April 2025 Volunteer of the Month - Anna Kennedy
This month we are choosing to recognize one of our most experienced volunteers. Anna is a wealth of knowledge and helps absolutely everyone be successful in our organization.
“In 2017, I was looking for an organization where I could foster dogs in need and came across Paw Patrol Dayton. My first foster came to me quickly and I was immediately supported, welcomed, and felt such a sense of community. 120 foster dogs later and I am not just a part of Paw Patrol, but Paw Patrol is a part of me.
I enjoy many aspects of volunteering for PPD including fostering, intake, transport, overseeing a team of bio writers, and assisting with fundraising, including big events and our weekly auction. I am also an admin in several of our Facebook groups and help with our shelter software program. I think my favorite thing I do for Paw Patrol (other than fostering) is mentoring and assisting our fosters and adopters. I don't just love dogs; I enjoy people as well and love seeing them succeed. I have made so many new friends.
I have fostered dogs of all ages from every avenue, many with health or behavioral needs. Some have even arrived here very pregnant, and I have whelped several litters in my home. However, my greatest passion has become saving dogs from breeding farms and puppy mills. These dogs have never had a voice, and I get to be their advocate for the first time in their lives. Many would die if it weren't for finding their way into a foster home. I love watching them bloom from terrified and confused, to knowing they are safe and loved. It brings me great joy to watch them run and play on the grass for the first time ever. I get to introduce them to toys, chewies, soft dog beds, and enjoying a loving pet. These are all things they would never have gotten to do if fosters had not opened their home to a dog in need. It is pretty cool!
When I am not doing rescue work, I spend time with my amazing husband of 33 years, 8 adult kids (4 mine & 4 bonus), and 3 (soon to be 5) grandkids. I also dog sit full time in my home and have 3 dogs of my own. I get to spend time with friends occasionally as well. My life is a busy one, but I love it! I don't have time to get bored or feel like I have an empty nest. My neurodivergent brain keeps me on my toes, and I am on a quest for a healthier me. I have a good life and have so much to be grateful for. Paw Patrol has been a big part of who I am for the last 8 years and I am so blessed.”
We are so thankful to have Anna on our team and wish we could clone her! We appreciate you, Anna!
