One of the main reasons that shelters are able to operate and help save thousands of animal lives is the generous donations of supporters. Compassionate people who donate their time are just as crucial. This is the case for Jody, Lynda, and Sue who have been volunteering in the cat program at the Humane Society of Livingston County for several years now. The three of them have a shared passion for felines and spend a lot of time loving and assessing each cat to help socialize them and educate potential new loving families.
“When scared cats enter our shelter many often don’t know love or human touch. Our job is to get to know them and who they really are. We truly love them, and when we watch them find their perfect home and forever happiness, we know our job is done.” Jody says.
They all realized early on that there is such a strong need for volunteer work “because the animals don’t have a voice of their own, so we are that voice for them.” Lynda says. Sue also agreed by proclaiming “If we don’t help the animals, then who will?”
Along the way, they shared a lot of happy memories of cats that didn’t always have a happy start but ended up with a happy new beginning. One story that warmed their hearts was the story of Anchovy, a male domestic grey cat that was found in a gas station parking lot, paralyzed from the back down at only 8 weeks old. After being brought in, Anchovy went through a series of extensive treatments thanks to HSLC’s talented medical staff and volunteers. Although he was healthier and happier after the treatments, the team was worried that it would be harder for him to get adopted because he was permanently paralyzed. Just before the holidays someone came in that previously had a cat that was paralyzed just like Anchovy and immediately fell in love with him. Anchovy is now enjoying life with his forever family.
Because of volunteers like Jody, Lynda, and Sue, all cats that arrive at HSLC receive love and attention when they are in that transition period before they find their forever homes.
Interested in being a volunteer to help care for homeless animals? Please visit the Michigan Humane Society volunteer section to learn more.
Photo credit: Erin Lin