Volunteer Spotlight: Erin Kahle
Q. What is your favorite part of volunteering?
A. In short, I enjoy spending time with dogs. It’s also nice being near people who love dogs just as much as I do. I have volunteered with so many different organizations, and Best Friends has been the most rewarding experience. Every little thing I do - walking dogs, refilling water bowls, cleaning kennels, handing out flyers, and facilitating meet and greets with potential adopters - feels like I am making a difference.
Q. Why did you start working with Best Friends?
A. I lost my best (furry) friend, Daphne, a few years ago, and I remember my sister had told me about the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah. I always thought it would be a wonderful experience to visit and volunteer there, but I haven’t been able to do that yet. I was so excited when I learned that Best Friends held events in NYC, and I knew I had to get involved.
Q. Do you have any pets of your own at home?
A. Not right now. I grew up with dogs, and when I graduated college I adopted my own, but I lost her to cancer a few years ago. I know I will adopt another dog in the future, but my heart is still healing.
Q. What do you do for fun outside of volunteering?
A. I dogsit! I’m on a site where people search for sitters who can watch their dogs when they go out of town. I have watched so many different kinds of dogs - big and small, and many with special needs. I give them all my attention while they are missing their family, and they are great company for a grieving heart.
I also volunteer to help clean up local parks and beaches, and I love going to see live music.
Q. Outside of cats and dogs, what is your favorite animal and why?
A. For a long time, I have loved manatees. I think they are the sweetest and most gentle animals, and it looks like it would be fun to spend all your time lazily swimming around in warm water.
Q. What is your favorite holiday?
A. Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. I love spending the day with family, watching the parade on TV and eating.