Never Without Them

by Carolyn Cothran

Keeping over a 100 dogs happy and healthy requires a big commitment. Not just from the amazing volunteers who come out and walk and socialize our dogs, but also from our entire staff.

They start early in the morning cleaning the kennels. They also keep track of everyone and report anything to us that needs our attention. One favorite joke we share is that I receive more pictures of poop than anyone around! The puppies also require feeding twice a day.

The staff also helps us with a lot of maintenance. The kennels need to be in good order which requires repairs from time-to-time. There is also yard work and cleaning of the office and play yards.

We also need to pick the perfect kennel mates so that dogs have roommates they enjoy. This is a real art and requires several of us all at once.

We medicate all dogs who need it, keep up on vaccinations and worming and flea treatments.

Our vet comes out a couple of times a week and we always have a list of who needs attention. The staff bring out each dog from the kennel and assists the vet as needed.

They feed the dogs at noon and clean up after.

The work never ends, and this group happily jumps in and works very hard because they are committed to our dogs.

Syd and I trade off days and work our shifts to lead and help in any way we can.