Some volunteers bring joy to the animals they walk. Others bring comfort, routine and reassurance. But every so often, a volunteer brings something that changes a life forever. For senior dog Bernie, who spent nearly two years in our care waiting for the right family, that Sunshine Maker was Janette.
“There is an absolute joy in being there for these animals,” Janette shared, a joy that led her to Animal League America shortly after the pandemic, when she was searching for meaningful ways to give back. A lifelong dog lover, she had adopted her first dog from us years ago, but it was walking dogs at our Port Washington campus that filled a space in her heart. She quickly became deeply committed to making each dog feel seen and loved.
Over time, she formed an unbreakable bond with Bernie. Their routine walks turned into cherished hours together: exploring quiet neighborhoods, relaxing in her car with toys, and enjoying the simple comfort of companionship. “I adored that animal,” she said. “I wanted to do everything I could to make his life better while he waited for a home.”
Knowing that Bernie was a senior dog, and understanding the concerns adopters sometimes have about medical costs, Janette searched for a way to remove any barrier that might stand in his path. Her solution was extraordinary: she donated $10,000 to cover Bernie’s adoption fee and ongoing medical care, ensuring his future family could welcome him without hesitation.
That act of generosity opened the door to exactly the future she hoped for. Within weeks, Bernie was adopted (see below). Today, Bernie is thriving, cherished and finally home. Janette continues to volunteer with our canines, even though it comes with the heartbreak of letting them go. “You help them, but they help you, too.”
Janette’s gift transformed Bernie’s life. Her generosity — and that of supporters like her — gives us the ability to provide the same level of care, patience and love to every animal who needs us.