Kat Bush
“We adopted a dog from PAWS in October 2020 during the pandemic. Seeing my daughter bonding and caring for the dog made me feel really grateful for PAWS, and I decided I wanted to give back for all we have gotten,” said Kat Bush.
Kat Bush started volunteering with PAWS Chicago in March 2021 and primarily works at the Medical Center with dogs.
“I enjoy any opportunity to spend time with dogs who are struggling and help give them the extra attention and time they need. There's a huge sense of accomplishment when a dog who is anxious comes out of their kennel for a walk, or a dog with a ton of energy gets to channel that energy into running around in a play space with me,” said Kat.
In addition to spending time at the Medical Center, Kat has also relished the opportunity to branch out and volunteer with other PAWS programs.
“I have also supported Community Outreach events. Knowing the benefits that caring for pets has for people's mental and physical health, it's important to me that PAWS provides additional services, like spay/neuter, vaccination clinics and pet food pantry, in communities with fewer resources.”
Kat sees her work at PAWS as part of something bigger.
“PAWS Chicago’s No Kill mission is important to me because it speaks to humans' responsibility to care for animals and to see animals and nature as interconnected to us.”
Thinking about becoming a PAWS volunteer like Kat?
“When you are working with the dogs and cats, you are teaching them how to become part of a family. Every little bit you do and every hour that you give makes a big difference.”