Volunteer Spotlight: Bob Blouin

Like many dog walkers at the Humane Society of Missouri, Bob Blouin began volunteering after retiring in 2021. At his daughter-in-law’s suggestion, he contacted HSMO’s volunteer department and inquired about the dog-walking program.

“I thought it would be worth a try, and I haven’t looked back since,” he says.

Bob walks on Wednesday mornings at HSMO’s Maryland Heights shelter, arriving early for the first shift of the day.

“The dogs are usually pretty excited at this hour and come rushing forward to greet me when I pull the door open for them,” he says. “I love taking them into the pen and letting them get their zoomies going. We have a really great group of volunteers on this shift, and I enjoy interacting with them throughout the morning.  Everyone works together so well to ensure every dog is walked.”

For Bob, walking dogs is incredibly rewarding. He says the feeling of contributing to the wellbeing of the dogs, along with getting to know the staff and other volunteers, rounds out the experience for him.

During his shifts, Bob is drawn to the shy, standoffish dogs – ones who aren’t so sure about coming out of their kennels and interacting with a new person.

“I get down to their level while still giving them their space and talking in reassuring tones until they gradually come forward and accept those first pets,” he says. “It is always a feeling of accomplishment when the previously scared puppy allows me to attach my lead to their collar and follows me out the building. I’m not always successful, but when I am, it feels like such a win.”

In addition to walking dogs, Bob also acts as a mentor to new volunteers and helps with the orientation process. He enjoys being a mentor and loves getting to share what he’s learned with new volunteers, imparting what he’s learned and helping them be successful.

For anyone considering volunteering as a dog walker, Bob wholeheartedly recommends it.

“Everyone is so friendly and helpful, which contributes to it being comfortable and welcoming environment,” he says.

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