The Animal Care Team is the backbone of Asheville Humane Society. From feeding, cleaning, and monitoring, to bonding, playing, and walking, our Animal Care Team members are essential to keeping our organization afloat. Every Monday we will be highlighting a team member who has shown exceptional care and dedication to the animals in our care and our mission.
Meet Heather
Animal Care Team Member
Heather has been working for Asheville Humane Society since October 2021. Below, she reflects on her time working as an Animal Care Team Member and the importance of advocating for animals.
What does it mean to you to work in animal care?
Working in Animal Care is truly my dream job. I have always
loved animals, and getting to be on the front lines with vulnerable animals who
need our care is something really special. We work with them day in and day out
and get to know their personalities and preferences. We monitor them for
anything concerning medically or behaviorally. Because we spend so much time
with them, we’re often the first line of defense in noticing these little
changes.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your job?
I love being able to make an animal happier. When I see a cat who loves the bed
I gave them or a dog really enjoying a particular toy I picked out, it makes my
day. I love seeing a shy animal come out of their shell, or a nervous animal
starting to feel safe. And of course, seeing an animal find their forever home
is the best feeling!
What are some of the biggest challenges?
It’s always hard to see an animal come in scared or hurt. It’s also hard when
the shelter fills up and there’s less time to give to each animal individually.
It’s definitely a mentally tough but rewarding job!
Have you had an impactful moment that you would like to share?
I remember the first “feral” cat who I started forming a bond with. His name
was Butter Bear and every day he would show a little more interest in me. Over
a couple months time, he trusted me enough to give him his first pet and he
absolutely loved it. He was then able to be adopted out shortly after! I know
how much my own pets mean to me, so helping animals on the path to their own
families keeps me coming back.
Why do you feel so passionately about animals?
I feel like animals are such a positive impact on our lives and we owe it to
them to advocate for them and do what we can to give them the best lives that
they can have. Our animals are there for us on our worst days and love us
through the hardest moments.
What do you want other people to know about your job?
Animal Care is not just petting puppies and kittens! There’s a lot of dishes, laundry, and poop. It takes a LOT of work to keep the shelter running and
Animal Care is really the backbone of a lot of that!
Is there anything else you would like to share?
Judith is a dog I’ve been working with since January and she’s such a loving
girl. We’ve gone hiking together and she was a great companion! She’s got
plenty of energy but also LOVES pets and cuddles. She needs a home!
