Why did you get involved with volunteering at BHS?

I’ve always wanted to work with animals one way or another. And volunteering was an easy opportunity for me to work and learn about them! Also just helping out local shelters is very full filing for me and feels like I’m making a positive impact on the world. Even it’s small it’s important!

What is your favorite part of volunteering at BHS?

I definitely adore seeing the animals and interacting with them. Whether it be new ones or the old ones, I just love playing with them and getting cuddles! Even though I have to deal with their poop it’s part of working with animals.

Is there anything you have learned at BHS that you have carried into your personal experiences or shared with others?

I was debating with myself whether or not I was also a cat person. But ever since I’ve been volunteering with the cats at the shelter I’m definitely starting to lean more into cats… My family is flabbergasted.

Do you have any animals of your own?

Why yes! My beautiful but stinky Chihuahua Mix dog ‘Precious’! She’s about 14 years old, makes weird faces, loves eating treats, and rolling in random dog poop.

Why did you get involved with volunteering at BHS?

I started volunteering at Butte Humane Society because I researched a few shelters and felt that Butte Humane Society was the best fit for me.  I felt that they truly cared about the animals in their shelter and I could tell that they care about who they choose to help at their shelter. This stuck out to me because a lot of shelters just allow anyone to help volunteer, but Butte  Humane Society has the animal’s best interests at heart.

What is your favorite part of volunteering at BHS?

My favorite part about volunteering at Butte Humane Society is knowing that I am helping. I love being around the animals at the shelter because not only am I their safe haven, but they are mine too. The animals want to be loved and being in a shelter is hard for them mentally so even if I am there for an hour, I know I am making a small difference in their lives.

Is there anything you have learned at BHS that you have carried into your personal experiences or shared with others?

The people who work at the shelter are so caring and kind and have your best interests at heart. I have learned so much from everyone who works at Butte Humane Society. The most important thing I have learned is that both the workers and animals trust you and once you have that trust, you truly feel that you are part of the Butte Humane Society family.

Do you have any animals of your own?

I have a Corgi named Blue at home. I call him my son. He is 3 years old and if anything that dog has taught me how to have patience!

Why did you get involved with volunteering at BHS?

I have always loved animals, but in July I adopted a dog from Placer County Animal Services. She’d had a hard life and was in a critical medical condition when they got her. Seeing how compassionately the staff and volunteers cared for her in her time of need made me want to do what I can to pass on the favor.

What is your favorite part of volunteering at BHS?

I thoroughly enjoy the entire experience. Everyone there is great, but there can’t be a favorite overseeing the dogs happy. Seeing how happy they are running around the play yard or squeaking a toy is the most rewarding thing I’ve experienced. Dogs ask for so little and give so much. Just 10 minutes of our time can mean the world to them.

Is there anything you have learned at BHS that you have carried into your personal experiences or shared with others?

I’m going to split that question. The biggest thing I’ve learned at the shelter is that the behavior you see in the shelter environment is not always who the dog is. They sometimes may seem overly energetic or cautious but it’s because they need a home where they can be comfortable, loved, and stretch their legs. What I carry with me from the shelter into my personal experiences is the absolute happiness these dogs give me. It has changed my life and all of my experiences. I feel very lucky to have this opportunity.

Do you have any animals of your own?

I have a 5-year-old Border Collie Pit mix named Ares who I adopted when he was a puppy, a German Shepherd that’s a year and a half old named Annabelle who I adopted in July, and 4 chickens: Tot, Pansy, Goldy, and Length.

Why did you get involved with volunteering at BHS?
After the passing of my beloved dog Bruno, who was not just a pet but a cherished family member for 14 years, I felt a profound need to channel my love for animals in a meaningful way. Volunteering at BHS became that outlet, allowing me to contribute positively while honoring his life. It’s been therapeutic, offering both a chance to spread love to animals awaiting their forever homes and an opportunity to leverage my photography skills for a noble cause.

What is your favorite part of volunteering at BHS?
Forging connections is by far the most rewarding part of my time at BHS—whether it’s with the dogs, the dedicated staff, or the wider community. And it’s truly rewarding to witness the impact of my photography in real time — how a single photo can touch hearts can become a catalyst for a dog’s new beginning with their soul family while championing the cause of a remarkable organization.