The Ultimate Guide To Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS): 7 Ways They Are Transforming Animal Welfare In 2025

The Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) stands as a critical pillar of animal welfare in the greater Auburn, Washington, community, operating not just as a shelter but as a comprehensive community resource center. As of December 10, 2025, the organization is navigating a period of significant change and growth, marked by new leadership and a packed calendar of fundraising and community events for 2025, all while maintaining its core mission of enriching the lives of companion animals and people.

The commitment of AVHS goes beyond simple sheltering; it involves robust programs for pet adoption, spay/neuter services, and community engagement initiatives that address the root causes of animal homelessness and neglect. From a recent high-profile change in executive leadership to specific adoption pleas for long-term residents like Bubba the dog, the organization continues to demonstrate its dynamic role in animal rescue and care.

Auburn Valley Humane Society: At-a-Glance Biography and Profile

The Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS) serves as the primary animal shelter for the City of Auburn and surrounding areas, providing crucial services for lost, abandoned, and surrendered pets.

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• Official Name: Auburn Valley Humane Society (AVHS)
• Mission Statement: The Auburn Valley Humane Society enriches the lives of companion animals and people through animal sheltering, programs, and community engagement.
• Vision Statement: To be a model of excellence in the advancement of animal welfare.
• Physical Address: 4910 A St SE, Auburn, WA 98092.
• General Shelter Hours: Open 6 days a week, 11 am – 6 pm (Closed Wednesdays).
• General Phone: (253) 249-7849 (Also for Pet Licensing)
• Pet Food Pantry Contact: (253) 409-1505 or programs@auburnvalleyhs.org.
• Key Facilities: Main Shelter, AVHS Thrift Store & More, AVHS Cat Café.
• Recent Leadership Update: The organization recently terminated its President and CEO and has brought in an experienced nonprofit leader to guide the organization through its transition.

The AVHS Adoption Process and Current Shelter Needs

Adopting a pet from AVHS is a straightforward, multi-step process designed to ensure a successful, lifelong match between the animal and its new family. The process begins with potential adopters viewing available pets either online through the AVHS website or by visiting the shelter in person during open hours.

Once an animal is selected, an adoption application is completed. The shelter staff then reviews the application and conducts a meet-and-greet to ensure compatibility. This thorough approach is part of their commitment to animal welfare, ensuring that each dog, cat, or critter finds a permanent, loving home.

Understanding Adoption Fees and Hold Fees

The fees collected by AVHS are essential for funding the shelter's operations, veterinary care, and educational programs. The fee structure is transparent, with specific hold fees to reserve a pet and varying adoption fees based on the type of animal.

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• Dog Hold Fee: $50.00
• Cat Hold Fee: $25.00
• Rabbit Adoption Fee: $65.00
• Working Cat Adoption: $0 (These cats are typically not suitable as house pets and are adopted for barn or warehouse rodent control).

The Story of Long-Term Foster, Bubba

The shelter often highlights individual animals with unique needs, demonstrating their dedication to every pet. A recent example is Bubba, a 6-year-old dog who has been waiting for a permanent home for over a year. AVHS is actively seeking a permanent adopter or a new, long-term foster home for Bubba, whose story underscores the ongoing challenge of finding matches for animals that require special attention or have been in the system for an extended period.

7 Key Ways to Get Involved with Auburn Valley Humane Society in 2025

Community engagement is a cornerstone of the AVHS mission, and the organization relies heavily on local support through volunteering, donations, and participation in fundraising events. The 2025 calendar is filled with opportunities for the public to contribute to animal welfare.

1. Become an AVHS Volunteer All-Star

Volunteers are an integral part of the organization, augmenting the staff's ability to care for the hundreds of animals that pass through the shelter each year. The online application and orientation process make it easy to start.

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Volunteer roles are diverse, catering to different interests and schedules, including:

• Animal Care Technicians (ACT) Assistant: Assisting with the daily care of animals, including feeding and kennel cleaning. [cite: 8 in previous step]
• Laundry and Hospitality: Ensuring the shelter remains clean and comfortable. [cite: 1 in previous step]
• Thrift Store: Working at the AVHS Thrift Store & More, which raises crucial funds for the shelter.
• Cat Café: Assisting with the care and socialization of cats in the dedicated Cat Café space.
• Outreach/Fundraising: Helping organize and staff community events.

2. Participate in the GiveBIG 2025 Campaign

AVHS will be a major participant in the GiveBIG event on May 6-7, 2025. This two-day online giving event is a critical fundraising opportunity for nonprofit organizations across the state, and donations made during this period directly support the shelter’s programs and operational needs.

3. Attend the "Wags N' Waves" Dog Swim Day

In 2025, AVHS will benefit from the popular "Wags N' Waves" event at Wild Waves Theme & Water Park. This exhilarating dog-only swim day is a unique community event, with a portion of the sales dedicated to supporting the Auburn Valley Humane Society. This event is a fun way to treat your dog while contributing to animal welfare.

4. Get Your Pet’s Photo with Santa Paws

A beloved annual tradition, the "Photos with Santa Paws" event is scheduled for Saturday, December 13, 2025. The proceeds from this event are vital, providing care for the lost and homeless animals at AVHS. It's a great opportunity for pet owners to get festive photos while supporting a good cause.

5. Support the 2026 Pet Calendar Fundraiser

The annual pet calendar contest and fundraiser is another key initiative. The 2026 AVHS Pet Calendar Fundraiser will begin selling calendars on November 15, 2025, featuring winning photos of beloved local pets. This is a simple yet effective way to donate and get a beautiful keepsake.

6. Utilize the Pet Food Pantry Program

For community members experiencing financial hardship, the AVHS Pet Food Pantry offers a once-a-month service to help keep pets in their homes and prevent surrenders. This program is a direct demonstration of the organization's commitment to supporting both animals and people in the community.

7. Shop at the AVHS Thrift Store & More

Located at 1123 E Main Street in Auburn, the Thrift Store is a year-round fundraising mechanism. By donating gently used items or shopping at the store, community members contribute directly to the shelter's financial stability, ensuring that funds are available for emergency medical care and daily operations.

The Auburn Valley Humane Society remains a dynamic and essential resource. With a clear vision to be a model of excellence in animal welfare and a dedicated community of supporters and volunteers, AVHS continues to be the beacon of hope for companion animals in Auburn and the surrounding Puget Sound area.