I first heard of Islay Dog Rescue when I saw a post advertising rescue dogs for adoption on Facebook. After COVID my children went to nursery/school and I was looking for something to do while job searching. I love animals and thought what better way to offer help than doing what I love.
I started around 2021 as a volunteer and would walk the dogs for miles. Islay Dog Rescue is based rurally so I had lots of time to “find myself” (as I’m sure many parents of young children will understand).
In 2022 I became a Senior Volunteer and this meant I became more responsible and worked closely with the dogs. I developed a passion for foreign street dogs, it’s difficult to explain but they are very different and when they love you – they really love you.
Around Christmas 2023 Lorraine asked if I would help with the management of the kennels. I agreed immediately!! I’m now the Volunteer Kennel Manager and do all the duties that entails. I support Lorraine and we work very closely together.
Sometimes I can be very stressful and heartbreaking being involved in dog rescue but at other times I can’t believe how lucky I am. One of the hardest times was earlier in 2024 when we took in 13 dogs from a neglectful situation. None of us had ever seen dogs in such a stage. Unfortunately one dog passed away but all the others found wonderful homes and their owners stay in touch. It was hard to do the heavy work involved but it was also my job to keep everybody focussed and positive. Every single Senior Volunteer worked their fingers to the bone and gave their hearts – I am so proud of them all.
I’m always asked “who has been your favourite dog” and that’s difficult to answer. Despite being a non-crier I have bubbled a little when some have left. One in particular was Milo, a shih tzu. He came to us because his owner was in hospital. What was meant to be a two-week stay turned into 6 months. He was rather naughty and fond of fingers but I loved him non-the-less. He now has his own special human so I know he is happy.