This month we are excited to celebrate our amazing volunteer, Rachael Simpson. Rachael has been with EHS since 2017 and makes a big contribution to the shelter. We can’t thank her enough for all her hard work and dedication. Check out our interview with Rachael below!
How did you hear about EHS?
I found out about EHS online. I had recently split with my boyfriend at the time. My boyfriend took his dog with the split. I wanted to find a place where I could spend time with dogs and also help them. Little did I know it would end up being the most important thing in my life!
How long have you been volunteering with EHS?
About two years. I started in the early summer of 2017. I started off as a dog care attendant on the Saturday night shift, and I have recently taken on the role of dog adoption coordinator (still have my Saturday shift though!).
What’s your favourite part about coming to the shelter?
The dogs! I've always loved animals but my love for dogs has grown so much since I started volunteering here. Every dog that comes into the shelter leaves a small pawprint on my heart. I've also become really close with my shiftmates over the past 2 years, so I always look forward to seeing my girls as well.
What is it about dogs that makes you want to volunteer with EHS?
When I first started volunteering, my main reason was that I really love dogs. However, I rescued my own fur baby, a border collie named Luna, shortly after I started at EHS. She had a lot of issues, to the point where there was the possibility of euthanasia if I (or someone else willing) did not rescue her. She is now the absolute love of my life, and because of her, I want to help as many "difficult" dogs as I can. Now I go to the shelter specifically for those dogs that are reactive or "aggressive", hoping that I can make a positive impact on their life as I have for Luna.
Have there been any dogs that have been especially special or memorable for you? Why?
Any reactive/fear aggressive/guarded dog is very memorable to me. They have a special place in my heart because my own dog is similar – Lola, Biscuit, Milo, Paul, Royal & Regal, and now the three brothers (Quincey, Chauncey, Humphrey). I also just recently adopted out Marley, who I got very attached to. It was hard not to love him, though. This shelter has become my home away from home, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to do what I love with such amazing people. The world needs more organizations like this – ones that are so committed to animals, regardless of time or cost. I am very proud to be a volunteer here and helping these dogs has very quickly become the most meaningful part of my life (besides my own fur child, of course). I am 100% committed to this organization and the animals we serve.
Shoutout to my Saturday night team, Maureen, Louisa, and Tracey! Love you girls!