Submnitted by the Animal Protection Society – Friday Harbor

Please join us in celebrating Richard Bell, honored as Volunteer of the Month for September 2024 by Animal Protection Society – Friday Harbor!

Bell has gained a reputation as a sweet and consistent volunteer among the animal shelter’s staff members. “Richard has been a solid and dependable dog walker for years now,” says Brittney Ducote, an animal care team member. “He’s very respectful of the dogs’ wishes.

“If a dog doesn’t want to walk or play, he’s happy just hanging out and keeping them company,” Ducote says. “He never pushes them beyond their comfort level and always has something positive to say about their personalities.”

One of the shelter’s current dogs, Rhea, stands out as one of Bell’s favorite walking companions. “She’s friendly, even-tempered and food-motivated, so she can be trained easily. I’m surprised she hasn’t been adopted.”

After losing a pet, the life-long dog owner hesitated to adopt another dog and thought that volunteering at the shelter would be a worthwhile way to “get his dog fixes.”

One of Bell’s favorite moments since then is getting to know Libby, a current resident. “When I first met Libby, signs said ‘No men.’ She wasn’t open to being walked by a man. I eventually gained her trust. Seeing Libby overcome her fear of men is rewarding.”

Bell says it’s also rewarding to see nervous dogs brighten up after adjusting to their temporary home. “And then seeing them enrich somebody’s life — it’s all good.”

In tough situations, Richard is calm, cool and collected, says Cayla Knisley, an animal care team member. “He makes sure he does all he can to keep the animals’ safety the priority. That is a great volunteer and an even better human.”

Richard, thank you so much for generously sharing your time, experience and empathy with the APS dogs. We appreciate you immensely!