Started as a volunteer dog walker at a shelter
 

Today I started as a volunteer dog walker at a big no kill shelter about 20 minutes away called Save A Pet. It was so sad, I have been volunteering at a rescue on Sundays at the adoptathon's but at least most of those dogs go back to a foster home after the adoptathon is over. The first 30 minutes, I didn't know if I could do this as you could hear all the dogs barking and they are in cages. But then we were given a dog to walk and they have an enormous property with runs for us to walk the dogs to and let them play. I walked a beagle mix and even though it was pouring rain and ankle deep in mud he was so happy to get out. Then when I let him in the run he just wanted to be by me and get petted. So I a going to keep going and work with the small dogs. There was a yorkie mix in there that I am going to check out this week to see if he is available yet and will post when I know more. I know he is a male and he has a short curly coat and looks to be 15-20 lbs. I hope I can walk him and try and find him a home. It is so sad to see these babies like this.

What a great thing to do Patti! Did you just call there and ask if you could do this or is it something this shelter looks for and you just applied?

Thats a wonderful thing you are doing...that little walk with you must be the highlight of their day.

You are so sweet helping these dogs get some fresh air and an outing.

this is something I would love to do too! how did you get involved?

I'm so glad that it went well! I know you were worried and I'm so proud that you not only decided to do this but you also kept going even though I'm sure it was difficult!

It sounds like that beagle had the best day of his last few days/weeks! That's so amazing!

:hug: Vicky & Zoë

Patti, you are going to want to take them all home with you...What a rewarding job....

Thank you for being such a nice person, and giving those dogs something to look forward to.

Thanks everyone. I feel it is the least I can do as all of my girls have been from breeders and I wanted to be able to do something to help. I have always donated financially to them but I met the shelter manager and volunteer manager at the Animal Emergency a few weeks ago when Cali had the HGE. They were there with a sick dog and we got to talking in the waiting room and they had tags on identifying them from Save A pet. They said they would love to have me volunteer as they are always in need of them. I finally decided yesteday to go and sign up and they did my orientation right then so I wouldn't have to go to a class and I had my training today.
This is the shelter that I donated 2 special beds to when all the wonderful people on YT collected money for e when my Mom passed away. It was so nice to see the big dogs laying on these beds off of the cold floor. So YT helped too!!!
Chandracz- The shelter is in Grayslake on Rte 60/Fairfield Rd. They are always in need of volunteers and they like you to do at least 8 hours a month. They have so many different areas to help out in. I also signed up to do vet runs and eventually become an adoption counselor. I also a going to helo with the gardening this spring. PM me if you want more info.

Patti, you are an angel sent from God!!!!:angel:

Kudos to you Patti! What a great way to volunteer your time! I'm sure you made a pal with that little beagle mix. I am sure he had a great day, mud and all! It must be so rewarding for you and I know it will be for the dogs you touch. Thank you!

Good for you Patti:thumbup:

I know at times it will be tough but if you can help just one more dog than you have done something wonderful.

What a great thing to do :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

Im sure it helps them so much. I cant imagine how crazy they must start to feel being in a kennel all day long.