Why I Became a Volunteer
I had been yearning to volunteer for years but felt I was not emotionally equipped to work with the local SPCA where animals had to die when there was no more room. When I found references to a local no kill shelter in two newspapers within two days of each other and discovered that this amazing Compassion In Action Center is located in my own neighborhood , how could I NOT submit a volunteer application ? I was totally "hooked" before my first volunteer shift was over ! Being a part of the Friends For Life Animal Sanctuary has changed my life and given me a new and better direction !
How I volunteer
I mainly fill one or two cleaning shifts each week - cages, litter pans, floors, dishes and the never-ending laundry. I tend to stay over to have some time to groom and play with the cats and kittens. Having geriatric cats of my own I gravitate towards the older ones, but have found myself fostering kittens, kittens and more kittens ! I try to participate in all of our "off location" events. I consider myself shy but have discovered that I can speak at length to strangers about pets , spay/neuter , proper feeding and care , No Kill , and of course Friends For Life.
Advice
- Don't hesitate ! There are so very many shelters and rescue groups that desperately need volunteers.
- Giving even just a few hours a week can be a great help. There is no need to feel guilty if your time is limited !
- Speak with the staff about the organization's philosophy. Make sure you are "on the same wave length".
- Be aware that you may want to "take them all home ". Remember that the time and effort you give to the whole group is more valuable than caring for a few on your own.
What is the name, location, and URL of the group?
Friends For Life Animal Shelter and Sanctuary
246 West 19th Street
Houston, Texas 77008
www.nokill1.org or www.adoptfriends4life.org
What is your favorite part of volunteering?
Knowing that I am helping to save far many more lives than I could ever do on my own ! And although I have been owned by cats for almost 30 years I learn something new every time I visit the shelter.
What makes you saddest about volunteering?
No Kill shelters must out of necessity limit admissions which means that we sometimes have to turn away cats or dogs that need help.
We feel that Every Animal Matters so this aspect is particularly difficult. It's heart-wrenching to be reminded how many animals are mistreated.
Share any other details of your volunteer work
I am learning animal handling procedures ( cats, dogs, ferrets ) , the many types of diseases and medications, and shelter sanitation ( an area that gives a new perspective to housecleaning !)
