Matt Happ

NOVEMBER 2020

Meet Matt, the November Volunteer of the Month! From countless dog walks and socialization to working closely with adopters to send animals home during our virtual adoption program, Matt is always there to help with whatever the dogs at Lincoln Park need! We appreciate everything Matt does for the dogs at PAWS. Read more about Matt and his volunteer journey with PAWS in the Q&A below! 

 

1. How long have you been volunteering with PAWS Chicago? What originally drew you to the organization?

I've been with PAWS for about a year and a half now. I started coming in because I've always wanted dogs and it wasn't the right time in my life to adopt, so I figured this was a great compromise; lots of dog time and helping out a lot of doggos find their own homes until I'm ready to take one home myself.

2. Which PAWS Chicago programs/areas do you volunteer in and why?

I volunteer at LPAC on the dog side of things. I've always loved dogs and cats, but living with a cat who gets a little jealous of other cat smells on me means nothing but dog time for me. I may not always be the best people-person, but I get dogs and dogs seem to get me. Plus when it comes time for me to adopt a dog, I'll know exactly what qualities I'm looking for and how best to take care of them.

3. Do you have a favorite experience or memory from your time volunteering?

Nothing specific, but really anytime I get to show a dog and they just kind of click with the adopters in terms of personality. The big smile on the dog's face and the matching smile (I assume under the mask) on the adopter's face as they interact makes me so glad to send them home to such a good family. That, and anytime a dog offers up some belly rubs :)

4. What motivates you to continue volunteering with PAWS Chicago?

Almost every day when I go in there are new pups in search of homes with their own personalities and quirks. The more I can learn about different dog behaviors and what makes them tick, the more I can help them feel more comfortable at PAWS and highlight what makes them unique during showings.

5. Do you have any advice for someone who is considering becoming a volunteer?

Just go for it. Even if you don't have too much experience with dogs or cats PAWS is a great way to learn about them in a fairly low risk environment. The staff and other volunteers are always willing to help. And let's be real; in this day and age everyone could use a room full of furry love to help destress.