A few years ago I was in college and looking for a way to give back to my community. A friend told me I could sign up to volunteer at the animal shelter and help socialize the animals. I LOVE animals so this sounded perfect! And it was. That was 4 years ago. I've since graduated and have moved on to the 40 hour/week work life. In my spare time, you can find me walking and socializing with the dogs at Butte Humane Society (BHS). My favorite part about volunteering is of course watching an animal find it's forever home. Nothing beats that feeling. But seeing a dog's face light up when it's running around the play yard or spending time away from the shelter for a few hours is what keeps me coming back week after week. And I can't help but smile seeing their joy.
3 years ago, I decided to adopt. Being in college at the time and living in a 1 bedroom apartment did not make it ideal for a dog. So, my fiance and I adopted a cat. We knew we didn't want a kitten. They're absolutely adorable but can be little balls of destruction. Having been at the shelter, I knew how the senior pets were often looked over because of their age. We found the oldest cat in the shelter at the time and brought him home. His name is Fred. He is 15 years old and the absolute joy of our lives. Within the first 30 minutes of bringing him home, he was walking around like he owned the place. And he does. He's incredibly spoiled — has his own blankets, 2 beds, his own chair and in constantly demanding cuddles. He gives kisses, boops your nose, sleeps with us every single night and will request to lay under blankets with you. He truly is the sweetest kitty you'll meet. His health hasn't been the greatest in the last 4 months, but he's a trooper and has been improving. Fred is an incredibly important part of my life because of Butte Humane Society. And for that, I thank them.
As a volunteer, I've seen a number of dogs come through the shelter. Many find their homes in a matter of weeks, some spend a few months there and then there are a few that are unlucky enough to be in and out of the shelter for years. Bubba, Chloe, Odin, Addi, Lox, Keeta, Cyndi, Oswald, Hercules (see pictures below); each of these dogs have come through the doors of BHS and left with a family to call their own. This year I'm fundraising for two dogs that have been at the shelter for much too long: Stella and Maurice.
Maurice is a 3 year old American pit bull mix. He has had a history with BHS for about 2 years now. Adopted out a handful of times only to be brought back time and time again. Maurice is slow to warm up to people. He needs time. He needs space. I've known Maurice for a long time now. Once you break through that shyness, he is the sweetest happiest boy. He loves to be pet and play fetch. He's got a smile that'll
melt your heart. Maurice would be best in a quiet home with adult(s). He gets along with some dogs but needs slow introduction. Maurice has been at the shelter for too long but has been patiently waiting for his forever home.
Stella is also a 3 year old American pit bull mix. She came to the shelter as as stray. She's been at BHS for about a year now. Stella is extremely energetic. Loves to play but sometimes her excitement can get the best of her. She can be jumpy and would do best with no children. She isn't a fan of other dogs so would need to be the only dog. As you can see in the picture, Stella has the cutest floppy ears that seem to have a mind of their own. Stella girl is a happy go lucky girl who deserves a loving home with lots of land to run.
For the past 3 years, I've been participating in Bidwell Bark — the last 2 in the 5k run. This year I will be partaking in the 5k fun run again! My goals for Bidwell Bark this year are to fundraise the most I ever have ($500!) and to beat my personal best 5k. You can help me reach my goal! You can make a difference! Every dollar helps. Your donation will go towards essential services like medications, spay/neuter, vaccinations and so much more! Butte Humane Society is an amazing non profit organization. The staff and volunteers care deeply for every animals that comes through their doors. Together, we can help BHS continue their mission of saving lives, finding homes and inspiring compassion.
