Volunteer Testimonials

Emily L., Customer Care Team

Why does WPCAS matter?

• WPCAS makes an unbelievably huge impact on the community. Not only are programs, like the Barn Cat Program, and TNR program, offered to the public but so are Target Spay/Neuters, and field RTO's. They also have very dedicated, hard working Animal Control Officers that spend countless hours helping loose dogs find safety off of the roads, and away from wild animals. 

Why is WPCAS important to YOU?

• I started volunteering at WPCAS when I was barely 17, and trying to find "my place" in this world. I was about to graduate high school, and had no idea what career field I was going to go into, whether I was going to go to college or not, or any idea of what I was generally doing with my life. WPCAS gave me a hobby, a family, and a passion. I found the joy of helping animals in need, while also helping the public in need.

What impact does your volunteer role have on the community and those you help?

• I primarily work in the office, helping the public, answering phone calls, and trying to match up lost and found dogs with their owners. While being in the office, I have learned and studied the animal laws that are in place in Parker County, learned about how to help the public, and how to spread awareness and educate the public on being a responsible pet owner. I find myself frequently educating the community about the local animal laws, and explaining why things are done the way they are. I help spread awareness of microchipping, what to do if you lose your dog, or find one on the street as well. 

How do you feel about your experience at WPCAS?

• My experience has been nothing but rewarding. 

What do you like most about volunteering at WPCAS?

• The satisfaction of saving lives, and reuniting animals with their owners, as well as the family you get with becoming a volunteer. When I first started volunteering, I did not expect to be welcomed into the best, supportive, loving family that is the staff and volunteers. 

What does it feel like to be a part of the Customer Care Team? How has it changed you?

• It has given me endless knowledge and awareness about what happens "behind the scenes." You learn that everything happens for a reason, there are reasons to why things are done the way they are, and there is a method to the madness! But it had helped me learn about the community I've grown up in, and what areas need to grow and improve. Educating the public and spreading awareness is one of the most important roles of being a volunteer, because without spreading that information and knowledge, then the negative things that happen in the community won't ever change. 

What is your favorite part about volunteering? What is your favorite “story”?

• In the beginning of 2016, the shelter unfortunately had a sickness spread throughout the shelter, sadly putting all dogs in a state of "isolation," where they could not be taken out of their kennels to be walked. It was a very rough couple of months, and volunteers were feeling helpless, as it was very hard to get dogs adopted. One of the dogs that was here while this happened, was a gorgeous, brindle, pit bull mix named Star. I had walked her a few times before the quarantine, and instantly connected with her. Every once and a while... you happen upon a dog at the shelter that you just click with, and that was this girl. I visited her in her kennel everyday while she was in quarantine, and constantly shared her picture on social media, hoping she would get adopted. Finally, after a couple of months, the quarantine was lifted, and we were able to get dogs out of the kennels again. I was the first person who RAN over to the kennels, and she was the first dog that I took out, and went on a run with her. And if anyone knows me... I don't run. But I ran for her. Unfortunately, she ended up being there for a few months, and ended up being placed on the urgent list. I couldn't believe no one wanted to adopt this sweet girl that I had fallen in love with! On her last day, I kept her out of her kennel all day, walking her around and introducing her to potential adopters that came in. I was FLOODING social media of pictures of her, and videos of her, as you could hear me crying in the background and pleading for someone come and adopt her. Finally, about an hour from closing, the SWEETEST family came in, looking for a new member to add to their family. I took this couple and their two kids to the play yards and introduced them to Star, where they fell in love with her. With tears running down my face, I walked them back over to the office for them to start filling out paperwork. I will never forget this day, and never forget Star. The mother got my contact information, and has kept me updated on Star (now Pumpkin) over the last almost 3 years.

What would you say to someone who might consider volunteering with WPCAS?

• Just DO IT! Take the chance. I can't tell you how many times I've heard someone say, "I would love to volunteer, but I would want to take them all home!" I have learned over the years to turn that want into the drive to find them another home. Since I can't take you home, I'm determined to find a home for you! You will be welcomed into the best kind of family who will show you the ropes, and welcome you into the rescue world! The good days will never stop outweighing the bad days.

Would you recommend this volunteer experience to others? Why?

• 100% YES! It is so rewarding and even the smallest of actions have the BIGGEST impact on the animals at the shelter, and in the community. Educating the public, spreading awareness, and always pushing for #adoptdontshop!