Photo of two cats at the SPCA
Photo courtesy of Carina Jachlewski
Photo of Carina Jachlewski with Biscuit, dog in photo
Photo courtesy of Carina Jachlewski
BY: CHRIS DOODY, CO-EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
The Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in Cattaraugus County, is a private, non-profit, charity animal shelter and was founded in 1905.
“One of my favorite things to do at the SPCA is to play with all the cats,” said Breanna Andolina, a sophomore psychology major. “I love how they get so excited when they see you and get to play. I also really enjoy walking the dogs around the pond; it’s really nice getting to take a break from school to enjoy nature.”
Andolina said this is a really great opportunity to disengage from your phone and be present in the moment with all the animals.
“Getting to be around these animals creates a sense of home,” said Andolina. “Being around animals has such a warm feeling, and since you can only have them at school under some circumstances this is the perfect chance to feel at home.”
Other students have also found joy volunteering at the SPCA.
“The snow is finally starting to melt, a lot of students typically start coming this time of year to walk the dogs,” said Carina Jachlewski, a sophomore strategic communications major that goes with her two friends about every week to the SPCA. “The stress from school just goes away when you’re playing with the dogs and cats. Even though you’re doing work, it doesn’t feel like it because you’re hanging out with animals, and they’re happy to see you.”
Jachlewski said there are multiple ways that volunteers can help out with other than walking the dogs and playing with cats
“There are different tasks to do everyday,” said Jachlewski. “Sometimes we’re just doing dishes, cleaning the litter boxes, cleaning the food dishes, and a few other tasks.”
Many of the animals in the SPCA arrive with different backstories.
“Today [my friends and I] took two dogs out today,” said Jachlewski. “Their previous owner had passed away and no one was able to take care of them, so the SPCA took them in. When we got there today six great dane puppies had just been born, so there are not only strays there.”
Walking the dogs can be beneficial for both the dogs and the volunteers.
“You can just come and play with cats or walk dogs, and it counts for volunteer hours,” said Jachlewski. “My favorite part of volunteering there is getting to walk all the dogs; however, some of them can pull really hard. It is like a workout sometimes.”
Volunteering at the SPCA is not a strict commitment. Students are free to go whenever their schedules allow.
“I try to go at least once a week,” said Andolina. “It is a good mental reset and creates clarity when my schedule becomes overwhelming.”
Jachlewski and Andolina both said volunteering at the SPCA creates a home-like environment because of the connection they form with the animals.
“Getting to be around these animals creates a sense of home,” said Andolina. “Being around animals has such a warm feeling, and since you can only have them at school under some circumstances this is the perfect chance to feel at home.”
Jachlewski said she encourages everyone to volunteer at the SPCA if they need hours for a club or are just interested.
“When the weather gets warmer, people should come with their friends and take a dog out for a bit and walk with them,” said Jachlewski.
