March Volunteer of the Month’s Weekly Visits Make a Huge Impact!

How often do you say in that familiar, moaning voice, “It’s another Monday and I have to go to work?” Pretty often for some of us, I’m sure.

However, numerous employees at the SPCA of Texas look forward to Mondays at the “office,” thanks to the joy and exuberance of one special guy—our March Volunteer of the Month, Stan McDonald!

Stan has been a weekly volunteer since May of 2022. Each Monday he comes in early to clean the cat rooms, then spends the day passing out enrichment goodies to our pups—and sometimes our employees—at both the Dallas Animal Care Center (DACC) and the Russell E. Dealey Animal Rescue Center (DRC).

“Stan is an integral part of our team, bringing dedication and enthusiasm to his role every Monday,” wrote one nominator. “Stan is not only trained in handling our orange dogs but is also DRC approved.

“Every Monday, he arrives with a contagious spirit, ready to distribute enrichment and take our fur babies for walks at the DACC location. Afterwards, he heads down to our DRC location to ensure our furry friends there also receive the care they deserve. I personally look forward to Mondays because I know that Stan is there, ensuring the well-being of our animals at both locations.”

Stan became a volunteer for the SPCA of Texas because of positive encounters he had experienced with the organization. “There was a WFAA-Channel 8 broadcast of a featured dog named ‘Friendly’ in 2002 that we adopted that day,” Stan smiled. “Our second dog, KIP, also came from the SPCA. Based upon these wonderful experiences, it was natural to give back for the joy the SPCA of Texas has given to us.”

The way Stan makes the SPCA of Texas staff members and shelter pets feel is immeasurable. “Stan is here every Monday passing out enrichment for our pups across locations!” wrote one nominator. “He wants to make sure our DRC pups are not forgotten, and our staff members at each location appreciate that dedication so much!”

Stan says volunteering makes him feel “tired, but satisfied with the knowledge I’m providing a small frozen treat (enrichment) to the majority of the dogs along with a few kind words.” He wishes people knew what a positive difference they can make in the lives of these dogs and cats by simply giving their time.”

“Stan shines brightly every time he volunteers!” another nominator wrote. “He exemplifies dedication and compassion by consistently spreading joy and tail wags at DACC and our Rescue Center! Stan delights every doggy resident with treats and toys by passing out enrichment, earning their affection in return.”

One furry guy who holds a special place in Stan’s heart—and vice versa—is Mister Man, who is available for adoption. “Mister Man does look a little scary at first, but he is truly a teddy bear with a gentle nature,” Stan smiled. “I truly believe Mister Man will make a wonderful addition to any family.”

Stan’s favorite experiences as a volunteer at the SPCA of Texas are “every time I hear about one of my buddies getting a forever family. That is why I am here.”

Stan also is proud of the impact he is making on the shelter pets with whom he works. “I see my impact when I introduce myself to a ‘Blue’* dog, and see their fear change into happiness as we build a positive relationship of trust,” he smiled. “There are so many scared or angry dogs that arrive every day, and watching the trained staff work with these dogs so they can trust again is amazing.”

As one nominator wrote, “We’re lucky to have Stan’s dedicated love and weekly visits, making our shelter a happier place, one wag at a time!”

*A Blue dog is one that is extremely fearful and/or timid.