Find out why Dallas Animal Services volunteer, Deanna, is an animal hero.
What initially inspired you to start volunteering/fostering with DAS? In June 2022, my roommate's dog passed away, leaving a void. I had always wanted to adopt a dog, so I started volunteering at DAS to find the perfect match. While I haven't adopted yet, I fell in love with many dogs and have fostered some.
Can you share a memorable experience or achievement from your time as a volunteer/foster? So many! Meeting my first foster, Smurf. Volunteering at a Valentineās photo shoot and a Texas Rangers adoption event. Taking dogs out for a Daycation. My most memorable achievement is getting Instagram messages from people who found out about dogs in need through my posts. It feels amazing to know I helped them. <3
What motivates you to continue volunteering/fostering and giving back to the community? Seeing all the happy outcomes. I love having the opportunity to highlight them.
How has volunteering/fostering impacted your life personally or professionally? It's definitely become a passion of mine. I wish I had started volunteering sooner! I've learned so much about dog behaviorāI thought I knew dogs before, but I had so much to learn!
What advice would you give to someone who is considering volunteering/fostering but hasn't taken the leap yet? It's really rewarding, especially if you're someone like me who always gravitates toward dogs at parties. This is your sign, ha-ha.
Can you tell us about a project or initiative you're currently working on as a volunteer? I figured out how to make YouTube videos for dog profiles that work with Adopets. Then I saw a foster dog's profile with a Vimeo video and thought it was awesome. Now I use Vimeo for dog profile videos too.
What do you enjoy most about being a part of the DAS volunteer/foster program? Meeting other volunteers and staff has been great. I've learned so much from everyone, and it's fun to volunteer with others. Melissa (fellow volunteer) and I often team up to get media of the dogs. I also enjoy the various opportunities for volunteers, like helping hang stockings and making ornaments during Christmas time.
How do you balance your volunteer/foster commitments with other aspects of your life? I volunteer about once a week and take breaks as needed; it works well for me!
What are your future goals or aspirations related to volunteering/fostering? Two of my main goals this year are to foster for a DAS rescue partner and to foster my first cat or kittens.