Volunteer Spotlight: Kelsey Caviezel
Meet Kelsey Caviezel! Drawing upon her expertise in dog behavior and psychology, Kelsey is eager to contribute to her volunteer role at the shelter by assisting dogs in finding loving homes.
Q. What is your role at the shelter?
A. I am a new volunteer who is interested in dog walking and dog enrichment roles, but I am happy to support the shelter’s staff in any department!
Q. How long have you been a volunteer?
A. I have been a volunteer long enough to complete a few training sessions! I am looking forward to learning more and growing to support the shelter’s staff.
Q. What does a day in your life at the shelter look like?
A. The last time I was at the shelter, I washed dishes and saw tons of adorable kittens! I also had the opportunity to learn more about the day-to-day operations of the shelter.
Q. What made you want to volunteer at the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County?
A. I am a dog trainer who specializes in behavior. My long-term goal is to rehabilitate shelter dogs to help them find a loving home. The Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County seems like a great place to start!
Q. If you could give one piece of advice about volunteering with the Humane Society for Tacoma & Pierce County, what would it be?
A. We Make Happy Happen for pets in need. Be patient, be kind, and do what you can to keep our furry (and scaly) friends comfortable.
Q. Why are you so passionate about the work we do?
A. I used to work in a large boarding facility and collaborated with local rescues when they ran out of space. Not only have I studied dog behavior and psychology, but I have also seen firsthand the effects of weeks or months in a kennel on a dog’s mental well-being. I want to do what I can to help them.
Q. Any special stories you’d like to share?
A. I always fall in love with dogs with behavior challenges. I can’t tell you how rewarding it is for me to help a frightened, shut-down dog feel comfortable enough to do something as simple as eating in front of me. Sometimes, it’s just that first step out of the kennel! I remember feeding a Mastiff named Stella by hand. Even then, she only wanted the dark-colored heart-shaped pieces of kibble from her bowl! I also remember her first few shaky-legged walks to the potty yard. It took us a while, but we went at her pace, and she was so brave. Watching her become more comfortable was a sigh of relief.
Interested in becoming a volunteer or foster? Check out our opportunities.
