Volunteer Spotlight: Meet Ron & Rebecca
For some of our volunteers, their love for animals goes beyond cats and dogs. Both veteran volunteer Ron and rookie volunteer Rebecca can be found working with animals at Houston Humane Society and the Houston Zoo.
Ron has been coming to Houston Humane Society with his wife Carla for more than three years. They work as a team to make sure the adoptable dogs have good quality photos to show their personalities. “A good photo can help enhance a dog’s chances of getting adopted, and it makes me happy when I see them used in various media efforts.” Photo sessions with the pups double as playtime. Ron makes sure they're in a "good, happy mood" during their time together.
For Ron, one of the biggest ways volunteers make a difference is by giving the dogs time outside their kennels to walk, explore, sniff, and just have some fun. That time also gives them important exercise and socialization, and Ron says one of the best parts is seeing a dog he’s spent time with finally get adopted.
At the Houston Zoo, Ron's volunteering focuses on guest interaction, something he continues at Houston Humane Society. When he sees a potential adopter working their way through the dog kennels, he's always happy to help make a connection. He says, "We'll spend a lot of time with people who want to meet a dog."
Rebecca started volunteering at Houston Humane Society after transitioning to a new job as a licensed vet tech at the Houston Zoo. She missed getting time with cats and dogs, so now she volunteers with our adoptable cats and also as a dog walker. “Something as simple as going for a walk can make all the difference in the world for a dog!”
Her favorite thing to do is help socialize the cats and kittens. Rebecca says, "There is nothing better in this world than snuggling a cat after a day at work!"
“Even though sitting and playing with kittens is one of the best things in the world, I try to sit and socialize with the adult cats who might be a bit more shy. They tend to be overlooked in shelter environments, but by sitting with them and hopefully making them feel more confident and comfortable, people will see how special the cat is and they can be adopted.”
Rebecca's heart is in working with animals. "My mission in life is to help as many animals as possible. I keep coming back for the animals. There are so many animals that need help and care, and if I can make even a small difference just by volunteering, then that is something I will do as much as I can!"
Ron says he keeps coming back to volunteer at Houston Humane Society for the animals, too. Talking about the dogs, he says, “They're always so happy to get a chance to get outside. We make some very nice animal friends. We always come home feeling good!”
If you've thought about volunteering, Rebecca says, "just go for it!" She and Ron agree that there are so many ways to help at Houston Humane Society that there's something for everyone.
Apply now to become a volunteer.
