Pat Detrie
“Come to the Medical Center any Monday morning at 8 a.m. and I will be there! After a morning of walks, socializing, and sometimes just some TLC, you will know you are needed, and you are making a positive impact on an animal’s life.”
Pat Detrie and her husband, Russell, started volunteering with PAWS in 2016 after losing their beloved dog.
“We were looking for something that we could do together, and volunteering at a shelter was a perfect place to help us recover. We selected PAWS because of their reputation for making a big impact on animals' lives in Chicago.”
Pat works as a Level 3 (L3) volunteer at the Medical Center. She also volunteers at special events and at off-site adoption events.
“I get lots of dog love at the Medical Center, but I also enjoy recognizing the generous donations of so many people at the special events. Whether it's the Fur Ball, the 5K, or a donor tour, there are a lot of great events to choose from.”
Pat continues to be amazed by the expansive care and services PAWS provides cats and dogs.
“PAWS takes on medical issues no other shelters are able to. They not only care for dogs and cats in their program, but they help the community care for their own pets. When I arrive at the Medical Center in the morning, there is often a line down the street of residents and their pets coming in for medical care.”
The Medical Center is the first stop for every PAWS pet, and Pat is glad to help during this crucial time.
“Many are healthy and move on to the Adoption Center quickly, however, some are in need of a lot of medical care. It is such a great feeling to see an animal progress each week and look healthier and healthier until they too go off to the Adoption Center!”
For anyone interested in volunteering at PAWS, Pat offers the following advice.
“I would highly recommend L2 and L3 training. The training itself is excellent and it allows you to work with dogs that most need your help. But there are so many volunteer roles. Explore the options and you will find something that you love, is rewarding, and makes a big difference in an animal’s life.”
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