Hey, I’m Lynnette, 52, medically retired NHS Board Secretary. I started Volunteering at Islay Dog Rescue in January 2024. Both my sons have now flown the nest. I have two dogs of my own but my mental and physical health began to crumble and I knew I had to do something about it. Not being able to work bothers me more than you can imagine so I thought I would try and give something back.
Being local to the area I was always aware of Islay and the thought of giving these dogs some comfort, love, care and companionship just felt like the right thing for me to do. I am unable to walk any distance and thought I might not be welcome to volunteer if that was the case. I have always been made very welcome and since I've been there I can see how many different ways you can volunteer, it's not all about walking. Some people do gardening, handywork, cleaning or spending time with the dogs. But I spend lots of time sitting with these dogs - talking to them and petting them. It can be both emotional and uplifting but my experiences so far have been mostly uplifting.
Being with these dogs, some of which haven’t had the best start in life, boosts my mood, reduces my anxiety greatly, distracts my mind from the daily pain I endure and makes me feel calmer.
Something very special happens to you when these vulnerable creatures start to trust you. Giving a voice to those that can’t speak for themselves is elating and I hope to continue to do it for a long time.