BY TAYLOR SCHWEITZER
When it comes to animal concerns, the humane society reaches out with help from volunteers and aims to make a difference.
Students at Conestoga College shared what they can do to help make a difference at a shelter while the volunteers are hard at work.
“I would definitely play with every single animal, at least I would try to,” said Vinicio Monzon, a second-year protection/security and investigation student.
Allen Bezeau, a second-year journalism broadcast student, said, “I worked at a shelter as a volunteer before, so I know the importance of getting involved. I’m a dog person, so if I see a dog, I’m there. I’d walk it or play with it.”
Helping out at a humane society doesn’t cost a thing, except giving your heart, along with a little bit of your time.
“Volunteers are extremely important to the Guelph Humane Society,” said Lisa Viet, the associate director at the Guelph Humane Society. “We currently have over 100 volunteers who assist with cat care, dog walking, socializing pets with special needs, providing foster homes, assisting at events (such as adoption promotions or awareness activities), to name just a few.”
With a lot of animals in the community, it is impossible to save them all. However, one act of kindness can help reduce the number of homeless pets.
“The most effective way that we can prevent pet abandonment is to ensure that those who are interested in bringing a pet into their home are well-informed on responsible pet ownership,” Viet said. “Many times, the decision to bring a pet into the home is made impulsively, and there is a failure to plan for the long-term commitment associated with being a pet owner.”
Karen Harnock, a first-year business administration-marketing student, said, “Helping out humane societies can make anyone feel good. I’ve made a lot of donations, as well as my family, online and through donation of toys for animals. It’s worth putting in the time to help animals in need.”
She added, “If I had to help out at a shelter for the day, you would definitely see me making sure that animals were given the attention that they need, as well as making sure they had lots of food and water.”
The Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society provides various services including adoptions, animal protection and a cruelty helpline. They also have job opportunities posted on their website and you can also call 519-745-5615 or email them at info@kwhumane.com.
Anyone interested in making a difference in the life of an animal can either visit the Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph or Cambridge humane society or can go online to access more information.
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