Long-serving volunteer has helped humans and dogs alike

A national rehoming charity is celebrating one of its longest-serving volunteers whose dedication has transformed the lives of "animals and people alike".

Dogs Trust Manchester welcomed Maureen to its team a decade ago and since then her vital contribution has included giving her time, care and energy to help canines in need, with her compassion and commitment shining through, whether comforting a nervous pup, pitching in with routine tasks such as laundry and cleaning or walking the dogs.

Maureen’s journey to volunteering began during a difficult chapter in her life.

After the passing of her parents, she found herself overwhelmed, as her Saturday morning routine was suddenly left empty.

Then, she came across an advert in a local paper calling for volunteers at the newly opened Dogs Trust Manchester.

It felt like fate was calling.

Maureen said: "I had always been a huge animal lover, especially dogs.

"We had a rescue dog growing up and I always hoped to give back when the time was right."
 
She began volunteering as a Saturday morning Canine Carer.

Dogs Trust added that Maureen is also a regular helping hand at coffee mornings and fundraising events, always ready to lend her warmth and energy to support the cause she cares so deeply about.

She fell in love with her now rescue dog Alfie, a schnauzer-poodle mix, also known as a 'Schnoodle', who had been handed in the day before by owners moving abroad.
 
Sitting quietly in the middle of his kennel, she recalled how Alfie looked straight at her, and something clicked.

She was immediately drawn to him and adopted him, aged five years at the time, and 10 years on the "sprightly 15-year-old" is still stealing socks and hearts.

But it’s not just the four-legged friends that make Maureen's volunteering experience so special; but the sense of community and connection too.

Over the years, she's formed wonderful friendships with fellow volunteers and staff, all brought together by a shared love of dogs.

Lisa Eardley, Dogs Trust Manchester rehoming centre manager, said: "Volunteers like Maureen are at the heart of our work, they make an enormous difference to the lives of animals and people alike.

"It's been wonderful to see how volunteering has brought such joy and purpose back into Maureen's life.

"It's an honour to celebrate her during Volunteers' Week."

Dog's Trust said Maureen’s story was a "shining example of the incredible impact volunteers make, and the healing power of animals and community".

The charity shared Maureen’s story as it marked Volunteers' Week in early June.

To find out more about volunteering at Dogs Trust Manchester visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/manchester