I’ve been volunteering in the kennels since 2017 – woof! I also did a one-week work experience placement in 2012.

On an average day I’ll arrive to the sound of excited woofing, as the doggies are always keen for a W.A.L.K. We always make sure the dogs’ rooms are clean and refreshed with towels and water before taking them out for their p-awesome outings. At the park, we like to run the dogs around, engage with them and give them treats when they sit obediently before crossing the roads. Often, we give some of the dogs a bath if they need some sparkling up, and other times I like to sit with them in their rooms to give some TLC.

It makes me proud knowing that I’m part of a wonderful organisation that devotes itself to strengthening the human-animal bond, helping pet carers and providing excellent pet care. I love coming in every week to spend time with the dogs and my fellow vollies. Volunteering at a place like Lort Smith is a big emotional investment, and sometimes there are challenges, but knowing that everyone there is committed to do the best they can for the animals makes it an inspiring place to be.

Every week there is something special to take with me when I finish volunteering – it always puts a smile on my face. Last week, for example, there were six gorgeous Maltese terrier puppies (only two weeks old!) that had found their way into the loving hands of our staff members. And then it’s the moments when some of our stubborn pooches begin to improve their behaviour, show a little more patience, or bound around with a spirited spring in their steps – so wonderful and rewarding to see.

At home my family own a Jack Russell named Toby. I remember selecting him as a young girl, and he is now 12 years old but still full of life. I know carers are biased about their pets, but Toby is seriously one of the sweetest, loveliest and most beautiful doggies we know. He needs a partner, though, and we are hoping to get another girl dog to join the family!

I believe it’s the simple things in life that matter most. I love spending time with my family, watching the football (go Richmond!) going out to brunch, or reading a book by the fire during winter. I also adore an active lifestyle, playing tennis, skiing, yoga, hiking and the like.

I am currently studying a Bachelor of Arts (majoring in History and Anthropology), and thinking about progressing my studies in anthropology of development or public health.