This past year, my daughter and I discovered something special: volunteering at our local SPCA isn’t just about helping animals—it’s about the connections we make, the joy we share, and the lessons we learn together.

Our Doggy Day Out Adventures

Most of our volunteer time is spent doing what we call “doggy day outs.” We pick up a shelter pup and take them on an adventure they desperately need. Our typical day includes beach walks, forest trails, a mid-day pup cup from Starbucks (the joy on their faces is priceless), and a puppy patty from In-N-Out on the way back to the shelter. Watching these dogs experience the simple pleasure of sand between their paws or the wind in their ears reminds me why this matters so much.

Some days we stay at the shelter, moving from room to room. We play with the animals, take dogs out to the yard, and simply offer love and attention to creatures who need it most. It’s remarkably fulfilling work, even on the days when it’s just sitting quietly with a nervous cat or throwing a ball for an energetic terrier.

The Heartbreak and the Hope

I’ll be honest: volunteering at a shelter isn’t always easy. I have a big heart for rescues, and there are days when I wish I could adopt every single one of them. They all deserve good homes with people who will love them and give them their forever home. Walking away is sometimes the hardest part.

But here’s the thing—we’ve already brought three of these deserving animals into our family. My daughter adopted Leonidas, a 4-year-old cat who’s now her constant companion. My son adopted Alfina when she was just a kitten, and watching their bond grow has been beautiful. And this past Easter, I adopted Odin, a 110-pound “puppy” who was 10 months old and full of love. Each one of them brings so much joy to our family. They’re not just pets—they’re family members.

Why Volunteering at Your Local SPCA Matters

Animal shelters across the country care for approximately 6.3 million companion animals every year, and they rely heavily on volunteers to give these animals the attention, socialization, and care they need while waiting for their forever homes. Research shows that animals who receive regular human interaction and enrichment activities—like our doggy day outs—are more likely to be adopted because they’re better socialized and less stressed.

But the benefits aren’t just for the animals. Studies have found that volunteering, particularly with animals, can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase feelings of happiness and purpose. My daughter and I have certainly felt this. Our volunteer days have become something we both look forward to, a chance to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with what matters.

An Invitation to Get Involved

If you’re looking for a volunteer opportunity that’s genuinely rewarding, I strongly recommend your local SPCA or animal shelter. Whether you can commit to weekly shifts or just occasional doggy day outs, every bit helps. You don’t need special skills—just a love for animals and a few hours to spare.

The animals are waiting. They’re hoping for forever homes, but in the meantime, they need people who care. People like you.

Who knows? You might even find your next family member, just like we did. Three times over.

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To learn more about volunteer opportunities at the Monterey County SPCA or your local shelter, visit their website or stop by in person. The animals will be glad you did.