Behind every wagging tail, purring cat, and joyful adoption story at the Seattle Animal Shelter stands a network of compassionate volunteers. At the center of it all is Volunteer Coordinator Jeff Bandy. With more than 300 active volunteers caring for animals, greeting visitors, and supporting staff in every corner of the shelter, Jeff’s role is both demanding and deeply rewarding.
From Primatology to Pet Welfare
Jeff’s journey to the Seattle Animal Shelter is as unique as it is inspiring. He holds dual degrees in Primatology and Applied Behavior from Central Washington University and spent years working with chimpanzees at the Fauna Foundation in Montreal. There, he led their summer apprenticeship program, an experience that shaped his understanding of just how powerful volunteer support can be.
“The staff could meet the animals’ basic needs,” Jeff recalls. “But it was the volunteers who provided the special attention, the enrichment, and the engagement that made their lives better.”
A Day in the Life
At Seattle’s only open-admission municipal shelter, no two days look the same. Jeff might walk in to find six people waiting for his help before he’s even taken off his helmet and locked his bike. Between responding to five overflowing inboxes, coordinating schedules, and assisting volunteers across programs like dog walking, cat socialization, and vet support, Jeff connects daily with 25 to 30 volunteers who keep the shelter running smoothly.
The Unsung Heroes
While the work can be emotionally challenging, Jeff finds constant motivation in the dedication of volunteers.
“There are some really tough days,” he says. “But what keeps you going is the people who bring positive energy, those who show up on their own time to help. It’s a reminder of how much the community cares.”
That spirit shines brightest in moments of crisis. Jeff recalls a Friday when an already full shelter suddenly received 33 dogs from a single home. “We had dogs in offices, little dogs in cat kennels. It was all hands-on deck,” he says. After Jeff sent an email plea to volunteers and fosters, 27 of the dogs were placed in foster homes within 24 hours.
“It was an incredible response,” he says. “It showed how deeply people care, not just about the animals, but about supporting the animal care staff too.”
Where Volunteers Make the Biggest Difference
When asked where help is needed most, Jeff doesn’t hesitate: dogs. The shelter’s canine program includes 150 volunteers who support everything from the Fit with Fido running program to the Dog Behavior Team and Adoption Assistance.
But the need extends beyond the kennels.
Shelter Helpers: “They’re the backbone,” Jeff says. “They might not interact directly with the animals, but they’re the unseen engine, handling laundry, dishes, and enrichment prep that keeps everything running.”
Shelter Greeters: Often the first face visitors see, these volunteers guide guests through the adoption process and help them find what they need. “They’re like our air traffic controllers,” Jeff explains. “When we don’t have a greeter, the whole operation feels it.”
A ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ Opportunity
For anyone considering volunteering, Jeff says there’s something for everyone.
“It’s choose your own adventure. Dogs, cats, critters—whatever speaks to you, there’s a role that fits.”
Beyond helping animals, volunteering provides a deep sense of purpose and belonging. “People really look forward to their shifts,” Jeff says. “It’s that dopamine hit, knowing you made a difference that day.”
Pride and Purpose
For Jeff, the job is about more than coordination, it’s about connection.
“My favorite part is facilitating the interaction between humans and animals,” he says. “It’s an opportunity to help and give back every single day.”
As a Seattle native, Jeff takes special pride in serving his city.
“I grew up here. Having that seattle.gov email address feels good. It’s a way to give back to the place that raised me.”
Interested in Volunteering?
Volunteers are the heart of the Seattle Animal Shelter, and there is always room for more compassionate hands and hearts.