If you’re visiting this website or follow our Facebook page – chances are, you love animals – especially dogs. How could you not? They’re sweet, gentle, and oh so cuddly! And puppies? How could you ever resist?!
When puppies are born or brought into a shelter – it can be a very confusing and difficult time for them. A time when they could really use some extra TLC.
Not only do these doggies need to get through this trying time in their lives – but they also need a bit of extra comfort from some snuggles. So, why not help them out by spending some of your free time giving these puppies some love?
The Humane Society of Tampa Bay is currently looking for a group of volunteers to be puppy snugglers. They are in search of people who would be willing to bond and cuddle with pups that have just gotten out of surgery.
It’s basically the most perfect job ever for dog lovers.
A retired deputy named Jeff Honig has already started his position as a volunteer puppy cuddler and he doesn’t regret his decision at all. He might not be the most likely candidate for the job but he absolutely loves it.
Honig already has four cats of his own and travels a lot, but when he gets a free moment, he heads to the shelter to spend time with these distressed dogs. He enjoys helping soothe them during their tough times.
“It’s very soothing for me, it’s very soothing for them,”says Honig in the video below. “It’s just a great experience.”
After being spayed, neutered, or cared for after an accident – dogs are often confused and scared. That’s why these post-op pups are the ones that need the most attention.
For a frightened dog, just the simple act of cuddling can help them relax and feel comforted. A loving touch from a human can do wonders for these dogs in such a scary and new situation. Calming their nerves and comforting them during these hard times can make a great impact on their behavior and demeanor in the long run.
Normally, the Humane Society is loaded with volunteers during the summer months and during winter breaks because it’s often students that will donate their time. However, during the school year, they often find it difficult to find enough people to help.
When students are busy with class and schoolwork, the Humane Society is always in need of extra helping hands to help out with these fragile dogs.
Honig is well aware of the fact that the Humane Society is short on help at the moment, so even though he has a busy schedule, he tries to donate around 10 hours of his time each week to the shelter. Time very well spent if you ask us!
In addition to cuddling the dogs, Honig also helps out with cleaning and assisting the veterinarians with anything they might need. But, of course, his favorite part is the snuggling and cuddles.
“It makes me emotional just thinking about it,” Humane Society’s Liz McCoy says. “Nothing happy brings animals through our doors. So when volunteers come in to make things better, it’s just a moving thing to be a part of.”
Do you think you could be the perfect person for this job? You can learn more about the ‘dog cuddler position’ in the video below and by visiting the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s website for more information.
When you see Honig bond with these sweet pups in the video below, you’ll want to spend all of your free time doing the same!
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