One of the reasons why I decided to volunteer at the Haven Humane Society is their Canine Club Training. Volunteers get a dog assigned to train once a week in a group setting. Prerequisite: Experienced volunteer dog walker.

3 weeks ago I was ready! I signed up for the Canine Club and Zeppelin was my first dog assigned to me. This week will be my fourth week and if Zeppelin is still not adopted I will get another run with that cute male pup.

It is so much fun to get to do that. In my opinion, it isn't just a class for the dogs to make them more adoptable ... it is a class for me too. I learn how to handle and train dogs which also helps me to work with my own dog. Talking about free education ... something I value highly as a volunteer. What a package: Spending time with dogs for as long as I want and at the same time learning more about dog behavior and dog training. Regardless of what I am doing at the Haven Humane Society in Redding, there are always staff members and other more experienced volunteers to ask for support. For me, it does not get any better!

Someone asked me recently if it isn't too hard to get attached to a dog and then not be able to take the pup home. Listen, the dogs are just happy to get out of the kennel and receive some socializing time, training, and lots of love. On top of it, I see the bigger picture. I am a stepping stone on a dog's journey to be more adoptable and ultimately find a forever home.

Christina - Helping Dogs One Paw At A Time