By Danielle Kutchel
Whenever Stephanie Davies leaves the RSPCA’s Burwood shelter for the day, she knows she’s made a positive contribution with her time.
The volunteer of three years is just one of many who keep the RSPCA’s shelters running smoothly.
Ms Davies said she first began volunteering with the animal welfare organisation after her own cat passed away.
Originally she joined the foster care program, which helped her recover from her loss.
Keen to get more involved, she joined up as a volunteer.
Her days are varied, but ultimately her work takes some of the pressure off the paid employees and allows them to get on with the jobs they need to do, she explained.
She might start the day by feeding and cleaning the rabbits and guinea pigs, before feeding the chickens and cleaning the paddocks.
She also takes the cats and rabbits for walks on their harnesses.
“It’s been very fun for me to have a hands-on role. It’s rewarding and the animals make me laugh,” Ms Davies said.
“I go home thinking I’ve done something good with my time.”
Over the years she said she has picked up lots of skills along the way, from general confidence-building to working as part of a team and learning more about animal behaviour.
Of course, working at the RSPCA isn’t without its challenges, and Ms Davies said there have been some sad stories.
“It helps to remember that all of the animals that end up there are the lucky ones,” she said.
“They’ve come to the right place for help, and it only gets better from here.”
To find out more about National Volunteer Week, visit https://www.volunteeringaustralia.org/get-involved/nvw/
