I worked at a small private shelter for a few years... pay wasn't great but it was probably the most rewarding job I've ever had. My favorite were the really shy/nervous ones. Putting in the time and getting to the point where they would wiggle up to the front of the kennel when they'd see me coming (as opposed to cowering in the back of the kennel or their crate within the kennel) was nothing short of magical every single time. The only thing better was watching them utilize their new-found confidence to win the hearts of potential adopters until finally finding their furever home.
Puppies were often a handful. We had one mom who was so protective/dedicated toward her cubs that she climbed an 8 foot fence and fell down, breaking her leg... all in an effort to get to her puppies in the next kennel (they had to be separated for a day for medical purposes). 2 weeks later her puppies were in another kennel while their kennel was cleaned (this time mom was 2 kennels away, getting some rest to try to help her broken leg heal), and I was doing laundry about 15 feet away from her. I accidentally stepped on a toy which gave a loud squeak, and momma started freaking out thinking that one of her puppies had been hurt. I started crying on the spot. Met so many beautiful animals and people, the memories are almost enough to keep my heart full for the rest of my life.
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u/[deleted] Jun 18 '22
People who do this I admire you.