A KIND-HEARTED volunteer at a local animal shelter has told of her joy after fulfilling her “life-long dream” of being involved in animal rescue.
Julie MacGilp has been volunteering at the Scottish SPCA’s Dumbarton centre for 11 years now after giving up care work due to several long-term health conditions.
As a child, she grew up with various pets including some that her family rescued after they were abandoned.
Over the years, Julie has volunteered at a country park, stables, and farms, happily surrounded by animals however, her main goal was always to be involved in animal rescue.
Julie said: “The feelings that overcome me when I'm volunteering for the Scottish SPCA are uplifting, and enrich my life.
“I adore being around animals therefore just walking through the gates, and hearing the dogs starts those incredible natural 'feel good' chemicals bubbling.
“I have several long-term health issues and unfortunately had to give up care work, however volunteering at the centre keeps me busy and active, as well as helping emotionally.
“I believe it helps with my illnesses, strengthening my mind and body.
“I love the way the staff are so grateful, welcoming and make me feel as though I am appreciated. We have a good giggle together too!
“I have volunteered for 11 years now, and hope to still be at the age of 90. There are countless feelings I have had, from the lows, anger, and tears hearing some stories about how horrendous humans can be, to the happiest highs of the 'forever home' stories.
“I think the team at the centre are all animal rescuer superheroes! They work so hard, and I'm in awe of the job that they do.”
Julie volunteers alongside lifelong animal lover Molly who started at the centre in January 2022.
Molly initially began volunteering with her occupational therapist who came along to support her.
Since then her confidence has grown.
She said: “I’ve learned how to care for the animals safely and confidently and how to follow the daily routines.
“I have also learned about team working and making new friendships at work.
“I have my own dogs and cats at home and volunteering allows me to transfer my animal care skills.
“ I feel I am making a difference to animals that require lots of care and rehabilitation.
“By being a volunteer, I can spend more time socialising the animals and I know the staff really appreciate this as they’re very busy.”
Senior animal care assistant Tracy Green added: “Julie and Molly are regular volunteers at our centre who we love seeing walk in the door each week to give us a helping hand!
"They collectively help us walk and spend time with the dogs, cats, rabbits and guinea pigs and give them that extra TLC that they deserve!
"We are very lucky to have them as part of our team.”
This year marks the 39th anniversary of Volunteers’ Week – which runs from June 1 to 7.
The Scottish SPCA is one of the thousands of charities and voluntary organisations that recognise the contribution volunteers make across the country.
In the first five months of 2023, volunteers have contributed nearly 9,000 hours to the animal rescue charity.
In 2022, 847 volunteers gave 21,695 hours which equalled a £142,007 financial contribution.
Find out more on how you could become a volunteer by visiting the SSPCA’s website HERE.
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