400 Volunteers Transform Scared Shelter Animals Into Pets

When Bulito arrived at Dakin Humane Society last fall, the black-and-white stray hissed at anyone who came near. Today, he's cuddling in his forever home, thanks to volunteers who refused to give up on him.

April marks National Volunteer Month, and Dakin Humane Society in Springfield, Massachusetts is celebrating the 400-plus people who donate their time to help scared, sick, and abandoned animals find families. Every day, these volunteers walk dogs, socialize cats, foster animals in their homes, and provide the patient care that makes adoption possible.

Bulito needed that patience desperately. After being rescued by the Kitten Street Team, the three-year-old cat arrived in rough shape, requiring significant medical care and a long recovery. But his biggest challenge wasn't physical. Fear had taught him that humans couldn't be trusted.

Volunteers in Dakin's Cat TLC+ program visited Bulito regularly, watching his body language carefully and using gentle techniques like slow blinking to build trust. Volunteer Marianne remembered their early days together: "What he really wanted was affection. The first couple of people who worked with him got hissed at."

The volunteers left detailed notes about Bulito's favorite treats and comfort levels so every caregiver could help him feel safe. Slowly, the frightened stray transformed into an affectionate companion who would jump into laps and nuzzle against volunteers' necks.

Just one day after becoming available for adoption, Bulito found his family.

Bella's story shows the same dedication. The six-month-old mixed-breed dog arrived at Dakin so overwhelmed by shelter life that she showed frantic behavior in her kennel. Volunteers created thoughtful schedules to give her extra one-on-one time, while others covered the remaining dogs so no animal went without attention.

They took Bella on long walks along the Connecticut River and through Forest Park, noting her preferences: she loved birdwatching, enjoyed fetch, and would happily take medicine covered in spray cheese. By July, she was adopted into a loving home, her anxiety completely gone.

Sunny's Take

Foster volunteers Marcy and Jim have cared for nearly 40 cats in their home. When they agreed to temporarily foster Pretty Kitty, a beautiful ginger cat needing medication, something magical happened before they even left the shelter.

A family arrived and fell in love immediately. The seven-year-old daughter knew instantly that Pretty Kitty was her cat. After a few days of treatment with Marcy and Jim, Pretty Kitty joined her new family, where she now follows the little girl everywhere like a shadow.

The young girl drew a picture of Pretty Kitty with a big heart in the middle and thanked Marcy for taking care of her new best friend.

Hundreds of animals arrive at Dakin each year facing uncertain futures, and hundreds of volunteers show up to give them hope, healing, and homes.