In addition to the many volunteers we are fortunate to know, resident or staying for long periods in Chiang Mai, there are people who visit Thailand on their way around the world or just on a short holiday and take time out to visit the shelter.

Some of these find they are drawn to stay longer and indeed many visitors return time and again, finding reward in the volunteer work that Care for Dogs depends on.

A fine example of this is Irene.

Accompanying her husband on business in South East Asia, she occupied herself by visiting the shelter daily and providing the resident dogs so much more than just a greeting and a pat on the head.

She could be found sitting amongst the various packs or groups of dogs at their hang-outs around the shelter, cuddling, stroking and chatting with the increasingly friendly dogs, that otherwise would be laying asleep, bored & remaining anti-socialised.

You can tell when you first meet Irene that her heart is in her work. Her smile is warm and honest and her eyes tell you that she is sincere. She speaks to the dogs in her soft calming voice and gives them reassurance that she is not about to hurt of abuse them.

Although she invariably entered the shelter with pockets stuffed with chews and nibbles for her playmates, they were always ready to give her hugs, licks and attention that only people who get close to animals will know.

Never mind the weather, Irene would be at the shelter during her stay in Chiang Mai, muddy trousers and shirt but never mind, that goes with the territory, Irene was happy to be helping the dogs during their stay at the shelter, hoping to be adopted and find a new home.

For volunteers like Irene, the activity at the shelter is never the same 2 days in a row.

This is what Irene says about volunteering with Care for Dogs:

I learned a lot about the power of love and congratulate all the long term volunteers on their dedication and unselfish caring for dogs.

I recommend anyone who loves animals to visit the centre, I know I definitely will next time I am in Chiang Mai. [Read the full post here ...]

One day there could be newly dumped puppies who should rightly be with their mother, suckling her milk and another day might involve trying to encourage a 10 year old dog to wag it’s tail after being kept on a short lead, tied at the back of a house.

This is what another volunteer, Kate had to say about her experience with Care for Dogs:

… My personal experience as a volunteer at CARE FOR DOGS has been extremely positive and rewarding. Thanks to the help of well-trained staff, I was able to interact confidently with all the dogs and learn how to care for the wellbeing of our canine friends. It was unbelievable to volunteer in the beautiful sunny countryside of Chiang Mai with fun and interesting like-minded people. [Read the full article here ...]

You can read more feedback from volunteers with Care for Dogs here …