Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Linda
By Kara McIntyre, Digital Marketing Coordinator
Linda first connected with Houston Humane Society when she adopted a dog 14 years ago. She found herself back here about six years ago with a group of high school students in tow. As a vocational special education teacher, she helped the teens get hands-on experience at local organizations, including Houston Humane Society.
She says it was a positive experience for all of them. “It was very sweet, and they learned to appreciate pets more as well as learning different job skills and responsibility.”
After Linda retired a few years ago, she returned to Houston Humane Society, this time as a volunteer herself.
“It's been really good for my health. You know, it's like you can do a good deed and help your health by coming out here and working with the dogs, and walking the dogs.”
When Linda volunteers, she tries to give each dog a 10- to 15-minute walk. Once all the dogs have been out, she'll take the potty-trained dogs out for a second walk.
She especially enjoys taking the dogs to the play yard, where they can explore, play fetch, and get some fresh air and attention. “I think it helps their emotional health, too, if you talk to them and pet them. Some of them like being petted more than they like playing.”
For people who love dogs but aren't able to adopt, Linda says volunteering is another way to spend time with them while making a difference. “It’s a great place to come for that, too. It’s perfect.”
The dogs aren't the only reason she enjoys coming back. She also appreciates the community she's found among other volunteers. “They’re wonderful people.”
Linda also points out that dog walking is just one of the ways volunteers can help. “There’s always other things here that you can volunteer to do, like socializing with the cats. They have all kinds of different things you can do.”
Whatever you're interested in, she says the volunteer team is there to help you get started. “All the volunteer coordinators out here are very nice, and very helpful.”
Apply now to become a volunteer.
