Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do at RSPCA Hull & East Riding, bringing dedication, kindness, and passion to help animals in need. In this Meet the Volunteer feature, we’re shining a spotlight on Emma, who has embraced every aspect of volunteering—from vet runs to event planning and even dressing up as a Christmas elf!
Read on to discover what a day in their life looks like, their most memorable moments, and why they believe volunteering at RSPCA Hull & East Riding is so rewarding.
Can you tell me about your day-to-day at the RSPCA Hull and East Riding?
The best part about my days at RSPCA is that every day is so different and I love that. I could be on the reception, doing a vet run, in the Cattery, walking the dogs, giving talks to schools about the amazing work we all do, getting creative and decorating for events or even dressing up as a Christmas elf for the day!
What initially inspired you to volunteer with the RSPCA Hull and East Riding, and how has your experience evolved since you started?
Being completely honest I was Inspired by the animal care manager, Carina (honestly, she did not pay me to say that). Our children go to school together and I would have a quick chat on the way to school and love to hear about the work they all do and how hard she works. My initial role was in the Cattery but this has evolved to a bit of everything really. I assist in the planning and running of the events we hold at the centre, support the managers in general office and admin tasks, carry out the vet runs for the animals, or even attend sessions at schools to talk about the RSPCA Hull & East Riding and even take a few furry friends with me to say hello. The beauty of volunteering is that there is so many different aspects of it and is so rewarding.
Have there been any memorable moments or funny stories from your time volunteering that stand out to you?
Yes, most defiantly, it was on my very first vet run on my own when I was taking quite a few different animals Including 2 quite large dogs. I felt relaxed and knew what needed to be done, till I arrived at the vets and open the van doors to be greeted by a lovely aroma and a large white dog who let’s say was not white anymore. It was so pleased to see me and gave me plenty of kisses and shared his gift all over me, my clothes and the wall in the vets! This was one vet run I won’t forget in a hurry and still laugh about to this day!
What has been the most challenging event or task you’ve worked on, and what did you learn from that experience?
A saying I use a lot is i love a challenge and finding a solution but there are times when you can’t do this. Whilst doing vet runs there is times when you have to say goodbye to an animal and this can be very hard but I take comfort in the fact that it would have had the best care and attention from us despite its history and reason why it came to us even if it is a short stay. This is the part that is hard but I drive back and see all the other amazing animals that we can help and give them all a better life in a new home and feel proud to of been part of their happy ever after.
What advice would you give to someone looking to volunteer in a similar role?
It’s a cliche I know, but just do it! The team here at RSPCA Hull and East Riding and all the shops and distribution centre are absolutely amazing. They are so kind, caring and appreciative of all the work we do. This really stands out to me and makes me feel so valued and part of such an amazing team. I actually call my days in the centre therapy as my normal job is working in a circus which can be quite a challenge so my days in the centre, I turn off my phone and enjoy the power of animals and the power of volunteering. No matter how little or how much time you can spare you will always be welcomed and appreciated by everyone.
Thank you, Emma, for being such an integral part of our team!
Kick start your journey with us today by completing an application form below, and become part of the RSPCA Hull and East Riding team – for more information click HERE.
