Volunteers of the Month
by Dale Green
David DeMello and Mark Martin:
We all know how important volunteers are for The Ranch’s operation. They take the dogs on much-needed walks, administer love, and keep an eye out for injuries, depression, and other ailments. They help with feeding, and sometimes cleaning (yep, all that poop has to be picked up). Some volunteers are fosters, too.
David and Mark are two shining examples of foster/volunteers. They live out in Chantepec, but make the long drive, in bad traffic, to come to The Ranch. It takes them about an hour to reach us. They are always upbeat and more than ready to get to work walking and caring for the dogs. Never empty-handed, they always arrive with leashes, tasty hot dog treats and more, plus they launder our dirty towels.
The dogs, staff and other volunteers love them. They are reliable, and ever-watchful for dog problems likes a limp, cut, change in mood, or a momentary disagreement between dogs. They’ve got our pups and their idiosyncrasies down pat.
When dog transport is needed, they are the first to volunteer their services, schlepping our furries to and from events to help with exposure and adoptions. Seriously, there is nothing that these guys won't do.
Before SOS dog rescue closed a few years back, David and Mark were tireless devotees there. The dogs, who were transitioned to The Ranch from SOS, have a special place in their hearts, but they give all of our dogs love, and receive it back tenfold with doggy kisses and wiggly wags.
David and Mark don't just work at The Ranch, they also foster dogs. They have fostered several of our pooches post-veterinary-treatment, and some who came in just needing a little extra quiet and TLC. You can imagine what a great start those dogs get, under the care of these two dedicated humans. Most recently they took Leo to give him a little break from shelter life, and we’re happy to say that Leo was their first ever foster fail! That’s really saying something about Leo, considering how many fosters Mark and David have hosted. They had to batten down a few hatches in their house to contain the wily Leo, but without a doubt, he is well worth it. We’re certain Leo is so grateful for them, and he now lives in their wonderful home with their other happy dogs.
David and Mark are well-known in the community as supporters of animals and people, and generously spread their love and assistance throughout the Lakeside area. They are thoughtful, compassionate, and giving. We are eternally grateful that they have chosen The Ranch to be a benefactor of their volunteer and foster services!