Doing Something Worthwhile

Finally, after some years of talking about it, I attended an orientation class to volunteer at our local animal shelter.   I see posts from time to time on this board about people wanting to do something to get out of the house, fight depression, etc. 

I am now in my fourth week of volunteering.   I go to the shelter 2-3 times per week and spend my time in the cat condos.  I really miss them on the days I do not go, and I am sure I will begin to give more time.  A good friend of mine now donates her time as well.

The interaction with the cats is just wonderful.   What is really touching is when I unlock the door and enter the condo, most of them run to me, and sometimes I have three or four trying to jump on my lap at the same time.  They are beautiful, and the time I am spending with them is helping me as much as it helps them.

I just wanted to post to let people know this is a great way to get out of the house, and for an animal lover it is the best medicine you will find for depression. 

At first it was difficult, but on my fifth visit to the shelter I was responsible for having a darling cat named Captain Jack get adopted.  Little "Jack" is a precious black cat about 4-6 months of age, who has only one eye.  He literally could not get close enough to me, crawling up my chest and putting his little head under my chin.  I spoke to a woman and her daughter about him, and told them to check him out.  I directed them to the proper condo.  Two days later when I went to volunteer I looked for him because I could not wait to hold him again.  The staff at the desk told me the young girl loved him so much, and he is the won she chose.  That's a good feeling! 

I have been donating things to the shelter, and would like to purchase some new beds for the cats when I have the money.

If you love animals, give this a try.  The staff is so appreciative, and meeting the public and just being around them and some of the volunteers is now something I look forward to.  It is really making a difference in my life.

Thank you for reading.