My Journey With Health And Fitness – Remembering Why I Help Others

It was an absolutely glorious day for a run this morning other than the fact that it was cold. I hit the promenade and it was nice and sunny (did I mention cold?) and the tide was in. What was odd was the fact there were tons of birds on the water. I’m talking mallards, sea ducks, geese and seagulls. I don’t mean there were a few dozen but rather a couple hundred! It was quite the sight to see. And I was thrilled as I was finishing the pier part of the run when a woman who was obviously a runner asked me if the pier was icy during my run. Hmm, getting back to that community again.

Yesterday I had to visit a couple who do to health reasons have to rehome their 2 dogs. These poor dogs have had a very tough life and I know it is going to be a struggle to find them a new home and that home needs to be willing to take both of them as there is no way they can be separated. Because of their past they have a lot of behavioural issues and it will take a patient, tolerant household to make their new home successful.

As I was completing all the questionnaires with one of the owners, we talked a lot about what I do for ElderDog Canada and some of the successes I have had placing dogs. The woman was really surprised at some of the dogs we have been successful with as many would think they were unadoptable. I also explained how I would not rehome her dogs to just anyone who came forward, rather I would seek the best home possible for these girls as I wanted them to enjoy the time they have left. She was so relieved to hear this.

While my trainees were out walking the dogs the woman asked me if I knew how amazing I was. I was a bit taken aback because this is what I do. I like helping people whether it be dog owners or the seniors that I deal with through the telephone tree, volunteer income tax clinic or my caregivers’ support group. I don’t look for accolades or thank yous, I volunteer because it makes me feel better.

Having said that, when you have someone that appreciates what you do, it makes it all worth it. For this woman knowing that I really do care about her as well as her dogs was really important to her. I handled her gently, she loved to chat and I let that just happen, I assured her when I knew she needed it but in the end she felt so less anxious and she thanked me for all the volunteer work I do.

That appreciation just reminds me why I volunteer like I do, I like helping others. No matter how busy I get with the rest of my life I will always find room for those that need me.