This project is to benefit the "residents" at the Ross County Humane Society. They are usually filled to capacity with dogs and cats. With a very small staff, they are not able to walk the dogs often, and it is out in the country where a lot of people in our county have never even been. Besides dog-walking, I hope that bringing more volunteers to the shelter will also lead to more adoptions.
vital stats:
people impacted:
50
people involved:
50
why it's important:
I shared my ideas with people at the Humane Society. They asked me to make a flyer. It is about groups coming out to volunteer just to walk dogs. I will mail the flyer out to senior citizens' groups, 4H groups, and area churches. I plan to post them at my school, and around the county. I will follow up with the senior centers' activities directors, and hope that various groups will come into the shelter to spend a couple of hours walking dogs. People with limited mobility can socialize the cats. More eager volunteers can even bathe the animals, or do chores like laundry, cleaning, etc. Maybe there would be some volunteers to mow, and do odd jobs. There is always plenty to do, and some seniors have lots of time, but many aren't able to have pets of their own. Some, like my Girl Scout troop may come once, but I hope some will come on a regular basis. Bringing many new people into the shelter should increase the number of adoptions, too. It will also give a positive image of the dogs and the shelter to the community.
the plan of action:
First, I have volunteered at the shelter myself. My mom and I have walked and bathed dogs, helped with laundry, and I love to play in the cat room. I designed the flyer, and my project was approved by their board last week. They are very excited about the project. I hope to be able to provide new leashes to make it nicer for the new dog-walkers. I'd like to put some benches out in the field for them to rest with their dogs. Maybe even some paver paths, so there is less risk of falling. The shelter always needs new towels, shampoo to keep the dogs looking and smelling their best for potential families. These items could be provided if we got a grant. There could even be some print ads in our local newspaper to let seniors and organizations know about the opportunites at the shelter. Maybe we could stage an open house with refreshments to introduce volunteers in a "no obligation" way. I know once they meet these sweet pets, they'll want to keep coming back!
how you can get involved:
Others will help by volunteering!
I have connections with a boy scout troop and several 4H groups that may be interested in volunteering. I know of three churches that will be interested and will post it for their senior citizens, as well as use it as a youth group idea. A teacher at my high school said he may start to use shelter volunteer hours as credit in this agriculture classes as a livestock project for those who don't have farm animals.
project updates:
07/23/2009
I've purchased/made strong new leads for dog-walking, 2 puppy corrals for off-site events, harnesses, flea shampoo, and a transporting kennel. I have a great poster to send out to organizations that have potential volunteers, and to post at vets' offices.
I have also received generous donations from Petland that includes treats, toys, cat items, and food.
I hope to present the items at The Ross County Humane Society Board Meeting Tuesday, July 28th at 7pm. I have already started distributing posters and flyers.
What a great project! It has motivated me to want to go to our area shelter here in Franklin to volunteer to walk dogs. I never would have thought to do that, but what a great thing to do that would be easy and enjoyable! I love the idea to get benches, that will encourage people who are walking the dogs to spend more time with them, and the dogs may get out for longer. Good luck with your grant!
This is a great way to get people connected with the animals and hopefully will spread the word that these animals need a home. Keep up the the great work!
Comments
What a great project! It has motivated me to want to go to our area shelter here in Franklin to volunteer to walk dogs. I never would have thought to do that, but what a great thing to do that would be easy and enjoyable! I love the idea to get benches, that will encourage people who are walking the dogs to spend more time with them, and the dogs may get out for longer. Good luck with your grant!
This is a great way to get people connected with the animals and hopefully will spread the word that these animals need a home. Keep up the the great work!