Revamped Volunteer Program at Shelter Draws Raves

One of our first priorities when we began managing the shelter in 2012 was to re-design the Volunteer Program to create more opportunities for members of the community to help us care for the animals in a great welcoming environment. Under the leadership of Volunteer Manager Cindy Shelby, we created new job descriptions, a new orientation program and a renewed commitment to our volunteers.

The new program attracted a lot of interest and we now have more than 100 volunteers who walk dogs, socialize cats, help with events to raise money and awareness, work in the office, keep our old building safe and clean and pitch in wherever needed to support the shelter in many ways. FAAS simply could not maintain the high quality care for Alameda’s homeless animals without them. We salute them and thank them for their dedication and commitment to helping Alameda’s homeless pets as we approach National Volunteer Week April 21 to 27.

If you are interested in becoming a FAAS volunteer, please visit our website at www.AlamedaAnimalShelter.org to find out when the next orientations are and sign up. Junior volunteers (10 – 16 years old) are welcome but must participate with an adult at all times.

Big Dog Adoption Weekend:  Big dogs (50 pounds and over) can be adopted for half-price over the weekend of May 4^th and 5^th.The Alameda Animal Shelter has lots of big loveable dogs waiting for their new homes, and one (or more!) can be yours for only $50 –- a small fee for a big dog. You will also receive a starter kit for your new adopted pal that includes food, toys and other goodies. All adoptions include vaccinations (except rabies), spay/neuter, microchip, a free wellness exam at a participating veterinarian, coupons to local pet stores and more. FAAS requires potential adopters to show proof of home ownership or a copy of your lease indicating you can have pets if you rent.

Youngster shares Easter bounty with shelter animals: On Easter Sunday, four-year-old Jason Goodell couldn’t help but notice that the plastic eggs the Easter Bunny left rattled. It turns out that coins were hidden inside, including whole dollar in a golden egg. When asked what he intended to do with his new found loot, he surprised everyone by saying he wanted to give it to the Animal Shelter so that the dogs and cats could eat. Jason had recently befriended a kitty named Fraidy, a rescue cat, and learned that not all cats and dogs have homes or people to care for them. Jason delivered his money to the Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter and talked to the all the cats in the cages.

Pet Loss Support Group:  On the third Wednesday of each month, FAAS hosts a free Pet Loss Support Group for anyone who wants a safe and comfortable place to grieve the passing of a beloved pet. The Support Group is facilitated by Jill Goodfriend, LCSW  who leads similar groups in other parts of the East Bay. Jill provides information on grieving and offers a compassionate environment for people to share stories of their pets. The next Pet Loss Support Group will be held from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 17^th and it is free. Please call Jill Goodfriend at (510) 393-1359 for more information or to sign up.

Upcoming Events:

April 13^th:  Pet Mobile Adoption at West End Flea Market on the College of Alameda campus from 11am – 2pm.

April 20^th:  Visit the FAAS booth at Earth Day in Washington Park from 10am – 3pm

April 27^th:  Pet Food Pantry from 10am – 12pm in the FAAS parking lot at 1590 Fortmann Way.  Free pet food is available to all qualified low-income residents of Alameda.

April 27^th:  Pet Mobile Adoption at Pet Food Express at 2661 Blandingin the Bridgeside Shopping Centerfrom 11am – 2pm.

Wish List:

Please visit the FAAS Amazon Wish List for some great donation ideas.  Go to: www.amazon.com/gp/wishlist . Type in “Friends of the Alameda Animal Shelter” to go to our Wish List. Monetary donations are always appreciated too !

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