Spring 2017 | Issue 12 Spring 2016 | Issue 10 | Page 10

Interview with Joan, volunteer
By Leon Veale

of puppies and it’s rewarding to see their
progress but I equally love the older dogs.
The staff are always kind and friendly and
I am always thanked for giving my time.

What is the hardest part?

How long have you been
a volunteer?
I have been here five and a half years now
and I have loved every minute even though
I have seen some sad cases. It helps you
to forget your own problems. When I walk
through the gates it’s as though a load has
been lifted.

What do you do at the Centre?
I spend time socialising the dogs, which
involves walking them, sitting with them
in the warm so they can have quality time
with someone and when we have puppies
I introduce them to new experiences like
different sounds and different people. I also
help to put away all the donated items and
keep the store room tidy, as well as being
a committee member and attending the
‘Friends’ meetings.

What do you most look forward to?
I look forward to greeting all the dogs and
meeting all the new arrivals. I’m very fond
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It’s so sad that cruelty seems relentless
and that there are so many people who
cause harm to animals. It is horrendous
when animals are in such a bad way that
they don’t pull through but at least I know
they were cared for right until the end.
There have been so many positive cases
and it gives me a real buzz to be able to
help them by keeping them company. I’m
a real chatterbox and I think this helps
them to relax around me.
All in all I love it at West Hatch, although
after all this time I still can’t put a harness
on straight!!
If you are interested in volunteering,
please email [e-mail]
for the Animal Centre and westhatchwl@
rspca.org.uk for Wildlife.

Shop news

Book sale
We now have a ‘permanent book sale’
in the rear foyer of our Reception.
Please take time for a rummage
through our range of pre-loved books
for children and adults.
All proceeds come back to the Centre
for the purchase of animal care
textbooks to keep staff up to date on