Our "Best Friend" Honored Volunteer: Issa Cordova

"Our Best Friends" is a monthly installment to honor just a few of our outstanding Best Friends LA volunteers. This is your chance to get to know some of the shining stars in the Best Friends LA volunteer program! Volunteers are either nominated by Best Friends LA staff or other volunteers in our program. If you would like to volunteer, e-mail the Best Friends LA Volunteer Department at volunteerLA@bestfriends.org. 

Issa Cordova - honored January 2020

Issa tell us..... 

What programs and projects do you volunteer with at Best Friends LA? 

I volunteer with the dog team. I love being an Adventure Buddy- I take dogs at the center out for hikes, to the beach and to the mountains! The dogs at the center get to enjoy exploring and coming out of their shells. I prioritize the dogs who are working through some behavioral challenges and just need a little extra help. I also love to do agility with the dogs in the yard.   

How long have you been a Best Friends LA volunteer? 

Since January 2017! 

Do you have a favorite thing about volunteering with Best Friends LA?  

My favorite experience in volunteering is sharing with the dogs the joys of Mother Nature; having an intimate relationship with them, learning from each other, playing mind games (stimulating each other's minds) with commands and body language, and seeing positive results in the rehabilitation process for both of us, all while we are at our on adventures in the peaceful beauty of Nature.

Do you have any pets? 

I have had and loved pets my whole life.

What others are saying about Issa:

"Issa is fantastic and is always on top of her observation notes for each training session she does with some our dogs that needs extra TLC and manners. She is able to keep us in the loop while still being able to work independently." -Amanda Yocom, Behavior Specialist

"I have been continually impressed with her positive attitude and dedication to the pups." -Janelle Metiva, Behavior Specialist

"She dedicates countless hours to our most behaviorally challenging population, always with a smile. She teaches obedience, agility and takes our pups on many off-site adventures. She captures videos and pictures for marketing too. She has made a big difference in the lives of many dogs and increased their likelihood for success in the home through all her hours of hard work. Dog Team is super grateful for her time and positive influence!" - Leah Lindamood, Manager of Animal Programs