We get asked a lot-what type of volunteering would help? Truthfully-any and all of it! There is always the physical/labor intensive and often hot and stinky work-feeding and watering the dogs and cleaning the kennels. BUT, if that is not your cup of tea, the dogs would love to have visitors. Wear clothes that can get dirty and bring a spare leash or collar (there are some available to use at the shelter, but doesnt hurt if you come prepared), and pick out a dog to bring out to a quieter part of the shelter and spend time with- petting, brushing, and if they are shy, even just sitting and talking to them. The more one-on-one time they have, the more the more timid dogs come out of their shell and are more likely to appeal to a potential family or adopter. There are a ton of things that may use a persons individual traits or experience- fancy yourself an amateur photographer? Come out and take some great photos of the dogs that can be posted online and on different adoption sites like petfinder and rescueme. More of a DIY craft person- you could make quilts for the winter or for the occasional momma dog and her wee pups, “adopt me!” scarves, or holiday/seasonal print scarves that could be sent home with each adopted dog. Known for your goody bags from parties? Perhaps you could think of an affordable but helpful “Adoption Goodies” to be given along with each adopted dog. Someone with obedience training experience- come and teach a dog or two some helpful skills. A welder with some fencing lying around gathering dust-Could you make a functional kennel to donate? Farm-experience- help come up with a feasible plan to compost the dogs waste. Like baking-whip up some homemade dog treats to come feed the pups. Plumbing, wiring, carpentry, mechanic experience? Your expertise would be invaluable in some of the shelter’s obstacles that arise now and again. Are you a good public speaker? Work with us talking to kids and organizations about the importance of spay and neuter. Have some fundraising experience from kids sports team, PTAs, or previous non-profit work-kick start a fundraiser partnering with the shelter. Endless patience and a calm demeanor- just sitting with the dogs that have come from abuse/neglect situations so that they can build up their trust in humans again. Truly there are countless ways to help out this fantastic shelter. We truly are a shelter carried by our supporters, community, and friends. On some days when we have less help to do the daily care of all of our dogs we may not be able to spend a lot of time with volunteers on their preferred projects or help, but it is definitely appreciated, by us, and will surely be apparent in the wagging tails and smiling faces of all of the Second Chance four (or occasionally three) legged temporary residents.
Posted on: Thu, 14 Aug 2014 03:10:08 +0000
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