Anna and Mataea have been dedicated volunteers with the Central Alberta Humane Society since the fall, bringing both consistency and enthusiasm to their roles. Anna began volunteering in November after wanting to get involved for some time, sharing that “when I finally had the free time to do it, I started coming regularly. Now it’s something I look forward to every week.” Mataea started a couple of months earlier in September, initially to fill free time, and has since found it to be a meaningful step toward a future career in Veterinary Medicine.

The two met in their first year of college and now volunteer together regularly, making it a core part of their routine. As they put it, “it’s honestly a highlight of both of our weeks.” Together, they spend their time enriching the lives of shelter dogs by getting them outside, offering attention, and helping them feel more comfortable while they wait for their forever homes.

They both value the opportunity to connect with each dog’s unique personality, with Mataea noting her love for “getting to know all the different dogs and their little quirks.” Anna adds that volunteering has been just as impactful for her as it is for the animals, describing the shelter as “such a warm and welcoming environment.”

Outside of volunteering, Anna is completing her Bachelor of Biology at Red Deer Polytechnic while working as an early childhood educator, balancing her passion for learning, caregiving, and animal welfare. Together, Anna and Mataea have become a positive and reliable presence in the shelter, contributing meaningfully to the wellbeing of the dogs in their care.

We are so grateful to Anna and Mataea for the time, care, and compassion they bring to our animals each week. Volunteers like them make a lasting difference in the lives of the pets we serve.