Volunteer spotlight: Maddie

Meet Maddie, one of our volunteer Temporary Boarders. Maddie provides evening and weekend care to Karma, a black labrador currently in training at our Banbury centre. This is her first Dogs for Good dog.

Explain your role at Dogs for Good:

I am a Temporary Boarder for Dogs for Good, which is more specifically known as a Bed and Breakfast Boarder. This role involves looking after Karma in the evenings and weekends whilst she is in training to become an assistance dog, which she does Monday – Friday during the day. 

Why do you volunteer at Dogs for Good?

I volunteer for Dogs for Good because it’s really rewarding to know you’re playing a very small part in your dogs journey to becoming an assistance dog, where they will potentially go on to do amazing things for someone who really needs them. The cuddles and companionship are a really great bonus though! 

What’s the best thing about your role at Dogs for Good?

Obviously the dogs are a huge benefit, however the best thing about my role at Dogs for Good is being able to have a dog in my life around my full-time working commitments. Myself and my housemate, Sam, both work full time during the week, so being able to have Karma’s happy bounciness to brighten up the evenings and weekends allows us to have the best of both worlds. 

What would you say to someone considering volunteering at Dogs for Good?

Absolutely do it! It isn’t always easy, but it might also be one of the most rewarding things you ever do, which is how it is for me. Being able to support Karma while she is training has been a fantastic experience, and has given us just as much as we’ve given to her. Knowing that she’ll go on to do amazing things is the cherry on top.