Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Cheryl & PJ

Cheryl's connection to Houston Humane Society started at a dog wash in 1991. More than three decades later, animals are still a family affair. 

 

When her youngest child turned 11, Cheryl's family was able to devote more time to volunteering. He went on to receive a bachelor's degree in animal science from Texas A&M, while her oldest child became a dog trainer.

This October marks 20 years of Cheryl regularly volunteering with Houston Humane Society. You can usually find her walking dogs on weekends, but she's also helped at events like our annual K9 Fun Run & Walk and lent a hand in our veterinary clinic.

 

She says, "Houston Humane Society is my Disney World! It's the happiest place on earth for me."

Rookie volunteer PJ also found his happy place walking adoptable dogs at Houston Humane Society.

He started volunteering in early 2026 and loves being hands-on with the animals, giving them exercise, attention, and love.

For PJ, those everyday interactions matter, "providing the animals with a little bit of hope, happiness and love each day while they wait for their forever home. Having a little bit of interaction with a human each day goes a long way, I believe.”

 

Seeing volunteers show up “day-in and day-out, rain or shine” inspires him to keep coming back.

And while PJ gives his time to the dogs, that time offers something in return, too.

"I am able to focus on just being present with the dogs and forget about whatever else is going on in my life at the time." Cheryl shared a similar sentiment, saying, "I come to Houston Humane Society and find my peace."

If you're thinking about volunteering, Cheryl encourages you to try it out. "Love is easy to give!"

PJ agrees: "You get much more back compared to what you give."

 

Apply now to become a volunteer.