“Yeah, it definitely is. So,” Tess said, “Kelsey, our volunteer coordinator, is out of town this weekend. But we’ve got a name tag ready, and you get to pick out a shirt. There’re a few forms to sign as well. And I know you want some time with the pointer, but Megan said you’d be open to doing other things too.”

“Absolutely.”

“Dogs or cats?”

Olivia shrugged as she followed Tess over to the main counter. “I’m a bit more partial to dogs, but cats are great. Just put me where help is needed most.”

Tess fished through a stack of folders until she found the one she was looking for. Inside were Olivia’s application and a handful of additional forms. “Sorry, but we can’t escape getting your signature enough times to give you a hand cramp. Legalese and all.”

“Not a problem.”

Tess gave her a rundown on where to sign and summarized the volunteer work that was most needed as Olivia signed the papers.

“The shelter’s one of those places where the work is never completely done, but you get used to it. We have a list of big, special projects, monthly projects, weekly projects, and daily ones. Most of our focus goes to what needs to be accomplished every day. And we’re building a good list of volunteers who like to help with special projects like construction and stuff, but the truth is, the dogs can never get enough attention or training. The more they have, the better they act, and the easier it is to get them adopted. Sometimes they come in with a mess of bad manners and a lack of training. You said you grew up on a farm? I’m guessing you’re pretty good with dogs then?”

Suddenly it occurred to Olivia how not well versed with dogs she actually was. “You know, I’ve been around dogs my whole life and have never really thought about it before, but it was my grandparents’ land. The dogs had free roam of the farm, so they didn’t need leashes, and my grandpa has always been the one to do all their training, so honestly, a bit less than you might think. I’m a quick learner, though, and I’m comfortable around dogs of all sizes and breeds.”

Tess nodded encouragingly. “If you’re comfortable around dogs, then the rest will fall into place. We have a basic-training-and-care video series on our website. It may be helpful to check that out if you have time. Until then, one of the staff will show you what we ask of the dogs while working with them.”

“That sounds great.”