Volunteering at the richmond spca

In the summer of 2025, I started volunteering at the Richmond SPCA. It was something I had always wanted to do, and after completing training over the winter, I was finally ready. I’ve always been an advocate for animals, and I wanted to do something proactive. Taking the step to actually get involved felt amazing, and it’s something I’m very proud of.

Dudley

When I first started, I was so nervous. I was afraid I would do something wrong, but I quickly learned that some things can only be figured out in the moment. The community there is beautiful to see. One day, I was taking a dog named Dudley, who is now adopted, on a walk. He had kennel anxiety, and when I tried to take him back inside, he froze. Instead, we went into a quiet room, and he immediately relaxed and fell asleep right on me. But when it was time to bring him back, he wouldn’t budge. He stalled, laid down, and refused to move. Other volunteers saw me struggling and didn’t hesitate to help. With Dudley being a big dog, it took two other people to gently coax him back.

I try to volunteer at least once a week. I started with dog walking and eventually began doing enrichment activities. During these two‑hour shifts, I spend time with dogs who have kennel anxiety so they can enjoy some peace and quiet—whether that means going on longer walks, doing puzzle games to challenge their minds, playing to release energy, or simply sitting with them in silence.

Darla

Although it can be hard seeing dogs arrive in rough shape, it’s incredibly moving to watch them learn what love feels like. No matter their state, whether that is fearful, shy, energetic, or overwhelmed, they’re all on their own journey toward finding a happy home. One thing that drew me to the Richmond SPCA is that it’s a no‑kill shelter.

Any medical care an animal needs is covered out of pocket. They encourage fostering, field trips, running buddies, and community events to help people meet their potential new best friend.

When I’m with these dogs, I’m helping them but they help me too. The time I spend with them is quiet and grounding, a moment where I don’t have to think about anything except the dog in front of me. These experiences have taught me compassion and shown me how to take action for something I believe in. It’s always bittersweet when I come in for a shift and realize a dog I bonded with is no longer there. But it’s also the best feeling, because it means they found their forever home.