Yesterday was easily the most stressful day of volunteering. It all began yesterday morning when I got a call from the hospital- a man had gone into the hospital and was worried sick about his cockapoo dog at home, with no one to feed or let him out. I immediately called one of my most patient and eager volunteers, who drove out to the hospital to get the keys. After receiving a million instructions, the volunteer was on his way to pick up 'Cinders.'

The volunteer had instructions to bring Cinders to the Alderwood convalescent home, where the client's wife lived. Alderwood wouldn't let the dog stay, however, and wanted someone to come get the dog.

That's where I came in, because there was no one else for poor Cinders! After getting the okay from my boyfriend, we were on our way to get Cinders that evening when we both got off work. I thought, at the very least, Cinders will help save on doggy day care for my puppy by being a playmate.

Well, 'Cinders' is indeed a very special love of his owner, as evident by his massive belly. He wasn't a cockapoo, but just a quiet, gray poodle happily eating friend chicken when we arrived. And he was 11, not exactly puppy play material.

Cinders has been very polite, and even out-walked my 4 month old puppy! He's got more energy than I gave him credit for. We're not sure how long Cinders will be staying with us, but his owner was so thankful for our help that we'll gladly take care of this treasured pet!
UPDATE: Cinders is back with his owner, after a weekend with me. I'm glad that I could ease the mind of a senior, that his beloved "baby" was being taken care of while he was hospitalized.
My mother suggested that there should be a program that helps foster pets of the elderly while they are in the hospital. Or even just a kennel that had low-fees for the elderly or people with disabilities. I think this would save a lot of dogs from shelters, if there was the option to be reunited with their owners. I think of my own Grandpa who's first concern with any medical procedure was, will my cats be taken care of? Some people might even refuse needed hospitalization/surgery if their pet is without care.