SPCA of Texas October Volunteer of the Month is a Borrow A Buddy Champion

The SPCA of Texas is thrilled to honor Blake Jimenez as our October Volunteer of the Month! Since joining us in May, Blake has become an invaluable part of Team Purple, dedicating nearly 80 hours of service in just a few short months, all while also opening his home as a foster parent. Blake’s energy, compassion, and commitment to animals embody the heart of our mission, and we couldn’t be prouder to celebrate him.

Blake’s volunteer journey began shortly after he moved from New York to Dallas this past spring. “When I moved to Dallas, I was looking for a hobby,” he recalls. “Once I looked into all the different volunteer opportunities at the SPCA of Texas, I knew it was something I wanted to be part of.” What started as a way to fill his time quickly turned into a meaningful passion for helping animals in need.

Since his very first day, Blake has jumped right in, completing every level of dog training, spending countless lunch breaks walking pups, and regularly attending offsite adoption events. He’s currently an adoption ambassador for Heidi, a sweet senior dog he’s been fostering and advocating for, tirelessly. By giving Heidi a cozy home and helping her meet potential adopters, Blake has shown just how powerful fostering can be in transforming an animal’s life.

Blake’s dedication doesn’t stop there. SPCA of Texas staff members note that he “goes above and beyond—often stepping in before being asked.” He spends time with dogs in the adoption lobby, helping them relax and show off their best selves to visitors. When Blake notices a stressed dog in the holding area, he takes them out to the play yard for a breather. These small acts of kindness add up, creating huge differences for the animals in our care.

When asked about his favorite memory at the SPCA of Texas, Blake lights up recalling the first time he participated in our Borrow-a-Buddy program. “I took my first Borrow-A-Buddy, Diya, to a mobile adoption event. She was adopted almost immediately,” he shares. “The best part was not only advocating for her but also meeting her adopters and knowing she was going into a loving home.”

It’s moments like these that remind us why volunteers like Blake are so essential to what we do. They help bridge the gap between shelter life and loving homes.

One of Blake’s favorite projects these days is helping Alexa find a home. She’s an older pup who has known the joy of a home, so Blake works closely with her to make sure she knows how much she is loved and cared for at the shelter.

Blake’s compassion extends beyond the shelter walls. He’s spent several weekends fostering Alexa, the pup featured in his Volunteer of the Month photo. “She loves a cozy spot on a comfy bed, a little fun with squeaky toys, and plenty of pets and kisses,” Blake says fondly. “Alexa is the perfect mix of relaxed and playful. She may be a senior pup, but she’s still got plenty of puppy energy.” From car rides to outdoor adventures, Alexa’s zest for life shines even brighter thanks to Blake’s care and attention.

For Blake, volunteering is more than just an act of service—it’s a grounding, fulfilling experience. “Volunteering at the animal shelter is my favorite part of the day,” he says. “There’s something incredibly special about being able to show up for these dogs exactly as they are. If they’re full of energy, we head to the play yard. If they’re shy, I’ll sit quietly and just talk to them.”

Blake adds that these moments have taught him to appreciate life’s little joys—the wag of a tail, the excitement of a squeaky toy, the quiet comfort of companionship.

Blake also loves spreading the word about the Borrow A Buddy program, which lets people take a dog out for a few hours or a weekend. “It’s a much smaller commitment than fostering but equally beneficial and rewarding,” he explains. “Next time you’re going for a stroll in the park, pick up a furry friend and bring them along for the ride.”

When asked about the impact he’s witnessed through his volunteer work, Blake reflects thoughtfully: “I’ve seen the transformation in shy and anxious dogs who gradually come out of their shells. I’ve seen them develop trust, return from breaks calmer and happier, and show their best selves to potential adopters.” It’s a testament to how consistent care, patience, and kindness can change an animal’s entire outlook—and their chances at finding a loving family.

The SPCA of Texas is deeply grateful for Blake’s extraordinary service, empathy, and enthusiasm. Whether he’s helping at adoption events, fostering seniors, or comforting nervous pups, Blake brings warmth and heart to everything he does. Thank you, Blake, for being a shining example of what it means to make a difference—one tail wag at a time.