Volunteers are the backbone of home
Richard Cutcher • Published 9 Jun 2012 16:00
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VOLUNTEERS have expressed the satisfaction gained from lending a hand at Battersea Old Windsor.
The dogs and cats rescue home, off Priest Hill, employs full-time staff to care for and train its residents, but 150 volunteers contribute around four hours a week to help get the animals out and about.
Mick O'Neill, 69, is from Ashford and worked with dogs in the Metropolitan Police. He has lent his time to the home for 11 years and in National Volunteers' Week this week, he said: "It keeps me fit and it is cheaper than joining the gym. Everyone is friendly and volunteers are made to feel very welcome by staff."
Volunteers do not need to have professional dog experience and get training from staff.
Jodie Hale, 24, is from Staines and began helping out when she moved into a new flat and could not keep a dog of her own.
Miss Hale said: "We help train them so they have the basics and hopefully they will have a better chance of getting a home. It is such beautiful surroundings in Old Windsor it is nice to walk around here."
For information on how to volunteer at Battersea Old Windsor, visit www.battersea.org.uk
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