Shelter Squad

Hands-On Animal Shelter Experience for TeensShelter Squad is the Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s (AWLA) premier youth program, designed for teens ages 13–15 who want meaningful, hands-on experience helping animals in a professional shelter environment. Through this......More

Hands-On Animal Shelter Experience for TeensShelter Squad is the Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s (AWLA) premier youth program, designed for teens ages 13–15 who want meaningful, hands-on experience helping animals in a professional shelter environment. Through this program, young animal lovers participate in the day-to-day operations of an animal shelter through age-appropriate activities. Teens work alongside AWLA staff to support animal care, enrichment, and shelter operations—building responsibility, empathy, and practical skills while making a difference for animals in need. What Teens Do in Shelter SquadParticipants in Shelter Squad gain hands-on experience in real volunteer roles, including: Providing enrichment activities for dogs, cats, and small animalsPreparing supplies and organizing animal care areasAssisting with cleaning kennels and animal spacesSupporting shelter staff with daily tasks that directly benefit animalsAll activities are fully supervised by AWLA staff, ensuring a safe, educational, and positive experience for every participant. Who Can JoinAges: 13–15Experience Level: No prior volunteer experience requiredGroup Size: 4 participants per sessionThis program is ideal for teens who love animals, are curious about animal care or shelter work, or want meaningful community service experience. Program Fee$50 for the first session (includes an official Shelter Squad T-shirt)$30 for each additional sessionYour initial registration includes a Shelter Squad T-shirt that teens will wear during the program. Subsequent sessions are offered at a reduced rate. Register Here Contact UsFor questions about Shelter Squad or another youth program, please contact: Madi RadfordYouth Programs [email protected]

B.Y.O.B Mutt Mixer

B.Y.O.B Mutt MixerIs traditional happy hour getting boring? Join us in the dog yards at AWLA for a B.Y.O.B. Mutt Mixer instead! At our monthly B.Y.O.B. Mutt Mixer, you can meet fellow animal lovers, learn about our foster program, and hang out with foster-ready dogs! As......More

B.Y.O.B Mutt MixerIs traditional happy hour getting boring? Join us in the dog yards at AWLA for a B.Y.O.B. Mutt Mixer instead! At our monthly B.Y.O.B. Mutt Mixer, you can meet fellow animal lovers, learn about our foster program, and hang out with foster-ready dogs! As the sun sets, we promise to bring you cozy, backyard vibes with pizza and drinks, the opportunity to mingle, and AWLA dogs. Whether you’re a current foster, interested in learning more, or simply want to connect with your community, we’d love to have you hang out with us during this happy hour style event. RSVP for our next B.Y.O.B Mutt Mixer! Click here to RSVP Important InfoAWLA’s Mutt Mixer is FREE to attendOpen to anyone 21 or older including your partner, family, friends, roommates, and neighborsSigning up to foster is not required to attend, but an RSVP is requiredPlease keep current pets and children at homeOnly beers and hard seltzers permitted, but please make appropriate arrangements to get home safely and drink responsiblyFor questions and inquiries regarding Mutt Mixer, get in touch with us at [email protected] Fostering at AWLAFostering greatly expands AWLA’s ability to care for animals in need. By fostering, you’re giving pets a warm, loving environment to heal, grow, and flourish and freeing up space at the shelter for even more animals. Fostering at AWLA is completely FREE. We provide the materials, cover the vet care, and you provide the love. AWLA’s Foster Program Signing up to foster is not a requirement to attend this event. If you’d like to signup beforehand, or during the event, we welcome you to do so! You’ll have the chance to chat with our Foster Team and if you’re ready, you can take home a dog straight after the Mutt Mixer.

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Animal Allies Club

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities li......More

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities like service projects, guest speakers, crafts, and games, participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how the shelter operates. They’ll explore a wide range of animal-related topics, including: Wildlife rescueAnimal controlAdoptions and fosteringVeterinary careEnrichment and behaviorAnd more!Throughout the program, kids will build empathy, confidence, and practical skills that empower them to care for animals and support the people connected to them. Program ScheduleAnimal Allies is a five-week program held on Mondays from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at AWLA. Registration for the next Animal Allies session opens Thursday, August 20 at 12:00 p.m.! Fill out the interest form now to receive a notification when registration opens.(opens in new tab) Program FeeThe Animal Allies membership fee is $155 per child. Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program. To learn more, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Madi Radford, at [email protected]. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Animal Allies Club

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities li......More

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities like service projects, guest speakers, crafts, and games, participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how the shelter operates. They’ll explore a wide range of animal-related topics, including: Wildlife rescueAnimal controlAdoptions and fosteringVeterinary careEnrichment and behaviorAnd more!Throughout the program, kids will build empathy, confidence, and practical skills that empower them to care for animals and support the people connected to them. Program ScheduleAnimal Allies is a five-week program held on Mondays from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at AWLA. Registration for the next Animal Allies session opens Thursday, August 20 at 12:00 p.m.! Fill out the interest form now to receive a notification when registration opens.(opens in new tab) Program FeeThe Animal Allies membership fee is $155 per child. Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program. To learn more, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Madi Radford, at [email protected]. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Happy Howl-O-Ween with Kids C.A.R.E. Club

Celebrate Halloween the animal-friendly way! In this festive Kids C.A.R.E. Club session, children will make spooky-fun crafts, learn how to keep pets safe during Halloween, and discover how shelters care for animals during busy holiday seasons. From costume safety to tr......More

Celebrate Halloween the animal-friendly way! In this festive Kids C.A.R.E. Club session, children will make spooky-fun crafts, learn how to keep pets safe during Halloween, and discover how shelters care for animals during busy holiday seasons. From costume safety to trick-or-treat tips, kids will gain knowledge they can use at home while enjoying a fun seasonal activity. This class blends creativity, safety education, and compassion for animals in a holiday-themed experience. Ages 4-10 Register for This Session Kids C.A.R.E. Club Membership – 2026 Interested in attending more than one session? Make it official with a Kids C.A.R.E. Club Membership! Your child will enjoy exclusive perks while helping support AWLA’s youth education programs. Each membership includes: Access to our exclusive Member Party (September 2026)AWLA Youth Programs T-ShirtAWLA BackpackStuffed pet (kitten or puppy)Kids C.A.R.E. Membership PinStickers, activities, and more!Memberships are available through our online store. Each membership is a $50 donation that directly supports AWLA’s humane education programs. Kids C.A.R.E. Club Membership

Low-Cost Vaccine & Microchip Clinic

Get your pets their vaccines or a microchip at AWLA!  AWLA offers rabies vaccines, distemper vaccines (DAPPv for dogs and HCPCh for cats), and microchips for cats and dogs. These clinics are by reservation only. You must register in advance for a designated time. Regist......More

Get your pets their vaccines or a microchip at AWLA!  AWLA offers rabies vaccines, distemper vaccines (DAPPv for dogs and HCPCh for cats), and microchips for cats and dogs. These clinics are by reservation only. You must register in advance for a designated time. Registration for this clinic will open the Friday in the week prior. Registration for this clinic opens on Friday, October 9. Click Here To Register Rabies shots are $20, distemper shots are free, and microchips are $35. Exact cash or card payment only.All dogs must be on a leash, and all cats in carriers. Retractable leashes are not allowed.If your pet is reactive to humans or other animals, please do not sign up for this clinic. We ask that you seek advice from a veterinarian.The clinic is indoors in the AWLA Education Room. Waiting is outside, so please dress appropriately for the weather.If you want a three-year rabies shot, you must bring proof of prior rabies shot (vet records or rabies certificates only, or dog licenses only, tags do not count).Distemper shots are based on the age, and vaccine history of each pet. If you do not bring proof your pet has received this vaccine before and is not past due, they will need a booster in 2-4 weeks.All paperwork for this clinic will be done at the clinic. More Info About Vaccines & MicrochipsRabies Vaccines Rabies is a fatal disease that affects both pets and people, but it is entirely preventable with vaccination. Virginia law requires that all dogs and cats four months of age and older have a current rabies vaccine. Distemper Vaccines The DHPP vaccine – Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus – is commonly referred to as the distemper vaccine. It is a combo vaccine that protects against all four of the diseases in its name. Microchips A microchip is a small device, about the size of a grain of rice, that provides permanent identification for your pet. It is implanted under the skin and contains a unique ID number that can be scanned by a vet or shelter. This number is linked to your contact information, helping reunite you with your pet if they ever get lost.

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Animal Allies Club

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities li......More

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities like service projects, guest speakers, crafts, and games, participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how the shelter operates. They’ll explore a wide range of animal-related topics, including: Wildlife rescueAnimal controlAdoptions and fosteringVeterinary careEnrichment and behaviorAnd more!Throughout the program, kids will build empathy, confidence, and practical skills that empower them to care for animals and support the people connected to them. Program ScheduleAnimal Allies is a five-week program held on Mondays from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at AWLA. Registration for the next Animal Allies session opens Thursday, August 20 at 12:00 p.m.! Fill out the interest form now to receive a notification when registration opens.(opens in new tab) Program FeeThe Animal Allies membership fee is $155 per child. Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program. To learn more, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Madi Radford, at [email protected]. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Animal Allies Club

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities li......More

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities like service projects, guest speakers, crafts, and games, participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how the shelter operates. They’ll explore a wide range of animal-related topics, including: Wildlife rescueAnimal controlAdoptions and fosteringVeterinary careEnrichment and behaviorAnd more!Throughout the program, kids will build empathy, confidence, and practical skills that empower them to care for animals and support the people connected to them. Program ScheduleAnimal Allies is a five-week program held on Mondays from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at AWLA. Registration for the next Animal Allies session opens Thursday, August 20 at 12:00 p.m.! Fill out the interest form now to receive a notification when registration opens.(opens in new tab) Program FeeThe Animal Allies membership fee is $155 per child. Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program. To learn more, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Madi Radford, at [email protected]. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Day-Off Camp

Fall Camps @ AWLALooking for a fun activity for your animal lover on a day off from school? Join us for a 1-day camp this fall! AWLA’s fall 1-day camps are designed for children ages 9-13. With hands-on activities, engaging lessons, animal interactions, and more, your c......More

Fall Camps @ AWLALooking for a fun activity for your animal lover on a day off from school? Join us for a 1-day camp this fall! AWLA’s fall 1-day camps are designed for children ages 9-13. With hands-on activities, engaging lessons, animal interactions, and more, your camper will spend a paw-some day learning about all AWLA has to offer. Camp Details & ScheduleAWLA’s 1-day camps run from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.The registration fee for each camp is $160.Registrants will receive 10% off for signing up for two or more camps.Camp dates: Tuesday, November 3rd, and Wednesday, November 11thRegistration for AWLA’s fall 2026 1-day camps will open on Tuesday, October 5th at 12:00 p.m. EST. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States

Fall Animal Allies Club

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities li......More

Become an Animal Ally with AWLA!The Animal Allies Club is a unique educational opportunity for kids ages 10–13 to learn how the Animal Welfare League of Arlington (AWLA) makes a difference for animals in our community—and how they can too. Through hands-on activities like service projects, guest speakers, crafts, and games, participants get a behind-the-scenes look at how the shelter operates. They’ll explore a wide range of animal-related topics, including: Wildlife rescueAnimal controlAdoptions and fosteringVeterinary careEnrichment and behaviorAnd more!Throughout the program, kids will build empathy, confidence, and practical skills that empower them to care for animals and support the people connected to them. Program ScheduleAnimal Allies is a five-week program held on Mondays from 5:30–7:00 p.m. at AWLA. Registration for the next Animal Allies session opens Thursday, August 20 at 12:00 p.m.! Fill out the interest form now to receive a notification when registration opens.(opens in new tab) Program FeeThe Animal Allies membership fee is $155 per child. Financial assistance is available through our scholarship program. To learn more, please contact our Youth Programs Coordinator, Madi Radford, at [email protected]. Register Here

Animal Welfare League of Arlington, 2650 S Arlington Mill Dr, Arlington, VA, 22206, United States