Orange County Animal Services – Orlando’s largest animal shelter.

Orange County Animal Services is Orlando’s largest animal shelter, caring for roughly 300 homeless pets each day. The organization not only facilitates life‑saving adoptions but also partners with rescue groups, runs low‑cost spay and neuter clinics, and offers community education to keep people and pets healthy and together. One of its most child‑friendly programs is Book Buddies, where children of all ages—under adult supervision—sit on a blanket outside the kennels and read aloud to dogs and cats. The calm, non‑contact interaction helps children build confidence, nurtures empathy, and encourages the animals to relax and become more adoptable. Volunteers can also help with everyday shelter tasks, from cleaning kennels to preparing enrichment toys, ensuring the facility runs smoothly. Whether through the Book Buddies program or other volunteer opportunities, Orange County Animal Services invites families to share in the joy of caring for animals and to help create a safer, happier community for pets and their future owners.