The Nunn’s Volunteer Story

Tracey tells us about her experience volunteering for OSF.

My husband Adrian and I began volunteering for Our Special Friends in January 2020. I had been volunteering with the RSPCA for many years before then. I enjoyed helping people find new pets and bringing them together, but the other side was I sometimes had to take people’s pets away when they were at their lowest, and that I never got used to. I ceased volunteering for the RSPCA and was looking for something to do to help local animals and people.

I cannot really remember how we heard of OSF, but we signed up to be dog walkers and helped a few people during this time. I have lovely memories of some of the dogs and people we have met. Evolution happens, and we became one of the volunteers who fosters animals. We have a summer house and we have used this in the past to take in cats where the owners are having difficulties and need some space to sort out things but not lose their animals because of this. This has proved to be an extremely rewarding time. We have cared for many cats, and we have seen most of them returned successfully to their owners when they have settled whatever crisis is happening. Adi is a diamond as he pitches in and is really hands on with the cats too.

Our Special Friends purchased a Catio, and with a little renovation from my son and his partner, it is now attached to our summer house and provides more space and access to open air for any of our feline residents.

We have met some lovely people during this time and have seen some very tough situations turn around and resolve which is heartwarming and rewarding. We love being part of Our Special Friends because of the ethos of the charity, keeping animals and their owners together is such a vital thing if it is possible. When you have trauma, and all you have left is your pet they become the focus of your support. Then to lose that is the most harrowing thing ever. You are in a situation beyond your control and that pet may be the only stability you have. Having had lots of people (men, women, and children) in my kitchen in the past, sobbing as they have to say goodbye to their pet is awful and I can tell you that from experience. But, knowing that now we can say that when your life is settled you can be reunited with your beloved pet back is the best part.

All the team at the charity are so supportive to us. We can call them anytime and they will help and support. Even on Easter Sunday!!! Our Special Friends are unique in the charity sector locally and we personally are very proud to say we support them and hope to do so for a long time yet.