Have you ever wondered how you can make a difference for animals in need right here in Baton Rouge? From walking dogs and cuddling cats to donating supplies or helping with adoptions, your time and energy can go a long way. Local shelters are filled with pets waiting for a second chance, and they rely on the kindness of the community to keep going. If you’re looking for a way to give back or hoping to welcome a new pet into your life, here are a few shelters worth visiting, supporting, or volunteering with in Baton Rouge.
Why Local Shelters Matter
Animal shelters do so much more than house stray or surrendered pets. They provide medical care, behavioral support, rehabilitation, and a safe place for animals to rest while waiting for a permanent home. Most rely heavily on donations and volunteers to function, and their work has a direct impact on the community by helping reduce stray populations and promote responsible pet ownership.
Companion Animal Alliance (CAA)
Located on Gourrier Avenue near LSU, Companion Animal Alliance is Baton Rouge’s municipal shelter and animal control facility. They accept thousands of animals each year, and their mission is to promote the welfare of companion animals through adoption, fostering, education, and community outreach.
CAA offers several volunteer opportunities for adults and kids alike, including dog walking, cat socialization, and helping with offsite adoption events. Their foster program is another great way to help, especially for those who want to care for animals in their home on a short-term basis.
Website: https://www.caabr.org
Address: 2550 Gourrier Ave, Baton Rouge, LA 70820
Friends of the Animals Baton Rouge
Friends of the Animals (FOTA) focuses on saving dogs from local shelters by placing them in foster homes or their Dog Adoption House until they are adopted. Located on Highland Road, this unique space allows dogs to relax in a home-like environment while meeting potential adopters.
FOTA has a strong volunteer program that includes dog walking, transport, and adoption event support. If you cannot volunteer your time, donations of food, supplies, or funds are always appreciated. FOTA is also a wonderful place to adopt, with friendly staff ready to help you find the right match.
Website: https://www.friendsoftheanimalsbr.org
Address: 8476 Highland Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70808
Cat Haven
If you’re a cat lover, Cat Haven is the perfect place to support. This no-kill shelter is dedicated to rescuing and rehoming stray and abandoned cats in Baton Rouge. Since opening in 1999, they have placed thousands of cats and kittens into loving homes.
Cat Haven offers a range of volunteer opportunities from caring for cats in their adoption center to assisting with events and fundraisers. They also partner with local pet stores for off-site adoption events. Every dollar donated and every hour volunteered helps save lives and promote humane education.
Website: https://www.cathaven.org
Address: 11130 N Harrells Ferry Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70816
Other Ways to Help
If you cannot volunteer regularly, there are still ways to make an impact:
- Donate gently used towels, food, litter, or cleaning supplies
- Share adoptable pets on social media
- Attend fundraisers or community events
- Foster animals temporarily if your schedule allows
Even small gestures, like sharing a post or dropping off supplies, help shelters care for the animals who need it most.
Support Baton Rouge’s Rescues With Furkid Sitting & Services
As a pet sitting service that proudly supports animal welfare in Baton Rouge, Furkid Sitting & Services encourages everyone to get involved with local rescues. Many of our clients are rescue pets, and we’ve had the privilege of adopting and volunteering with CAA, FOTA, and Cat Haven ourselves.
If you ever need help caring for your adopted pets or delivering donations to these shelters, we are happy to lend a hand. Reach out today to learn how we can support you and the animals you love.