Fiona's story

Brodie and I both love volunteering, it was actually Brodie that wanted to volunteer and I was only drafted in because Brodie needed a responsible adult to accompany her because of her age. I’m so glad that she did. I can’t imagine life without volunteering! 

Brodie's story 

I started volunteering when I was 13 years old and I am now 15! I knew that when I left school I would like to work with animals. I’m not sure what job I would like yet, but I thought it would be a good idea to get some experience working with animals. So I got my parents to e-mail local animal charities for me and I got a reply from the Jerry Green Dog Rescue in North Yorkshire. My mum took me for my interview as she was happy to accompany me. When I was accepted I was so excited to volunteer and the first dog I met was Blue who was a lovely greyhound. After that I knew that this was the place for me and I just love it.

When I began volunteering I decided to keep details of every dog that I met. I take a picture of each dog and stick it into my book. I then write about what the dog was like and what I did with them that day. An example is when we first took Inca on a walk and she did the biggest poo I have ever seen! So we then started to call her “‘Inca the Stinker”. I like to add things like if they were funny or even grumpy!

Whilst I have been at Jerry Green Dog Rescue I have learnt that not all dogs are the same and want to play around. I’ve also learnt that not all dogs like each other. I would encourage young people to volunteer as it is a great experience and you get paid in doggy kisses!