Sheila has been with the Humane Society of Ventura County for a year and a half and loves coming to volunteer, “There are so many things to help out with, and I can choose what works best for my interests and schedule.” Sheila began volunteering for the HSVC after she retired and wanted to give back in a way to benefit the animals. She signed up, attended training, and never looked back.

Sheila has volunteered in many different ways at the shelter. She started walking dogs and helping out at events but was interested in helping out more after the Thomas Fire. Seeing the shelter taking in so many animals during the natural disaster, she was inspired. She now also helps with our horses and writes the profiles for our dogs and cats. When asked what her all-time favorite activity is, she said, “I enjoy spending time with the dogs that are shy or scared. All of us volunteers feel like happy and proud foster parents when these little dogs get adopted to their forever homes.” Sheila is also a part of our Pack Walk Program, which has volunteers walking dogs in groups on a trail near the shelter.

While Sheila didn’t want to call any animals her ‘favorite,’ she has adopted three dogs from the shelter with the most recent being a sweet 9-year-old poodle named Clover. Clover came into the shelter very scared, and Sheila took to her quickly. After thinking it over and making sure all the dogs got along, Sheila brought Clover home!

Volunteering at the HSVC is something anyone can do. Sheila said it best, “It is so easy to get started, and you can set your own schedule.  You will learn so much about animals and animal behavior. The staff and volunteers are so helpful and nice, and their enthusiasm is infectious!” Anyone interested in volunteering is welcome to contact our Volunteer Coordinator Amanda Volden to learn more about the process and training dates. She can be reached by phone at (805)646-6505 x110 or by email at [email protected].