SPCA of Texas August Volunteer of the Month is the Picture of Dedication

The SPCA of Texas is proud to recognize Xerria Smith as our August Volunteer of the Month! Since joining us in October 2024, Xerria has dedicated more than 300 hours of her time to supporting our animals, staff, and mission. Xerria’s commitment runs deeper than most—she travels an hour and a half each way just to volunteer. That kind of dedication speaks volumes, and every moment she spends here makes a difference.

Xerria has completed every single training we offer, including advanced behavior training that allows her to work with animals who need more individualized attention. Whether it’s lending a hand in adoptions, supporting playgroups, or counseling on some of our staff-only dogs, Xerria’s the kind of volunteer who jumps in wherever she’s needed.

As one staff member wrote, “Xerria has been absolutely SLAYING in adoptions! She’s been a huge lifesaver when we’re short-staffed, and she’s made it her mission to help in as many ways as possible. We’re going to miss her so much when she leaves for college this fall!”

While we’ll be sad to see her head off to the University of Houston soon, we know Xerria will continue her incredible impact wherever she goes, especially as she works toward her dream of becoming a veterinarian.

When asked about her favorite SPCA of Texas memory, Xerria shared that it was meeting the adoption staff and finding where she fit in. “I’ve made so many friends and connections through them,” she said. “It’s always an adventure!”

For her featured animal, Xerria chose Titan, one of our longest-stay residents. Xerria describes him as “super sweet, silly, and smart,” with boundless energy and a heart of gold. Titan would thrive in a home with a big yard or even farmland. “It’s my mission to get him into a home,” Xerria says. “Please consider fostering or adopting him!”

Volunteering at the SPCA of Texas, for Xerria, is pure excitement. “I love taking out the energetic dogs, sitting with the shy dogs, and always helping the adoptions team,” she said. While the work can be hard, the rewards are worth it. “You see a lot of sad cases come in, but you also get to see their progress and transformation to adoption.”

That transformation is what fuels her. Xerria has witnessed dogs arrive scared, timid, and unsure. And she’s been part of the journey that turns them into joyful, confident pets ready for loving homes.

The SPCA of Texas is deeply grateful for the time, energy, and compassion that Xerria has given to our organization. Volunteers like her make it possible for us to care for animals in need, find loving homes, and spread awareness about the importance of adoption and fostering.

Congratulations, Xerria, and thank you for showing us what dedication, heart, and determination look like. We’ll miss you dearly, but we’re excited to see all the lives you’ll touch in the future.