June Volunteer of the Month Goes the Extra Mile—Both Literally and Physically

The SPCA of Texas is proud to recognize Steve Flowers as our June Volunteer of the Month!

Since joining our volunteer team in July 2025, Steve quickly has become a familiar and appreciated face at the SPCA of Texas. In less than a year, he has generously contributed more than 200 volunteer hours, dedicating his time and energy to helping some of our most deserving shelter dogs.

If you’ve spent time at the shelter in the mornings, chances are you’ve seen Steve arriving on his bicycle, ready to get to work. Several times each week, he rides to the shelter to support our Animal Care and Behavior teams by running dogs out for playgroups during morning cleaning. Steve’s commitment, reliability, and positive attitude make a meaningful difference not only for staff members, but also for the dogs who eagerly await their time outside.

Steve’s impact extends beyond his regular volunteer shifts. Thanks to his extensive knowledge of the local area, he also helped staff identify the ideal walking route for our Off-Site Walking Program, creating additional opportunities for dogs to enjoy enrichment, exercise, and a break from the shelter environment.

Steve’s dedication has not gone unnoticed by staff members.

“I nominate Biker Steve,” wrote one nominator. “He bikes here, and somehow still has the energy and enthusiasm to walk our dogs with a smile!”

Another nominator echoed those sentiments, writing, “I would like to nominate Biker Steve. He walks the dogs, which is extremely helpful to our Animal Care Services team and is instrumental in getting more dogs walked and reducing their stress.”

For Steve, volunteering is about more than just giving back. It’s also deeply rewarding on a personal level. When asked how volunteering makes him feel, Steve’s answer was simple but heartfelt.

“Uplifting, because it seems like the dogs are always happy to see me.”

His journey to the SPCA of Texas began after the loss of a special canine companion.

“I lost a dear Frenchie, Lola, who belonged to a good friend, but who I cared for almost daily,” Steve shared. “Two months after her passing, I definitely needed to find a way to get my canine fix.”

What started as a way to reconnect with dogs has evolved into a meaningful commitment that benefits countless shelter animals.

Steve also is passionate about helping others understand what volunteering at the SPCA of Texas is really like.

“I wish people knew how well the animals are cared for at the SPCA of Texas, and how it’s a learning experience for volunteers,” he said.

Through his volunteer work, Steve has witnessed firsthand how even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on shelter pets.

“The dogs seem very appreciative of walks, even as short as they are,” he explained.

Those simple moments of enrichment, exercise and human connection can help reduce stress and improve the overall well-being of animals awaiting adoption.

One of Steve’s favorite memories involves a senior dog named Tom. During his first Borrow-a-Buddy experience, Steve took 12-year-old Tom home for a sleepover before bringing him to a mega adoption event in Fort Worth the following morning.

“Tom is currently with an SPCA foster ambassador,” Steve shared proudly.

Like many volunteers, Steve has developed special bonds with some of the dogs he has met along the way. His current favorite is Jax.“He’s always thrilled to see me and is perfectly potty-trained,” Steve said with a laugh. [Jax currently is available for adoption with a FREE adoption fee.]

Whether he’s biking to the shelter before most people have finished their morning coffee, helping dogs get outside for much-needed exercise, participating in enrichment programs, or simply offering a friendly face and gentle encouragement, Steve embodies the spirit of volunteerism that makes the SPCA of Texas so special.

Volunteers like Steve help create brighter days for shelter animals while strengthening the SPCA of Texas’ ability to serve pets and people throughout North Texas. His enthusiasm, compassion and dedication inspire staff members and fellow volunteers alike.

Thank you, Steve, for your more than 200 hours of service, your unwavering commitment to our animals, and your willingness to go the extra mile, sometimes quite literally on two wheels. We are grateful to have you as part of the SPCA of Texas family and are proud to celebrate you as our June Volunteer of the Month.