Debbie's story

Debbie Eddie has been a weekend volunteer dog walker at Lincoln Farm since 2002. She saw an article in the local paper about a dog needing a home. As it turned out the dog wasn't the right one, but on that first visit to Lincoln Farm she saw a plea for dog walkers, and has been with us ever since, come rain or shine! "I love it" says Debbie

Debbie is also responsible for undertaking home checks in the Bournemouth and Poole area. "This is an important and very rewarding part of the job for me, especially when you see you have the right dog in the right home." She also gets involved in other events whenever she can, like the dog show, sponsored walks (which she loves as she can be re-united with some old doggy friends and their owners) and collecting food donations. "I am always on the look out for ways in which I can help even more. All my family and friends are aware of the work I do at the sanctuary and are constantly on the look out for blankets, towels, etc which are always in demand."

We asked Debbie why she would recommend being a volunteer. "The dogs are so appreciative and the expressions on their faces are just so amazing. You cannot help but be moved by the helpless position some of the dogs find themselves in, through no fault of their own. These dogs can never have too much time spent on them, they love company and the extra walk or two a day they get form volunteers means so much to them. You will derive a great sense of personal satisfaction too so come and try it out as I did. You won't regret it!"

If you would like to become a volunteer or have more information, click here to e-mail us or contact your local sanctuary.

Sarah Jones is a volunteer who came across the sanctuary whilst walking in the Purbecks, and decided to pop in and have a look around. "I liked the layout of the sanctuary and its rural location nestling in the rolling Purbeck hills. I had always found the staff friendly and helpful when I visited." With the wide range of animals and her love for animals, she decided to devote one day a week to animals. "I worked full-time in an office, but I love animals and wanted to become involved 'hands on'."

The task for Sarah is working mainly with the cats. She assists with the feeds and helps to clean out the cat runs. She also grooms the cats and makes a fuss of them. Occasionally, she helps out with the rabbits, guinea pigs and chickens, along with helping out at the Annual Dog Show.

"I like working with the friendly staff. I enjoy making a fuss of the animals and grooming them and I know this may sound strange but I actually quite enjoy the cleaning! I also find it satisfying that in a small way I contribute to the care and rehoming of animals.