October 18th Service on Saturday: Memphis Animal Services (P.A.U.S.E. Only)

Upon arrival at the animal shelter, we were warmly welcomed by the staff and shown inside, which immediately created a friendly and comfortable environment. After a brief check-in, we split into small groups, signed waivers, and were each assigned to different stations based on the shelter’s needs. I was paired with two other volunteers, and we were assigned to dog walking. Although I didn’t grow up around dogs and had limited experience with them, I was eager to learn. This experience allowed me to become more comfortable with animals and taught me the basics of dog care, such as handling a leash properly, reading canine body language, and ensuring the safety of both the animal and the handler during walks. It was a learning experience that built both my confidence and my understanding of animal behavior. Working as part of a small team made the process easier and more enjoyable, we communicated well, shared responsibilities, and supported one another when challenges came up. For example, when our dog was a bit too excited at the beginning of the walk, we worked together to keep him calm and maintain control, which made me appreciate the value of teamwork in unpredictable situations. Beyond just caring for the animals, this volunteer experience gave me insight into larger social issues, particularly animal homelessness and the importance of shelters in providing second chances. It was eye-opening to see how many animals are in need of care, and it made me reflect on the importance of adoption, community education, and responsible pet ownership. The shelter itself was well-organized and clean, and the staff clearly cared deeply about the animals, which created a positive and safe space for both volunteers and animals. Their passion was inspiring and encouraged me to think about how I could do more to contribute. One thing I would suggest for future visits is a short orientation or training session before starting, especially for volunteers like me who may not have much experience with animals. Even a quick introduction to the shelter’s expectations, safety procedures, and brief notes on each dog’s temperament would help first-time volunteers feel more prepared and confident. Overall, this service opportunity was incredibly rewarding and left a lasting impression on me. It helped me grow personally and pushed me out of my comfort zone in a healthy and meaningful way. I definitely plan to continue volunteering with this organization.