How you heard about IDR?
During January 2021, I was looking to rehome another dog, after my own dog passed away. I have always had rescue dogs, and found IDR by chance via an online search. I had applied to SSPCA and The Dogs Trust - despite being advised I was suitable to adopt - every dog I expressed interest in was never available.
After finding the IDR website, I saw Truffle was available for adoption but she was disabled. I had had a disabled dog previously so I knew I had the skills to help a dog with a disability live a fulfilling life. I applied to adopt Truffle and brought her home in February 2021.
When you started volunteering and why?
I started volunteering in February 2021 after adopting Truffle. I never knew IDR existed before and I have always been passionate about animal welfare, dogs especially.
I wanted to do something with meaning, and I have always got along much better with animals than my fellow humans! After two weeks of volunteering, I also adopted Luther, and I continued attending on a weekly basis to help the rescue, as without IDR my Truffle and Luther would not have been alive.
When did you become a senior?
I became a Senior volunteer in December 2021, after about 10 months of regular and consistent volunteering. I was always keen to help out and do more, and took the opportunity to learn from the Seniors about the duties which included kennel cleaning to the required standards, feeding and care regimes as well as assisting with mentoring new volunteers.
I was asked if I wanted to become a Senior, and despite working full time and knowing that it was a very involved commitment, I happily accepted and have been a Senior for three years so far.
What you do here?
I routinely open up and cover the day running of IDR on Sundays. This involves opening up, preparing feeds, cleaning out kennels, ensuring each dog is well and fit for the day ahead.
I ensure that each dog gets plenty of exercise and positive attention. I also try and use training techniques with the dogs and match them up with day volunteers.
I carry out dog assessments and adoption viewings as well as inductions for new volunteers.
I am also involved in training up new Seniors, as well as young people attending as part of the Duke of Edinburgh program.
It can be very involved, but the key focus for me is ensuring that the dogs remain the centre of attention and appropriately cared for and assessed to ensure they are matched to the best home possible.
What you really like doing best?
I love engaging with the dogs and being part of their journey and transition towards finding a new home with a family of their own. I have a keen interest in learning and teaching people to listen to the dog by understanding their body language, as well as helping the dog grow in confidence, as they learn to trust people, and ultimately flourish.
What you get from it yourself?
I get a very deep sense of joy and personal satisfaction. It helps keep me grounded and emphasis what is really important in life - to have gained the trust of a dog, especially one that was once terrified of people, is for me the most wonderful feeling in the world.
A special dog...
Leo, the beagle/lab cross. He was a riot and completely out of control when he first arrived. I took it upon myself to start to train him using positive reinforcement techniques. WoW what a smart, smart dog. We had some challenging and exhilarating experiences, and he taught me a great deal about how important it is to build a relationship with a dog, have patience and trust in them. Once you give them time and learn to listen to them the rewards are extraordinary.
Leo is now happily rehomed and I am absolutely delighted for him.