There are so many pleasures to be discovered when you volunteer to help others, especially animals. I enjoyed many years volunteering as a Big Sister to a young gal Kristie (still friends today), and through church and the County ombudsman program assisting seniors. But I must admit my greatest joy as a volunteer comes in working with animal rescues, particularly senior dogs. Have you felt the happiness that comes from volunteering to help another living being? I like that old saying “To the world you are just one person but to one person (or one animal) you may be the world.” Dr. Seuss.
In those times when I was without a four-legged friend (which I always try to keep at a minimum), and even when I did have a dog at home, I sought out canine friends to complete my world. Dogs like Boltan (pictured above) became my special friend whom I loved to visit, take hiking, and share car drives. We enjoyed an overnight trip to a local hotel, to a Western community reenactment, a walk on the beach on a sunny day, etc. He was always happy to go on any adventure with me, a chance to get away from kennel restrictions and many other dogs, and just be a pet dog, even for a short time.
For years I enjoyed volunteering with San Diego Humane Society and some other smaller dog shelters. Since moving to Prescott, some of my happiest moments (other than times with Shayla) have been spent volunteering with the senior dogs at DogTree Pines Senior Dog Sanctuary, operated by the wonderful owner Cindy Lamont. I love all the dogs there but some of my favorite friends there include the big, beautiful, sweet Great Pyrenees Tucker and funny ball-obsessed little Navi (and rest in peace sweet white husky Frosty).. Several acres of forest sanctuary with some of the greatest dogs ever. Watch for my upcoming third book, based in part on the peace of that special place and canines.
Fun Reasons to Volunteer with Dogs:
Do your research – you have an opportunity to spend time with a dog if you don’t have one at home, or even a new breed of dog, and experience what they are like before committing to a dog of your own.
Learning is fun – as you work with each dog you learn their behavior, likes and dislikes, and develop new skills to train the dogs to become more adoptable.
Become selfless – I think it’s almost impossible to spend time with a dog and remain self-absorbed, sad, or lonely (esp. with a dog licking your hands or face and looking at you with a “thank you for taking me out” smile). Join a pack walk adventure with others and make new friends – both canine and human. (Two great local volunteer groups for dog walks that I like: United Animal Friends and Dog Tree Pines in Prescott.)
Increase your physical activity, time outdoors in the warm sunshine, get healthy.
Make a positive difference for someone else, one happy dog at a time.
Get involved! You will enjoy it! And let me know how much fun you had with your new friend.
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