2020 pet magazine

2020 PET MAGAZINE LINCOLN DAILY NEWS JANUARY 23, 2020 Page 51 are there any concerns about adding a new pet to the mix. The ultimate goal is that no pet be sent to an unhappy home. Spaying and neutering is a responsible action for pet owners, but it can be costly. An organization in Springfield arranges transportation to the clinic for animals that are in HSLC care and for others not in their care. Spay/neuter clinics are noted on the HSLC website. All volunteer The HSLC is 100 percent managed by volunteers. In its earlier days the society did hire an administrator. One the last administrators was Mary Dowdel, who is now a volunteer. Dowdel volunteers to work in the office and is also committed to the 30 some cats that are currently living at the shelter. Another long-time volunteer is Wanda Stevens, who is the ‘adoption counsellor.’ When someone decides to adopt, they will work with Stevens to assure that they are prepared for the responsibility of pet- ownership. Pet cemetery serves community Volunteers who have been there from the start and part of starting the pet cemetery include Judy Conzo, Dennis Schrader and Marilyn Wheat. Ambassadors Conzo and Wheat go out talk to folks about the cemetery and the services offered at the HSLC. Burbage said that for those who have lost a pet, this is a very important service. The cemetery allows them to have a forever resting place for their pet. Owners always know where their pet lies to rest and can come anytime to pay a visit. Cemetery for people too In addition, the cemetery does allow for human remains, so those who wish, may be laid along-side their pet when their days are done. Volunteers the core of HSLC Burbage said that volunteers are such a vital part of the daily work of the HSLC, and there are a lot of different opportunities. When talking to people about volunteering she often hears comments such as “I can’t volunteer because I would end up taking them all home with me.” Burbage says it really doesn’t end up being that way. When a pet is adopted the volunteers are just as happy as the pet and the new owner. It is not a sad time; it is a time of rejoicing. Burbage said there are tons of opportunities to help that do not include daily care of the pets. Volunteer opportunities: Administration Office Helper Assist with light duties in the office such as filing, shredding old documents, cutting scrap paper, etc. Additional duties include assisting with folding, labeling and sorting bulk mailings. Continued