The Adventures of Marlene: Goodbye 3months DSPCA Stint ;(

Well my time is done but not over ;)

Can you believe the 3months is up and done, time fly's when your having a good time. I'm back in Vodaland now two weeks and what a difference. No puppies and Kitty's on my desk or under my feet, how will i ever cope. It really was a rewarding and educational time, i recommend everyone does a stint in a charity for 3months if you can or even on a regular basis. The World of difference programme is open to everyone so keep an eye on the site or the facebook page http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/VodafoneIrelandWorldOfDifference for the next application dates.

I learned so much from the people and animals, the Veterinary clinic and boarding kennels are up and running and doing fantastic. The dog park is due to open September, its going to be fantastic with Agility areas for dog training, a pond with waterfall and loads of space. You will need to be a member to get special discounts and an access card to get in, your dog needs to have their kennel cough vaccination so not to risk catching or giving it to another dog. We worked long and hard on education for people looking to surrender and rehome their pets. Its still obviously a daily occurrence for the guys in the centre but hopefully getting better. Kitten season is in full swing and they are out the door with them, anyone looking to foster or rehome should contact the centre directly or email reception@dspca.ie . I had little 'Rocky' a lost kitten for 3weeks, i gave him back Friday to be put up for adoption, man its hard ill be honest with you but at least i gave him a great start in life and now he'll find a fantastic Forever home.

There are so many people to thank for my experience, Vodafone of course for giving me the opportunity all the girls and guys in the DSPCA Shelter and Clinic and a massive thank you to Lori Davis and the girls (Natasha, Suzanne&Jill) in the rehoming office for bringing a huge smile to my face everyday as i went to 'work' or play as i like to call it. I learned so much from my new friends and they've giving me so much to take away. I'm not gone though, I'm continuing to volunteer in the DSPCA so they wont get rid of my that quick. I already miss the lads in the morning welcoming in the door, Buddy, Beckham, Red, Apache, Angel, Mouse ..... the list goes on I'm heartbroken ;( . It has opened my eyes to the world and made me appreciate more what i have, its given me direction in my life and experience. A wonderful worthwhile experience.

As i said I'm continuing to volunteer when i can, i spent Saturday in the DSCPA Veterinary Clinic, an animal hospital pretty much that anyone in the public can register with. There is an emergency service available to registered customers so you have a choice now and again 100% of the profits go back into the shelter, what more could ya want ;) . Loads of gorge pets in yesterday, a lovely pair of 'Cockapoo's ' yes i said it, a mixture between a Cocker Spaniel and a Poodle, very sweet dog and low shed! A little Pomeranian with a broken leg ;( gorgeous little fella. A diabetic kitty called Smudgie, Ozzy the terrier cross, two ickle miniature Jack Russell's and a 2week old kitten OMG the cutest ever. See pics below. The Veterinary world in some description perhaps could be in my future, one will see.

With all that said guys&dolls, it costs over 2million a year to run the shelter with only 4% coming from government support, meaning the rest has to be fundraised. I'm running, jogging, walking then eventually crawling my way through the Flora Woman's Mini Marathon this June bank holiday weekend, please please sponsor me whatever you can. You can either give to me directly or through my charity page http://www.mycharity.ie/event/marlene_linnie_event/ .

Thanks all so much for your support, please continue to read my blog its not over yet I've many more adventures to come ;)