Spotlight on Sandra Crittenden: 22 years of volunteering

When did you join the RSPCA and what motivated you to get involved?

I joined as a volunteer back in March 2002, when I reduced my hours at work. I’d visit the centre after helping my parents with housework and other tasks. I’d been to Southridge before then as I lived locally and I knew that there were lots of lovely dogs there that would benefit from a bit of my time. Once I stopped working altogether, I increased my volunteering to twice a week, and I’ve not looked back since!

To start with, I was worried about walking the dogs that get bad press, such as Staffies, rotties and shepherds, but I soon learnt that they only needed some love and were terrific dogs - and the ones to watch out for were the little dogs!?

What has kept you volunteering for all these years?

It is the dogs that keep me coming back to walk them. It’s wonderful when they’re rehomed, but there are always more needing help.

Do you have any idea how many dogs you’ve walked or seen come and go during your time with the RSPCA?

On average I walk 7 or 8 dogs each session (not counting doubles), so I guess 7,000 - 7,500.

Have you had any favourite dogs you've walked over the years?

Over the years I have encountered many wonderful dogs, some who waited patiently for months for a new home and others who were lucky enough to fly out in a few weeks; there is no rhyme or reason to their length of stay. Then there are the dogs who have suffered such awful cruelty and neglect but have to wait for new homes while the courts decide their fate. Thankfully most are able to go on to find their forever homes, but heartbreakingly some have simply been through too much and others can’t legally be rehomed due to the Dangerous Dogs Act. A few years ago, another volunteer and I bought a flowering cherry tree to plant in memory of the dogs who sadly didn’t get their happy-ever-after.

Prior to volunteering, I had never been close to any German shepherds or rottweilers but I have encountered several over the years that have touched me. One of the first dogs I walked was a huge crossbreed about the size of a large shepherd but taller, Mr Bumble. He was gorgeous, so gentle and easy to walk.

I often have favourites, and as one goes off to their amazing new life, there is always another dog to become fond of. My current favourite is Nina, who is still awaiting a forever home. She came in via the Inspectorate and sadly didn’t have the best start in life, but you wouldn’t know it. She’s a beautiful, loving girl who enjoys a tennis ball and snuggling up on the sofa. I can’t understand why she’s not found a home yet!

And finally, there have been the dogs I’ve rehomed from Southridge myself, including 10-year-old blind cocker spaniel, Whisky, who was brilliant and was great friends with our springer spaniel.

What do you think is the most pressing issue for animals today?

I do wonder how wildlife is coping with our ever-increasing demand for land and resources which is putting pressure on their habitats and is causing problems in many parts of the world.?

I am also concerned about the abused animals the RSPCA rescues, including one of my spaniels who was used for breeding and then kicked out and left in a dreadful state. Thankfully she's fine now and rules our house, but it’s heartbreaking to think of all the others who haven’t got the help they need yet. Then there are those dogs who are forced to fight by their awful owners, but thankfully the RSPCA’s Special Operations Unit are there to put a stop to them too.

What advice would you give to people thinking about volunteering with us?

I would say if you love animals and want to help unloved pets then do it, as you will get so much out of it. It’s not only the satisfaction of knowing you’re making a difference to that animal, but with dog walking, I have met like-minded people who are great, friendly folk, and it helps to keep me fit!

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

It’s upsetting to think of dogs who staff have had no decision but to say goodbye to. I often think of a dog named Chicco who was identified by a dog legislation officer as a banned type and couldn’t legally be rehomed by the centre. It’s heartbreaking for us volunteers and for the staff who spend so much time with these animals, and I’m glad the RSPCA is campaigning for an end to Breed Specific Legislation for dogs like him.?

I would like to thank the staff for all the love they give the animals and the effort they put into making them safe and well.

Two hundred years ago, a group of people met in a London coffee shop, determined to change animals’ lives for the better. That goal has been the beating heart of the RSPCA ever since. Find out more about our history and join our Million-Strong Movement for every kind today!