Cat lovers are encouraged to volunteer their time at local animal shelters during National Volunteer Week, which runs from April 15 through April 21. (Stock photo) |
National Volunteer Week, which was held April 15-21, celebrates people who volunteer their time to help local and national organizations and causes. This year, Petfinder.com, an online database of adoptable pet animals, acknowledges the thousands of volunteers who take time to help homeless cats and dogs by donating their time to local animal shelters and rescue groups.
In conjunction with the week-long celebration, Petfinder.com asked pet lovers to consider becoming volunteers in their communities. “We encourage people to use National Volunteer Week as the impetus to log onto Petfinder.com’s volunteer database and find out how they can help,” said Betsy Saul, Petfinder.com co-founder. “Every person can make a difference in the life of a pet waiting for adoption.”
At Pet Haven Rescue in Murrieta, Calif., Cindy Zauss hopes to make a difference in the lives of homeless cats and dogs. Zauss founded the rescue organization in 2003 because “there was such a need for animals to get good homes, especially the cats.”
Pet Haven Rescue participates in adoption events at local pet stores and dog boarding facilities. Its goals include educating the public about the importance of spaying and neutering and placing animals in new homes.
“We try to find the best possible homes for the animals, placing them with the right families,” Zauss said. “Last year, we placed about 150 to 200 cats in new homes.”
Zauss benefits from the help of several volunteers, including her son, Zach, and several high school students. Nikki Holler, a junior at Vista Murrieta High School, has worked with Pet Haven Rescue for three months. “I love animals,” she said, adding that the most rewarding aspect of her volunteer work is when the animals finally find a home.
For more information about Pet Haven Rescue, click here.