Elderly Man Snuggles Rescued Animals in Memory of Deceased Son
Animals have an innate ability to perceive our needs both emotionally and physically. That is why so many people turn to them for emotional and physical support.
Some people do everything in their power to try to return the favor. Dwight Raines is one of those people.
He spends his free time volunteering at the Humane Society of Tampa Bay.
He mainly serves as a “surgery snuggler,” spending his time with animals who have recently been spayed or neutered. He also helps out with anything else that needs to be done.
“You know you’re doing something special for animals who don’t have a voice. That’s the most important thing.
I know on days that I come here, I’m excited,” said Raines. “There has to be something meaningful. There has to be a reason for getting up in the morning.”
Dwight was inspired to start volunteering there by his son, Ryan, who died from a seizure disorder at the age of 31 in 2009. Dwight has been spending his time there ever since.
Ryan had a huge heart for dogs. By volunteering, Dwight is able to continue his son’s passion.
A gazebo was also built on the Humane Society of Tampa Bay’s campus to honor Ryan. Now anyone who visits will see it as well.
For Dwight, it’s also a chance to heal. “What those dogs give us is more than we can ever give back to them. Just being here is a healing process,” Dwight told Fox 11.
Just knowing that he is going to snuggle with sweet pups, brightens his entire day. It something he’s extremely passionate about.
The Human Society heavily relies on their volunteers. On their website, they state that the time donated by their volunteers is “absolutely essential to the fulfillment of our mission.”
Check out your local Humane Society to see how you can volunteer! It’s definitely a gift that keeps on giving.
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