Deposit services manager Natalie Canadeo with a tuckered-out buddy during a volunteer shift at Elmbrook Humane Society.

Volunteering isn’t most folks’ idea of paradise, but deposit services manager Natalie Canadeo describes Elmbrook Humane Society, where she spends a few hours helping out every weekend, as “puppy heaven.” You can judge for yourself from the photos here, all taken by Natalie, as to whether her assessment is accurate.

Wagfest volunteers needed!
EBHS’s 12th annual Wagfest will take place on Saturday, September 7, at Mitchell Park in Brookfield. (See our coverage of last year’s fest here.) The bank is a sponsor of the event — if you’re interested in volunteering at North Shore Bank’s Wagfest booth, email district manager Cristen Baumann.

To get everybody in the right mind-set for EBHS’s 12th annual Wagfest on September 7, Natalie spoke with Shorelines about her volunteer work for the shelter.

How long have you been volunteering with Elmbrook Humane Society, and why did you choose them?
Since October 2016. I was most familiar with them and their great reputation — EBHS is a no-kill shelter, and they care for dogs, cats, and various small animals. North Shore and EBHS also have a strong relationship.

How much time do you spend there, and what are your duties as a volunteer?
I spend two to four hours each weekend primarily walking dogs — making sure they get plenty of exercise, fresh air, and socialization. I also facilitate enrichment activities to keep the canines busy. The mental stimulation helps the dogs get their minds off their environment, since it can be stressful and scary for some.

And I take photographs of the dogs for fun. It’s always a thrill when the shelter uses one of my photos for their sites, which they do often!

Do you have puppies yourself?
The closest I’ve come was last year, when I assisted someone fostering a dog with newborn puppies. Several evenings after work, I would visit the foster mom, Susan, and mama dog Corinna and her nine gorgeous puppies! It was such a fun experience, and “puppy attacks” are awesome! They just want to climb all over you and play all day.

Does EBHS need volunteers, and what should a potential volunteer know?
EBHS would love more volunteers! There’s something for everyone, from animal socializing to housekeeping and maintenance to customer care. There’s information on their website. A donation to the facility is a great way to help as well.

Wherever one’s talents lie, that is what they need. And you really must possess a passion for helping animals.