Stray Thoughts Spring 2016
Volunteer Spotlight
A
chance to cuddle with some lovey dogs is the main
attraction for the volunteers on the Thursday 11-2
Kennel showing shift.
Like Gwyn, Chris is an avid gardener, and so is Debbie
Waggoner, also on the shift. Debbie started volunteering
in October 2013, and quickly picked up how to deal
with different types of dogs and interpret dog behavior.
She has a 12-year-old Papillion/Bichon mix at home.
She most likes “socializing with other volunteers and
cuddling all the dogs,” and helps out with humane
education programs during her volunteer time.
Ten-year volunteer veteran Gwyn Jones, who also helps
out at the plant sale and with gardening on the shelter
property, said since she started volunteering at the
shelter she’s learned a lot, including that “I don’t melt in
the rain.” Gwyn calls herself a failure as a foster mom,
having adopted a terrier named Freddy and a Chihuahua
named Carmina who were originally supposed to be
temporary house guests.
She says her shift, which has been together for more
than 2 years, works very well. “We recognize each
person’s strengths and willingness to do whatever is
necessary and best for the dogs,” said Joan Ranger,
who joined the shift in April 2014. “We assist each other
whenever help is needed, and share the tasks assigned to
our shift.” Joan also fosters dogs and volunteered at an
offsite event to help spread the word about how “WSHS
is devoted to the care of their animals and dedicated to
finding them the best adoptive homes possible.”
Chris Dedowicz began volunteering a month after Joan,
and loves spending time with the shelter dogs, though
her only pet at home is of the feathered variety…so far.
“I have a peach-faced lovebird named Cubbie – yes, I’m
a die-hard Cubs fan!” Chris said. “She’s 6 years old and
loves to cuddle. I’m waiting for that special canine to
come to WSHS for me to adopt.”
After so many months together, Debbie said the shift is a
well-oiled machine. “Everyone knows what needs to be
done,” she said. Chris agreed. “We all know what needs
to be done on the shift and we get it done,” she said.
“Help is never far away.”
Vehicle Donation Program
In addition to receiving a tax deduction, you
will know that your donation was used to
save the lives of homeless dogs & cats.
Call: (877) CARS-4-US (227-7487)
Visit: www.donationline.com
Or: www.WSHS-DG.org
10