I hear this statement quite often. “How can you work here? I never could, I would be crying all the
time.” I take that opportunity to educate about the value of our shelter and the fact that the animals here are being loved, fed and kept safe. But, yeah, I get it. Some days are definitely harder. Like when a staff favorite loses its battle with illness. Or when a dog that I have worked so hard for is deemed unadoptable and humanely euthanized. To be fair, this does not happen too often, and when it does, our hands are tied by legal definitions or liability issues. It is NEVER done lightly or for space. But, I digress.

How do I work here? Easy. I love my job. I get to change the lives of the animals I serve. I am richer for being here. This job is good for one’s soul. Sure, I scoop poop, dish out food, and do laundry that would give most people pause, but it is so worth the reward of matching a pet with a new family. It is so rewarding to know that I was able to change the life of not just that pet, but also the humans that have just started a new journey with that pet. The joy that I get to bring is so worth the cold mornings of sanitation.

I am able to educate those looking for pets. I am able to encourage people to see the value in spay/neuter and training. I am able to showcase the wonderful animals that I come to love. Is it hard to see some leave? Absolutely. There are some dogs that cross my heart almost daily. I do wonder how they are adjusting to their new lives. I wonder if their new people can possibly love them as much as I do. But you know what? I am sure they are blossoming. I know that I did my best to match them. I listen not only to the people but to the animals. I believe that after spending so much time with these animals, I can sense what they need to be balanced and happy. With that knowledge, I do my utmost best to find a human that can provide that.

How can I work here? Simple, how can I not?

Author: HSSV Staff Member, Jarin