Manatee County Animal Services rewarding for volunteers

I spent 49 years in a business career which spanned London, England, and Ontario, Canada. I retired and became a snowbird, arriving in Ellenton three years ago.

I have always loved animals, particularly dogs, horses and cats, owning a number of them over various periods. Some years ago, I took a particular interest in helping unfortunate animals who through no fault of their own ended up abused or without a home.

A couple of weeks ago, I read a letter to he editor which you published and which encouraged people to help out at Manatee County Animal Services; they needed volunteers. I responded shortly after and was invited to an orientation, which I attended.

Approximately 20 people responded primarily because of that recent letter which you published. The orientation was informative and given by various members of the staff and other volunteers.

I learned several useful pieces of information which I can utilize on my chocolate Lab, which I rescued three years ago.

I decided there and then I would make myself available to whatever was needed, whether it be washing food dishes, cleaning runs or whatever. It's not as if I have to do something to pass the time, but I thought, "Why not?"

As I was leaving, I met a volunteer who asked if I had been on the orientation and would I be getting involved. I was moved by her devotion to help these unfortunate souls. She added she had been walking dogs since early that morning (there are more than a 100 and it was 1 p.m.).

I will "Walk the walk" and help these beautiful animals, and I hope you can find some time to do so as well. MCAS will be happy to hear from you and you can decide how much or little time you can give.

Mike Doughty

Ellenton

This story was originally published February 28, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Manatee County Animal Services rewarding for volunteers ."