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 Message from Nathan
As some of you may know, I will be leaving the City of Dallas and my last day at DAS will be Tuesday, July 22nd. I first started with the City of Dallas as a volunteer coordinator in September of 2022, and since then it has been an amazing experience to be able to get to know and work with so many of you. Through all of the challenges we have faced together and continue to face, you have helped us both with current operations and helped us improve; with programs and changes such as Daycations, physical kennel trackers to track who has been out of their kennel (a wonderful volunteer idea!), and volunteer-led trainings, just to name a few. Nothing we do would be possible without you.
It has been a pleasure to work with each and every one of you. Working with all of you and seeing your passion and willingness to help has been the best part of working at DAS.
Farwell Breakfast
Please join us on Saturday, July 19 at 10 AM as we say goodbye to Nathan, and thank him for all of his hard work. We’re sending him off with warm wishes (and bagels!) to show our appreciation for everything he’s done.
Calming the Canines Thank You
We owe a huge thank you to all the volunteers who participated in Calming the Canines! Your presence made a world of difference for the shelter dogs, helping ease their stress and anxiety during the fireworks with your calming voices, gentle companionship, and loving care. A special thank you goes out to the volunteers who helped facilitate meet and greets throughout the event. Thanks to your efforts, five dogs were able to go to new homes that night! Your dedication turned a night of loud fireworks into one of peace and new beginnings.
Mission Pawsible
This July, we are launching a not so top secret mission: to have our biggest adoption month ever. You mission, should you choose to accept it, is to spread the word! Stop by the volunteer coordinator desk to grab flyers and post them in high traffic areas. You can also go undercover as an inside agent to snap a spy themed pictures of your favorite pets using our official spy gear. Everyone who adopts during the month of July will receive a free t-shirt and be entered for a chance to win a $100 prize pack!
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Canine Enrichment Opportunity
We’re excited to bring back our Canine Enrichment volunteer opportunity at DAS! Every day from 11 AM to 1 PM, volunteers can help provide in-kennel enrichment to our pups. We have supplies and suggested enrichment items ready to be assembled, but we encourage you to get creative and bring your own projects! This is a great way to make a meaningful impact on our dogs’ well-being while adding some fun to their day. Sign up for your shift now!
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Bio Writing
Interested in making an animal's adoption page stand out? Spend some time with a pet, write a bio, and send it to DASbios@dallas.gov!
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Observation Notes
Please remember to submit notes for dogs after walking or interacting with them. Not sure which dogs need a little extra love and attention? Check in with the volunteer team, we have a list of timid, energetic, long-term residents, and others who could really benefit from some extra time and care.
Sign up for a Dog Walking shift here!
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Donations: Treats, blankets, and towels
We are currently in need of treats, blankets, and towels. All donations can be dropped at the front entry way of the adoption lobby. If you are needing help bringing supplies in, email DASvolunteer@dallas.gov and we can assist.
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Dirty Harnesses, Collars, and Leashes
The harnesses and collars on the blue cart next to the volunteer coordinator desk are clean. If you are returning used harnesses, collars, or leashes, please place them in a pillowcase next to the cart so they can be properly sanitized.
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Volunteer Shout Out!
Every newsletter we try to randomly select an active volunteer to recognize for all of their hard work! This month, we would like to shout out Crystal Budney. Thank you for everything you do as a volunteer.
How long have you been volunteering with DAS?
A little over a year now!
Do you have any pets at home?
Yes, I have two dogs-both rescues. One is a pitty mix name Blue and the other is a little Black lab Malinois mix named Rover.
What is your favorite volunteer position?
Playgroup Runner. Richie and Andrew are great. They’ve taught me so much about handling the more challenging dogs. Not only has it made me more confident handling all kinds of dogs, but it has also made me a better dog mom to my little reactive Malinois at home.
What is your favorite part about volunteering with DAS?
Getting to witness an entire unit of people doing something positive. There’s a lot going on in the world and challenges to overcome at the shelter; but instead of complaining, it’s refreshing to see people rise to the occasion, and do it with such grace. From the staff cleaning the kennels (who are always so kind), to the volunteers advocating for the dogs they love, to the fosters stepping up even when it’s hard, it’s inspiring. I’m honored to be a small part it.
Do you have a favorite DAS story to share?
Meeting my soul dog, Joy, and watching her go from a shut down terrified girl to being happy and loving and eventually finding her perfect family. She’s the one the got away, but I am happy I was able to help her trust again.
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Welcome New Volunteers!
Welcome all of the new volunteers who have joined us since the last newsletter!
Brianna A. | Sabrina B. | Kelsey B. | Garrett H. | Molly H. | Yaritza N. | Kristianna R. | Jasper R. | Kimberly A. | Andrea B. | Melanie J. | Barbara K. | Priscilla P. | Nick P. | Kenia R. | Madison B. | Layla L. | Kayla P. | Hannah S. | Gabriel U. | Paul V. | Yehimi F. | Ana G. | Rachel M. | Yahir S. | Kiandra S. | Chris T. | Vicky A. | Jessica G. | Sharman G. | Kristen M. | Amber Q. | Cristina R. | Kishore B. | Christy G. | Emma H. | Jonathan H. | Salamata L. | Victoria L. | Flo N. | Nicole P. | Justin S. | Steven F. | Genevieve G. | Randol H. | Emeka M. | Vivek R. | Miranda R. |
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