Yes, great decision. I volunteered at wv from 2006-2011 and the atmosphere was so much different. It was a great volunteer experience because we, the volunteers, could talk to supervisors and managers and advocate for our special dog. I know we all saved dogs from death because we were the ones who knew them best. From what I hear now from friends, the shelter is not the same. I live in palm desert and have volunteered here, but it became too much of a battle. I’m lucky that I have great memories of my first volunteering job with LAAS, it showed me what it could be like. Everyone working together.
So much for "when you know better, you do better." The fact that shelters are regressing is devastating for both the animals and the people like you who have given so much. Thanks, Janet.
So often I see the notes on a dog marked “high FAS” by an employee that then has nearly opposite notes when in the playyard with a volunteer. It’s disheartening and makes me feel, as a volunteer, that my experience with said animal is not being taken into consideration. In my opinion, volunteer observations are not given the consideration and respect they deserve.
Great point, Joselle. There are shelters out there who actually have "euthanasia governance," where staff, veterinarians, and yes, volunteers can weigh in on euthanasia decisions in a structured and informed way. It might not prevent all the killing, but at least there is a decision-making process that's not subject to the whim of a single (and perhaps, biased?) staff member.
I totally get it that people want those cute fluffy puppies and are then surprised what the babies turned into - big quiet workers! I am glad that Astrid’s “friends” were there to help, and that you all came to a smart & peaceful solution!
Yes, great decision. I volunteered at wv from 2006-2011 and the atmosphere was so much different. It was a great volunteer experience because we, the volunteers, could talk to supervisors and managers and advocate for our special dog. I know we all saved dogs from death because we were the ones who knew them best. From what I hear now from friends, the shelter is not the same. I live in palm desert and have volunteered here, but it became too much of a battle. I’m lucky that I have great memories of my first volunteering job with LAAS, it showed me what it could be like. Everyone working together.
So much for "when you know better, you do better." The fact that shelters are regressing is devastating for both the animals and the people like you who have given so much. Thanks, Janet.
So often I see the notes on a dog marked “high FAS” by an employee that then has nearly opposite notes when in the playyard with a volunteer. It’s disheartening and makes me feel, as a volunteer, that my experience with said animal is not being taken into consideration. In my opinion, volunteer observations are not given the consideration and respect they deserve.
Great point, Joselle. There are shelters out there who actually have "euthanasia governance," where staff, veterinarians, and yes, volunteers can weigh in on euthanasia decisions in a structured and informed way. It might not prevent all the killing, but at least there is a decision-making process that's not subject to the whim of a single (and perhaps, biased?) staff member.
Seems a no brainer, yet unachievable in LAAS. We do have one staff member who seems to think it is their duty to kill for space.
YES! 1,000% YES! Thank you Jill. And you absolutely did right by Astrid.
It was a rare act of self-discipline, Martha.
You used excellent judgement. :)
Thanks for the post . Astrid is a beauty and I hope she finds a home . 🐾✌️🐶
I totally get it that people want those cute fluffy puppies and are then surprised what the babies turned into - big quiet workers! I am glad that Astrid’s “friends” were there to help, and that you all came to a smart & peaceful solution!