Every Friday night, from 6-9 pm, I work with a group of altruistic people who generously devote their time and energy to care for rescued animals. In my time with Community Animal Rescue Effort (CARE), I’ve developed strong connections with the dogs and cultivated bonds with my fellow volunteers. Volunteering with this organization has become one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
When I first applied for a position at the adoption center I was struck by the variety of volunteering opportunities available. Some roles involved animal care directly, while others did not. Every position plays a crucial role in providing the care, support, and attention that each animal needs to thrive for the remainder of their life. From the beginning, I knew that my place here would be working directly with dogs- a role I had felt passionate about for a long time.
The routine is nearly the same every shift, with few exceptions for scenarios such as welcoming new dogs or receiving important announcements from Kennel Captains. Each shift begins with Kennel Captains assigning each volunteer a dog to care for. With this approach, we experience versatility with our furry friends leading us to develop ties and experiences with multiple rescues.
“Overall it’s been really fun volunteering here the dogs are so cute,” Ellie Harlan said “I’m learning a lot about time management and how to be responsible for other beings and it’s just really relaxing to get to go for walks with the dogs.”
We take our assigned dogs on three walks during the evening. The first walk is brief, giving them a chance to stretch their legs and do their business. After returning from the first walk, we put them into crates for a short period, allowing us enough time to freshen and tidy their kennels. This time also calls for completing other simple chores such as sanitizing toys, refilling water bowls, or washing kennel beds. Cleaning may not be the most exciting part of the evening, however it is one of the most crucial. If not us, who will? Every animal deserves a clean environment to live in.
At this point, the kennel captain would have every dog’s food bowl filled with nutritious dog chow. After meal time, it is our responsibility to take them on their second walk. The location where the shelter resides is great for taking walks. There’s a public trail to walk through, a park, and overall safe neighborhoods.
Fear not, there is plenty of playtime to be had. Between the second and third walks, we provide enrichment activities to keep the dogs out of their kennels for as long as possible, giving them a chance to let loose and be happy. The shelter contains three real-life rooms, two outdoor runs, a community couch, and a community center. We have bones, kongs, stuffed animals, and tennis balls for the dogs to play with in all those areas. My personal favorite is the outdoor runs, despite the frigid temperatures, I love to see the dogs off-leash and running around in a safe yet large area.
The third walk is the final walk of the night. I feel sad to put my dogs back in their crate after spending all that wonderful time together, all I want to do is take them home with me. It’s the hardest part of the entire shift. However, I give myself a piece of mind knowing that an amazing volunteer will return to them in the morning.
“The people who volunteer here are super supportive and kind especially our volunteers who help train the new volunteers,” Harlan said.
As I stated before, volunteering at CARE shelter has been the most rewarding experience of my life, and it might be for you as well. Consider applying for a volunteer position at CARE to help save lives, one paw at a time. There truly is a position for everyone, and your compassion can make an incredible impact. Visit this link to explore the many opportunities the shelter offers and needs. It’s fulfilling to know you’ve made a difference in the lives of animals who need our help.
