Get Outside of Yourself: The Allegany Animal Shelter

The local animal shelter, located on 716 Furnace St, Cumberland, Md, is a great place to spend time with cats and dogs that are in need. From a tattered life with experiences we are lucky to not share, these animals are lead by caretakers who are passionate and ready to give their time for their prosperity. While the work is grittier than what you would want to spend your weekend doing, such as cleaning the animal’s cages and other varying lesser fruitful activities, nonetheless, the common goal of helping these cats and pups find a home even if the work you do doesn’t seem to be super related is nothing short of rewarding. Doing work for the animals and making the lives of the employees that show up every day a bit easier, even if it is just for a couple of hours every weekend is a fulfilling experience. 

The animals may seem intimidating, but they all have a softer side to them. Letting your guard down shouldn’t be on the menu, however, as these animals have had a bitter relationship with the world and humans alike. Knowing this, a compassionate side will develop assuredly if this interests you in some fashion. Most of the volunteers’ time spent there was cleaning the cat’s cages and washing anything they can come across. After a couple of hours though, volunteers are lucky enough to go around to each dog and lend them a treat, which the animals show in their own ways they greatly appreciate it. Some may even bark for seconds or thirds!

If the idea of volunteering interests you, here is the place to get started. Make sure to read the guidelines page before you get ahold of the volunteer slip. Volunteers are always needed so be sure to know that your help is always welcome.