Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Brenda and Gene

Houston Humane Society dog walkers Brenda and Gene started volunteering at different times and for different reasons, but they’ve both found something meaningful in their mornings with our shelter dogs. 

Brenda began volunteering in 2022 after planning for years to get involved once she retired. A few mornings each week, she starts with the dogs she knows are waiting for a restroom break before going wherever her help is needed.

 

As she gets to know them, Brenda “lets them know that they are safe, not alone, and not forgotten.”

She also adopted Molly, a dog who was struggling in the shelter.

"She was a very frightened, under socialized dog that was having difficulty in the shelter. With the help of our two other dogs, she has started to blossom and find her voice and personality."

Like many of the volunteers, Brenda says walking dogs at Houston Humane Society is her "me time".

Gene is newer to Houston Humane Society. He was inspired to volunteer after losing his 14-year-old border collie, Astro, last year.

"He was a huge part of my retired life. I missed the daily walks. "

 

Now, Gene arrives in the morning and takes out whichever dog he sees first who hasn’t been walked. He gives them time to explore the fenced-in areas and, when there are enough walkers available, stays a little longer to offer pets and belly rubs.

Gene can tell the dogs look forward to having a walk and spending time with the volunteers. "They just so want to be a companion, and their gratitude is immediate as they are escorted out the kennel."

Brenda encourages people to try volunteering. "A little bit of time can make a huge difference in an animal's life."

 

Apply now to become a volunteer.