SAM Fennell spends about 50 hours a week rescuing dogs and cats from Victorian pounds, taking the unwanted animals to vet check ups, rehab sessions and foster carer homes.
She’s one of hundreds of volunteers at the Victorian Dog Rescue who give their time to help create better outcomes for our canine companions.
“I’m the foster carer coordinator so I make sure everyone has their tags, their leads and everything they need. We help one another out, looking after each others pets when we go away,” she said.
“It gives (the rescue animals) a good second chance of going somewhere and staying there, and really the opportunity to live a proper life.”
The SEEK Volunteer group members provide resources to help care for and rehabilitate dogs that are looking for a ‘forever’ home.
Last week as a small token of appreciation, St Kilda Football Club reached out to say thanks to people like Sam for their dedication to volunteering in the community. The players visited organisations across the bayside, giving them tickets to the round eight match against West Coast.
Take advantage of our Mates Rates offer for round 8 and get 4 tickets for the price of 3*. Click Here to purchase now.
Among the many dogs Sam cares for is Shad, a short-term Mornington canine resident who, like some of St Kilda’s injured players, is undertaking rehab.
“Shad came from Cobram. He did his eight days in the pound and then when that was up we came and picked him up. He needed surgery because his back leg was longer than it should have been,” she said.
“I’ve had him for four months and when he’s finished he’s rehab he will be ready to be re-homed. He needs to build up his muscle because he’s never used that leg, his front legs have supported all of his weight and then he’ll go to his forever home.
“We keep in contact with a lot of our dog adopters, just to let us know how they’re going.”
Shad will be available for adoption in about a months’ time and anyone interested in adopting him can find out more information by heading to www.vicdogrescue.com.au.
Victorian Dog Rescue is also looking for more volunteer foster carers, so if you think you can donate your time to the organisation please contact rescue@victoriandogrescue.org.au.
“They’re just so forgiving and loving, and some of them are terribly abused so they make a really quick turn around and give those that adopt them so much joy. Even when we foster care for a short time you get a little bit attached because the animals are just so thankful.”
Become a member. Click HERE or call 1300 GO SAINTS.
