Volunteer Spotlight: Harlene Wasserman

A love of dogs and HSMO is deeply engrained in Harlene Wasserman’s DNA. She grew up with dogs in her family, and many of them were adopted from HSMO. She knew that at some point in her life, she wanted to volunteer with the organization, and when her schedule allowed, she signed up to be a dog walker. For 11 years, she has been walking dogs on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons, and she helps on other days when she can, too.

When she arrives at HSMO’s Maryland Heights shelter for a shift, her first order of business is getting the priority dogs out for their first walk. She and the other walkers work through their list, making sure all dogs get to spend as much time out of their kennels as possible.

“Some dogs are more challenging than others just because they may be more excited to get out, but I don’t mind,” she says. “I always feel I get a good workout from walking dogs. It is always wonderful to have other walkers there to help so that all the dogs can have time for a nice walk.”

Harlene says she finds it rewarding knowing the dogs are excited to see her, and she finds herself coming up with nicknames for them as she gets to know them.

“I enjoy seeing how the shy dogs slowly warm up and adventure outside,” she says. “Even the puppies can be a little uncertain of all the noises outside and just want to be held. The dogs remind me of the young kids I work with, because they all have unique personalities that you get to know and lots of energy as well!”

When it comes to favorite experiences she’s had in her decade-plus of volunteering, Harlene notes that a lot of them are simply the sweet, everyday moments like the kisses she receives when she gets a dog out.

“I also carry snacks in my pockets and always get a kick out of the dogs who realize they should stick their nose in my pocket to get a snack!”

Like many animal lovers who give their time to local shelters, Harlene also feels a deep sense of camaraderie with her fellow volunteers.

“I have new friends of various ages because we all walk together on Saturday afternoon. We care about each other and now do activities outside of HSMO. I never would have expected this to happen, but it is great.”

She advises anyone considering volunteering at HSMO to give it a try.

“You will not realize how enjoyable, rewarding and how much you are appreciated and needed until you start. Volunteering will be an important part of your schedule, and you will meet dedicated volunteers and staff at HSMO. Plus, it is great exercise!”

Learn more about volunteering by clicking here.