It seems to me there are a couple of issues here. I don't think a shelter wants just any JoeBloe walking in one day to say "hey I'd like to help by walking your dogs". The shelter needs to know something about its volunteers though a criminal check might be a bit much. If someone has been volunteering at a shelter for some time so the staff knows them and now new policies are being put into effect, then the shelter should have some sort of informational meeting/handout for all its volunteers so they know what and why. And even when volunteers have been accepted, some mini-training should be included for handling dogs. Many shelter dogs have been abused so I wouldn't want a volunteer who grew up under the "old" system of training with spanking and collar yerking now handling a special needs dog. Actual certification for dog walkers - no - the government intrudes enough.
Happy dog story, non b
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This was in the August 1 issue - it made me cry happy tears.;)
The following link was sent from Sharron
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What a heartwarming story.
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Oh WOW Sharron,
Thank you so much for sharing that article. I am trying not to ball out loud at work. It truly is amazing what animals can do for us, yet another reason to advocate for good lives for all animals out there. -
While you try not to, I am miserably failing at the same thing. I am literally sobbing in my cubicle. Really great story.
