Yesterday, Billy and Jill along with Sue and Jacque, members of our intrepid volunteer grooming crew, visited the Animal Welfare League of Chicago Ridge's intake center on the south side of Chicago. Check out the photos from our visit to AWL and other shelters here.
We worked with Diane and her crew, who are all dedicated and wonderful people. We applaud their hard work and were thrilled to help!
We walked, groomed and pampered dogs who were on their way the the organization's Chicago Ridge facility for adoption. Photographer Sheri Berliner of Petraits Pet Photography was on hand photographing the adoptable animals, which include rabbits, cats and dogs. Sheri's photographs help the AWL publicize the animals.
BEFORE
AFTERVolunteering at a local shelter is a wonderful way to get hands on experience with animals. While you are making them feel good, we guarantee that you won't be able to wipe the smile off your face knowing you brought comfort and love to a homeless animal.
A dog is much more adoptable if she looks like a pet rather than a grubby street dog. Every time we groom a shelter dog, we can see and feel the dog's relief when all the old fur and dirt come off. Moreover, the interaction and attention from a caring human lifts the dog's spirits, making her more attractive to potential adopters. Many of these dogs have never been properly cared for, and a gentle grooming session can gain their trust and keep them relaxed when they meet potential adopters.
You don't need to be a professional groomer to make a difference in a dog's life. Most of our grooming crew are regular people who have learned to bathe and brush the dogs. Everything you need to know to learn to pamper shelter dogs and your pooch, is in our book Happy Dog: Caring For Your Dog's Body, Mind and Spirit.
Start reading and volunteering! If you have any questions, send them in and Billy will answer them.
