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EASEL News: October 2020

Volunteer (continued from page 1)

He was there for 10 years until he laughs. “Dog walking, on the other hand, is
learned about EASEL from a friend a big part of who I am – it’s what I like.”
who saw the advertisement in the Mike walks all types of dogs at the shelter,
Times of Trenton. Mike was drawn to but some may get more walking than
EASEL because of this organization’s they expected! “I can take the dog for a
commitment to matching its long walk, and three quarters of the way
volunteers to tasks associated with through the walk, it will look at me like,
their skillset – with the number one ‘Are we done?’” he explains. Mike has
mission being the animals. There are even given some of the more hyperactive
no politics, just a consistent focus dogs at the shelter a run for their money.
on providing the best care for its It all comes down to helping these
dogs and cats and finding homes dogs get used to being around humans,
for them. following commands, and most
“They found a place for me, and importantly, getting them to a point where
it has worked out great,” he explains. they are adopted.
“They have jobs for everyone, and Mike is extremely dedicated to this
they don’t try to make someone into mission. Last year, he spent 11 of his 12
something they’re not.” vacation days from work at the shelter
From electricians to finance last year (using only one to visit NYC). He
professionals to public relations believes his work not only helps the dogs,
specialists, EASEL has matched each but their adopters as well. “You see the
of their volunteers with skills that positive effect the dogs have on the people
help the organization in their own who adopt them,” Mike says.
way. Mike knows this from first-hand For him, being part of the EASEL
experience. Prior to dog walking, organization provides a community with
Mike had tried his hand at Habitat other like-minded individuals. “Whether
for Humanity. you’re a dog or cat person, it feels like every
as part of his community service. “That’s “I was so bad at it that they had to person at EASEL is just as committed, if not
when I went and checked it out, and I got spend an entire day undoing what I did,” he more, than I am.”
involved with that shelter,” he adds.

Pet Adoptions

We are still holding adoptions by appointment once an adopter is approved. You can
fill out an application online by clicking here. A phone interview is conducted prior to
meeting pets.

Additionally, our cat habitats at Petsmart are occupied with cats that the public can
meet. Social distancing practices are in effect when pet meet and greets take place.

CONTACT US

PHONE / WEB ADDRESS ADOPTION CENTER

(609) 883-0540 4 Jake Garzio Drive Everyday: 12 noon - 3 p.m.
info@easelnj.org Ewing, NJ, 08628 Wednesday Evenings:
www.easelnj.org 5-7 p.m.

(Near Trenton-Mercer Airport off I-295,
behind the municipal building.)

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