Four dogs to walk, one happy day – how to volunteer at a dog shelter
Dear animal lovers and advocates, today we’re going back to my roots 😊. I love travelling the world, not only to see different countries and cultures, but also to help various animal shelters. Next up is APROP Animal shelter in the small town of Pego in southern Spain. But more on that next time. Today, we’re returning to my hometown, which I regularly visit to see my family and the doggies at the UVP Košice shelter.
A Sunny Saturday at the UVP Košice Shelter
I’m not a fan of winter, to be honest. But I could handle this February weekend quite well, as I spent it at my favourite shelter, UVP in Košice. In my blog post, How to Spend Your Free Time More Meaningfully? Volunteering at a Dog Shelter in Košice, I described how my visits usually go. The dog-walking programme here works well, but it has strict rules.
Dog Walking at the Shelter
To walk dogs at the UVP.sk shelter, you need to obtain a volunteer pass, which includes a photo, name and telephone number of the holder. This pass is non-transferable and allows you to walk one dog per person. The pass is only issued to people over 15 years of age. Dog walking takes place every day from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm (including public holidays and school holidays) for pass holders, while without a pass, it is only possible to walk dogs on weekdays during the same hours. Find out more about dog walking at the shelter on the uvp.sk website.
A Busy Day Full of Volunteers
There were lots of visitors and volunteers at the shelter, which pleased me. It means that people are interested in helping abandoned animals, even in Košice. Despite the cold weather, it was warm in the shelter – not only because of the sunshine, but mainly thanks to the love and care that the doggies receive here.
Four Doggy Personalities at the UVP Shelter
During my visit, I was lucky enough to walk and groom four amazing doggies. Each of them with a unique story, mostly with a tough start, but a positive presence:
Jess the dog, up for adoption – a gorgeous German shepherd lady, with kind and curious eyes, and a soul that has been through more than she ever should have. Jess’s fate started to change for the better with one phone call. The voice on the other end of the line told us about a doggy in bad conditions, without access to walks or natural light. Jess lived without veterinary care, without the love she so deserved.
Everything changed thanks to a perceptive citizen and the shelter staff. Today, Jess receives all the care she needs and has hope for a new home. Walking with her was peaceful, she has a balanced nature, and if she feels unsure, she immediately lies down as a sign of cooperation with humans. She let me groom her nicely, so I could hand her back looking even lovelier than when I picked her up. Maybe Jess is waiting for you…
Chilli, a young dog full of life, found his temporary home at the UVP Košice shelter after being found on Budapeštianska 30 street in Košice. This cheerful fella loves people, games and adventures.
With endless energy and a love of fetching, Chilli would be an ideal companion for active people. Whether it’s hiking, dog sports or just relaxing at home, Chilli adapts. He’s friendly with female dogs, but a bit picky with male dogs. After the walk, he let me groom him. How do you like his haircut from me?
Alan: A tough nut to crack with a soft centre
Alan, found on Krčméryho street in Košice, arrived at the shelter as a frightened and defensive dog. Despite initial health problems and injuries that are still being treated, Alan is gradually revealing his true nature.
On the shelter’s website, Alan is characterised as an introverted dog with a hint of dominance, who needs a patient approach. He’s initially cautious with strangers, but loyal and respectful to those close to him. Alan is moderately active, his energy depends on his mood.
He was absolutely trouble-free and cooperative on the walk with me. He also let me groom him nicely.
Ajax, found on Kurská street in Košice, is a story of transformation. From a shy street dog, he’s become a cheerful and friendly companion.
This young fella is full of life and love. He loves games, especially with soft toys, but his enthusiasm often gets the better of them. But nothing beats his desire for human attention – cuddles and strokes are the greatest reward for him.
Ajax is proof that even an insecure dog can turn into a devoted friend with love and patience. He is now waiting for his real home, where he can fully share his affection and joy of life.
Current Situation at the Shelter
According to the latest information from the UVP Košice shelter, there are currently almost 200 dogs housed here. Although this number changes every day, it remains high. Many of these dogs are longing for a home and love.
Why Visit Shelters? How to Volunteer at a Dog Shelter
Visits to shelters are important for several reasons:
- Help with the socialization of dogs
- Provide dogs with the necessary exercise and stimulation
- Allow potential adopters to get to know the doggies
- Support the work of the shelter and raise awareness of its activities
A Call to Action
If you have the time and inclination, visit your local shelter too. You don’t have to adopt right away – even a short walk or cuddle can brighten a dog’s day and bring you joy and a good feeling.
Conclusion
My February visit to UVP Košice reminded me once again how important it is to support shelters and their residents. Every dog I met had its own story and deserves a chance at a happy life in a loving family.
Be sure to follow Faunastika.com for more stories from shelters and tips on how you can help. Together we can make the lives of these amazing creatures a little better.
With love for animals,
Oli Bartková
