Saturday, January 21, 2012

"Good Things Come to Those Who Wait."

That statement couldn't be truer. Sometimes it feels like waiting will never end or that what you are waiting  for will never come, but my stubborn, determination to work with a dog rescue has finally paid off. I have emailed countless organisations, both rescues and service dog organisations, in the hopes of being granted the opportunity to volunteer. Some have said flat out no, others have not returned my emails and others have told me I could help by doing door to door fundraising. None of these answers, or lack thereof, were very satisfying; not even close. Most recently, I had an organisation tell me that I could hand out posters at events. I'm sure that is a very necessary job, but I was looking for something that was a challenge and put my dog skills to the test. I also wanted to learn about dog training.
Well, my wait is finally over. It's been a year or two in the making, but the opportunities I have been granted with this rescue are beyond my greatest hopes. It's been in the works for about a week now, but I didn't want to say anything until things were a bit more permanent. I was worried I would jinx it with my enthusiasm. :)
 Today was the day that solidified my spot as a volunteer with the Labrador Rescue of Scotland.
The woman who runs the rescue, we'll call her C, has been so incredibly open minded and willing to allow me to be involved. We had an hour long chat on the phone this afternoon, that was followed up by numerous text messages and emails. She's already assigned me a few projects that I started working on today. Some of them have to do with fundraising and others have to do with dog training. I feel very privileged to have found C and to have her embrace me as a whole, capable  person. She's even asked me to draw up some training techniques I would use or exercises that I like for training that she wants to incorporate into her training classes.
My first project is to work with a low vision man and his rescued Labrador on some basic house manners. Apparently, she likes to jump up and so our first task is to teach her to keep all four paws on the floor. I was so shocked and excited that C was actually going to let me be a part of the training process. The man and I are supposed to meet at the beginning of February to discuss what he would like to accomplish with his dog and then to create a plan of attack.
I'm still in awe that this has actually happened. C keeps saying that I am "Heaven sent," but I think it's the other way around. :)

11 comments:

The World According to Garth Riley said...

That sounds like a wonderful opportunity and perfect for you! We are very happy for you!

Frankie Furter and Ernie said...

THAT would be a grrrreat way to start. Congratulations for being Patient and Persistent. BRAVO!

Dachshund Nola said...

Congrats! You'll do great
Dachshund Nola

pattib said...

Oh Jess, that is SO great! Can't wait to hear of your training adventures, I hope you share.

Two French Bulldogs said...

Sounds wonderful
Benny & Lily

Scrappy Angel said...

It will definitely be a two way street! Very cool that this oppertunity came your way! I am guessing it will be very rewarding! Look forward to hearing all about it here!

Angels Amber and Max DaWeenie and Mom said...

Congratulations, Jess. This is going to be a wonderful opportunity for you. You'll be doing something that you've really wanted to do. We're very happy for you.

Ziggy Stardust said...

That is wonderful!

licks and sniffs Sasha

The Ladies of Beaglebratz Manor said...

Mom Kim here - using one of the Beaglebratz fav words - WOWZERZ! This is definitely one of those win-win-win situations. The rescue wins because they get a new volunteer who really wants to help in whatever way you can. The man who owns the dog who lacks the finer points of house manners is going to get a better behaved dog. And you are a big winner in a couple ways at least - first, there is someone out there in the world who realizes what a valuable asset you can be and you get to realize one of your big dreams.

I tried to foster for a Beagle rescue a few years ago - the rescue had run low on people wanting to be fosters and they had a dog who desperately needed a foster home - I offered and told them about my Beagles, raising them from puppies, going through classes and they were now therapy dogs - they turned me down without even checking out my home - I have a nice back yard which is fenced - a fairly strict requirement for Beagles but that didn't help my case any. I had told them that I had to rely on public transportation due to a visual disturbance - I guess I should have kept my mouth shut.

Jen said...

Waw Jes, I'm so happy for you! That sounds absolutely perfect. I can't wait to hear all about it. They are very lucky to have you, and i'm sure other great things will come from becoming a volunteer.
Its great when persistence pays off.

Brooke, Cessna, Canyon & Rogue said...

This is such wonderful news Jess! You'll have to keep us all posted on the things you do and some of the wonderful canines you meet.