very friendly and said sure. When my daughter and I 1st entered the outdoor kennel area there was a box of dog treats there for visitors to feed treats to the dogs, to help the dogs become socialized and know that people are a good thing. I said to my daughter " do you hear that?" she said hear what? and I said " exactly! you dont hear the dogs barking " they were relaxed and happy and napping in nice clean surroundings. It was at that moment i decided to volunteer and AAWL. It was a happy, clean place for the animals, and since I started, the people I have met are some of the nicest and most dedicated animal lovers I have met anywhere. I see 1st hand the love and care the dogs recieve, and cats too.

The AAWL is a rewarding volunteer organization! Once I finally signed up for orientation and found out how educational & friendly everyone was, I wish I had made the decision to do it sooner. At the AAWL, there are nice big yards to play with the dogs and canals nearby for quiet and refreshing walks - the dogs love it! It is just amazing how well the AAWL does their job - from the layout of the kennels to the efficiency of the cattery to the ease of tracking daily potty breaks. Not to mention volunteer communication and adoption programs. Every day the AAWL saves an animal and that's a beautiful thing. I LOVE VOLUNTEERING and aspire to help even more!

I love volunteering with the Arizona Animal Welfare League. They have an amazing training program for volunteers and the tenured volunteers and staff are incredibly helpful at assisting you. Everyone there makes you feel appreciated and welcome. The work they do every day is amazing and I was SO proud to be a part of the 2011 Empty the Shelter event.

The staff at AAWL is super supportive and appreciative of its volunteers.
This organization gets most of its animals from the euthanasia lists of other shelters. Since AAWL is a no-kill shelter there is a real commitment to these animals to find them a forever home.

We foster puppies for AAWL and volunteer at some of the events. The organization is well organized and makes sure every volunteer is well educated to deal with the animals or whatever assignment they have. The staff is friendly and cares very much about the animals.

I have volunteered at AAWL for over a year and have really enjoyed my experience there. I love the fact that it's no-kill shelter, so they keep a dog or cat at the shelter for as long as it takes to find them a forever home. Their staff and volunteers work with the animals that need more socialization or training to become more adoptable. If a dog is very scared and shy, the staff and volunteers work with the dog to get him/her used to being around lots of people, etc, or whatever the dog needs. They also work with special needs animals, providing the appropriate medical care. I like how the staff get to know each animal and provide that animal with whatever it needs medically, socially, physically and emotionally.

Arizona's oldest and largest no-kill shelter for dogs and cats. Animals are rescued from the county facility and the humane society - most are scheduled to be euthanized. AAWL/SPCA provides full medical evaluation and treatment, behavior evaluation and modification when needed, spay/neuter surgeries on all animals, current vaccines and microchip. Adopt more than 2,000 animals a year. Also provides educational programming for children ages 4-18. Teen Tracks program for teens; robust foster and volunteer programs; conducts training classes, puppy and kitten socialization and much more.