Some of you may know that I volunteer with the SPCA. This was my first time volunteering on Clear the Shelters day, though. Once a year, shelters in North Texas waive their adoption fees for the animals. They told me that last year at the SPCA, it was crazy, with a line wrapped around the building, so I expected that it would be an adventure.

I got there about a quarter to 10 to get my assignment. They told me people had been waiting in lawn chairs since 6am that morning. I was assigned to be an adoption specialist. As each group came in, I walked with them, talked with them about what kind of dog they were looking for. Sometimes it was a particular dog that they wanted, sometimes it was a type of dog. But even if the dog they wanted was already adopted, they were still open to other canine companion options.

It was such a rush to find a forever home for the dogs. During my shift, I matched five dogs to their families. Seeing them interact with such love just made my heart smile.

And from the time I got there to the point I had to leave, we had 35 dogs and cats go home. In total, the SPCA of Texas found homes for 132 animals on Saturday. It was especially neat to see some of the dogs who had been there for several months go home with loving families.

This is Cree. She is a 6 year old Shepard mix who has been in the shelter since April. Towards the end of my shift, it was announced that she was going home. All the volunteers and staff were over the moon, wiping away happy tears and cheering.

This is why I love the SPCA. Everyone who works there, everyone who volunteers there, truly love those animals, taking care of them until they go home with their families. Because that’s what it’s all about, finding homes for these precious animals. I hope they do this again next year, and I hope I get to be a part of it again. It truly was a wonderful experience.

If you are interested in donating or volunteering with the SPCA of Texas, check out their website here. Do you volunteer with any charities or organizations? Or have you adopted from a shelter before?