The Beatles told the world
”
you get by with a little help from your friends,
”
and now four-legged friends in Hollister need the community’s
help.
The Beatles told the world “you get by with a little help from your friends,” and now four-legged friends in Hollister need the community’s help.
The Hollister Animal Shelter is in desperate need for volunteer dog walkers and cat cuddlers to keep the animals company and give them exercise during the week.
“It’s good for the animals to get out and walk around,” volunteer June Hockenberry said. “They’re cooped up in the kennels 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”
The shelter is looking for people at least 18 years old, or 13 years old with an adult, to walk and play with the dogs and cats from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Hockenberry also encourages seniors to come out and volunteer as well because of the health benefits the animals provide.
“Pets provide companionship and an overall sense of well-being,” she said. “Plus it keeps them active.”
Vivian Kennedy, of All Creatures Great and Small Animal Rescue, said being locked up all day can give the dogs cage-fever and it’s important for them to socialize.
“They really need the chance to get outside and run around,” she said.
Hockenberry is hoping to find at least three people per day to volunteer. The shelter sits next to an open field where visitors can take the dogs out with Frisbees, balls and other play toys. Hockenberry said it’s a great way for people to spend some time with the animals, and also pick up some training tips.
“We have a team that comes out and trains the animals with clickers, so people who work with these animals will learn a new obedience technique for their pets as well,” she said.
Dog and cat lovers who are interested in purchasing an animal are encouraged to volunteer as well.
“This is a great way for people to see the dog’s personalities,” Volunteer Samantha Young said. “They can take the dogs out a couple times and get to know them so they can decide if they want to take them home to keep.”
People interested in bringing a tail wagging friend home this weekend can visit the All Creatures Great and Small Animal Rescue Adoption Day on Saturday, May 15. For more information about volunteering, call 831-628-9594, and to find out how to adopt this weekend call 831-636-7559.
