Team Maria - MHS Dog Walker

In the fall of 2009, I ran a 5K race to benefit the Meriden Humane Society ("MHS").  After the race I attended an open house at MHS.  While at the open house I asked if MHS was looking for dog walkers....and the rest is history.  I've been volunteering ever since, walking and caring for the dogs, including:  meet & greet sessions with dogs and potential adopters, dog home visits, cleaning, bathing, feeding, administering medications, etc.

Over the years people have commented, "I could never do what you do....I feel so bad for the dogs....I'd take them all home."  Of course, in reality I cannot take all the dogs home - in fact, I do not have my own dog at home, so the dogs at the shelter I consider "my dogs" while they wait for their furever home.  I'm all about the dogs.  I try to share my positive spirit with the dogs.  Often times, being at the shelter is like summer camp.  The dogs go for walks, play fetch, take a dip in kiddie pool or nearby brook, run under sprinkler, hang out under a tree for belly rubs, go for car rides, field trips, nap in air-conditioned kennel.....repeat.  Volunteering and focusing on the dogs makes a positive difference in their lives.  I've walked many miles with the dogs, which is not only good for the dogs, but good for me too.

The Meriden Humane Society is a non-profit, no-kill animal shelter.  MHS receives no financial assistance from the state and is soley supported by public donations.  The cost to run the shelter is overwhelming.  To give you an idea, in 2018:  (1)  $25,000 average monthly cost to operate the shelter; and (2) $84,000 in veterinary expenses.

I hope you can join me for the 5K event, however if you cannot I would be grateful if you would consider making a small donation to benefit the Meriden Humane Society.

For more information on the Meriden Humane Society visit:  www.meridenhumanesocietyrescue.com

Thank you for supporting the Meriden Humane Society.

Maria