When did you start volunteering at PAWS?
I started volunteering in 2001 on the dog side. After our 2 dogs passed away, my husband and I came to paws looking for another one. We thought it was such a great organization that I started volunteering.
What jobs/roles have you performed at PAWS?
I started on the dog side showing dogs on Sundays at the old center. Then I decided I would like to try the cat side starting on a shift of cleaning one evening a week. Liz asked me if I would like to be recording secretary for the Board and I did that for about 10 years. At the new center I've been a shift leader, adoption concealer, I headed the cat follow-up committee, and I'm a member of the cat team. I also keep the DNA list up to date and feed the birds with Suzanne.
Why do you volunteer at PAWS?
I have such a love of animals - all animals. I love helping the cats get great homes and giving them attention to help socialize them and help them adjust at PAWS. It is so gratifying seeing photos of them in their new homes and seeing how they are being spoiled by their new family. I would spend more time here if I didn't live 48 miles (one way) away.
When you're not at PAWS, what do you like to do with your time?
Process cat applications, I also volunteer with the Women's Auxiliary of the Huntingdon Salvation Army. But what I love the most is spending time with our 3 dogs and 1 cat along with my husband.
What do you like best about being a PAWS volunteer? What do you find to be the most rewarding?
I love spending time with the cats. I find it so rewarding to see them in their forever homes.
If someone asked you why they should volunteer at PAWS, what answer would you give?
I always ask our adopters if they would like to volunteer and how gratifying it is to be with the cats. I've had many follow through with volunteering too. Maybe they see how happy I am there??? Nothing makes me more happy than helping the shy cats come out of their shells and sit beside me or on my lap. What an accomplishment - a job well done.