1. Is OAS a city-funded agency?
Yes, Oakland Animal Services receives funding from the city of Oakland. However, OAS is one of the lowest funded standalone animal shelters in the Bay Area. OAS shares city funding with dozens of municipal agencies, and in today’s economic climate, many agencies are left underfunded.
The Friends of Oakland Animal Services (FOAS) was formed in 2005 by shelter volunteers as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. All donations to FOAS support OAS beyond the typical expectations of a municipal, open admission shelter.
2. What is the difference in services between OAS and East Bay SPCA?
OAS is not the East Bay SPCA. The EBSPCA is one of our primary transfer partners, and they take in and adopt out many of the animals rescued by OAS. OAS is Oakland’s city-run agency and has an open door policy, making us very different than private shelters like the EBSPCA.
3. But why is OAS so different from private shelters?
OAS is the City of Oakland’s open admissions shelter. OAS faces many front line challenges that other agencies don’t.
OAS takes every animal that comes through our doors, not just dogs and cats. That means every kind of animal, wild or domesticated, including farm animals and small companion pets like rabbits and guinea pigs. We do not choose animals by breed, health, or temperament. Despite that, we work tirelessly to make sure animals in our care get love, attention, and every opportunity for care and placement.
A volunteer with a cow that was found under an Oakland overpass in 2015. The cow and goats that accompanied her resided at OAS until they went to a farm sanctuary.
4. Does OAS take wildlife?
OAS serves local wildlife that are rescued and in need of care. OAS provides wildlife education programs to Bay Area residents. We work to encourage peaceful co-existence between people and all animals.
5. How does OAS work in collaboration with Animal Control Officers?
OAS Animal Control Officers are responsible for enforcing laws relating to animals, including cases of animal cruelty and neglect. Our officers provide front line rescue services to local animals in distress.
6. Where does your tax-exempt charitable donation go in providing services to Oakland’s animals?
First of all, thank you for considering Friends of Oakland Animal Services as the home for your charitable gift.
Please know that your money, in-kind donations, and volunteer time go a long way in helping us improve the well-being of animals that come to OAS and in placing animals in loving homes.
You can learn more about FOAS here: https://friendsofoas.org/
7. How can I donate to FOAS?
We have many ways to give, including stock donations, planned giving, and retirement distributions. You can make a one-time or monthly donation online here:
If you prefer to send a check, please mail to:
P.O. Box 3132, Oakland, CA 94609. You can also drop off a check or in-kind donations at the shelter on 1101 29th Ave, Oakland, CA 94601.
6. How can I get involved if I am unable to make a financial contribution at this time?
We understand! Regardless of your financial situation, you can still be a part of our community We’re always looking for dedicated volunteers to spend time with our animals, organize fundraisers, provide community outreach, and advocate for OAS in the community.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Oakland Animal Services and FOAS. We appreciate your support!
