Volunteer Spotlight: Shari Eckert

Meet Shari Eckert, a volunteer dog walker at HSMO’s Maryland Heights shelter! Shari began volunteering in February 2022 after she retired.

“I wanted to do something to keep busy and I thought walking dogs would be a great way to get out and stay active,” she says.

“I adopted my dog from HSMO in 2019 so I felt a connection to the [Maryland Heights shelter] when picking a location to volunteer.”

Shari can be found at the shelter on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, though the length of time depends on the number of dogs that can be walked and how many are currently at the shelter.

“Occasionally I will stay longer and work with certain dogs that may need second walks or extra socialization, she says. “I’ve also had the opportunity to attend adoption events throughout the community.

Shari says the most rewarding part of volunteering is seeing the progress dogs make in HSMO’s care and the role she has in that.

“When dogs come in shut down, scared or injured, there is no better feeling than seeing them make progress and eventually finding their forever homes. There is satisfaction in knowing the volunteers play a small part in helping make this happen.”

When thinking about some of her favorite experiences she’s had while volunteering, Shari recalls taking puppies to the CITY SC block party and Blues games.

“Recently, I had the opportunity to take one of the shelter dogs on a field trip to Forest Park for a good, long walk and then to Starbucks for a pup cup,” she says. “I honestly don’t know who had more fun!”

Her advice to anyone on the fence about volunteering?

“Do it! It’s a lot of fun and it feels good knowing you can play a part in getting dogs ready to go to their forever homes. You will be rewarded with puppy cuddles, kisses and tail wags! It’s the best!

Click here to learn more about volunteer opportunities at HSMO!