Volunteer Spotlight: Andi Allender
- Sarah Haag
- 7 days ago
- 4 min read
This month, we are thrilled to recognize Andi Allender as P.A.W.S. Hancock’s Volunteer of the Month. Since joining our team in November 2023, Andi has become an invaluable part of our organization, taking on multiple roles and going above and beyond to care for the animals in need. From fostering small critters to writing blog posts, Andi has shown unwavering dedication to the mission of P.A.W.S., and we are honored to celebrate her contributions.
Background and Motivation
Andi’s journey with P.A.W.S. began when a friend suggested she volunteer, and it’s clear that it was a great fit. “I grew up with more animals than you can count,” Andi shared, “from cats and dogs to bunnies, rats, and snakes.” With a deep love for animals and a heart eager to help, she began volunteering with our rescue and quickly immersed herself in various roles. Currently, Andi serves as our small critter foster lead, overseeing the care and placement of rabbits and guinea pigs. She also has experience running the cattery and regularly writes engaging articles for our blog.
As a pet owner herself, Andi is no stranger to the joys of companionship. She shares her home with Miss Piggy, her beloved dog, and even had a memorable experience during our 2024 Photos with Santa event, where Miss Piggy stole the show.
Role and Responsibilities
On a typical day, Andi’s responsibilities start with caring for the bunnies and guinea pigs in her care. She ensures their living spaces are clean, provides fresh hay, leafy greens, and water, and spends time socializing them to ensure they’re comfortable with people. Andi also screens potential fosters and adopters, making sure that each animal finds the right home. Her nurturing approach and love for the small critters make her an ideal foster lead, and she’s always ready to offer advice and support to new adopters.
“My passion is definitely the bunnies and guinea pigs,” Andi said. “I adore watching them become friendly and social, and it’s so rewarding when they go to their forever homes.”
Memorable Moments and Challenges
One of Andi’s most memorable experiences involves her work with Smoky and Diamond, two rabbits who were clearly neglected before coming to P.A.W.S. “When I first got Smoky and Diamond, they were terrified. They would scream if I was even in the same room,” Andi recalled. “Now, they take treats from my hand, and I can handle them for nail trims and socialization.” Seeing these rabbits learn to trust her, and later her husband, was a powerful experience, and Andi even found a personal lesson in their transformation. “Watching them, I learned to start treating myself like a scared rabbit,” she said. “I have some trauma myself that I hadn’t healed from. Being cautious and gentle with myself has helped me heal too.”
There was also the challenge of Houdini, a bunny who came close to becoming Andi’s forever pet. “He was basically the perfect rabbit,” she said with a smile. Although Andi didn’t adopt Houdini, her bond with him and all the animals she cares for speaks to the deep connection she has with each one.
Personal Impact and Lessons Learned
Volunteering at P.A.W.S. has had a profound impact on Andi’s life. “I’ve gained so much compassion and empathy for both animals and people,” she reflected. “I try to remember that most of the time, someone surrendering an animal is having the worst day of their life. My motto is to handle both the animals and people with care.”
Through her work, Andi has also learned valuable lessons about animal care, especially when it comes to rabbits and guinea pigs. “Having them as a kid is totally different from having them as an adult,” she explained. “I’ve learned so much about their behavior and needs, and I’m always eager to share that knowledge with others.”
Advice and Encouragement
When asked for advice for others interested in volunteering, Andi shared, “Be patient, and try not to judge people. Not all people who are surrendering animals are bad. Most are just human, just like you and me.”
Staying positive, even on tough days, can be challenging, but Andi finds comfort in the simple joys of caring for her animals. “Bunnies will fix just about anything,” she said. “Fluffy cuddles and pets are the best!”
Andi also believes that having a heart for animals and strong people skills are essential for working in animal rescue.
Closing Thoughts and Future Goals
Looking ahead, Andi has a clear vision for the future. “I’d love to see P.A.W.S. eventually get its own shelter,” she said. Andi also hopes that animal care, like spay and neuter, will become more common and accessible for everyone.
Her ultimate message to the community is simple but powerful: “If you're going to save an animal, there's no better moment than now. Whether it's adoption, fostering, volunteering, or donating, you are in a unique position to make an animal's life better.”
We are incredibly grateful for Andi’s contributions to P.A.W.S. Hancock. Her passion, dedication, and compassion are an inspiration to us all. Thank you, Andi, for everything you do!
If you would like to volunteer with P.A.W.S., click below to fill out an application!
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