Kim had recently said goodbye to Roxy, her beloved West Highland Terrier of nearly 17½ years. The loss left an enormous emptiness. She wasn't ready to welcome another dog into her home, but she missed the companionship, affection, and joy that only a dog can bring.

After donating some of Roxy's belongings to HMAS, someone suggested she consider volunteering.

It took Kim two months to work up the courage to visit.

More than a year later, she's a familiar and comforting presence for the shelter's dogs, spending her time walking them, giving them affection, and helping them feel safe while they wait for their forever families.

And along the way, something unexpected happened.

One by one, the dogs she came to know and love began filling the emptiness Roxy had left behind.

Sometimes, Love Looks Like Simply Being There

One of those dogs was Tank.

Tank arrived at HMAS with his brother, Duke. Both were confused by their unfamiliar surroundings. When Duke was adopted, Tank remained behind, waiting for someone to notice him.

As the days passed, Kim could see how the wait was affecting him.

So she made extra time for Tank. They would sit together in the gazebo, listening to Minnesota Twins games while Kim scratched his belly and the big dog settled into her lap.

There was nothing extraordinary about those afternoons. No special training or grand gestures. Just time, patience, and the reassuring presence of someone who cared.

Then one day, a couple came to meet Tank. His big, silly personality shone through, and they fell in love with him. Tank went home with his new family that very day.

The Difference We Make Together

Kim has learned that shelter dogs aren't always the outgoing, happy animals people might expect. Many arrive frightened, uncertain, and struggling to understand why their lives have changed.

Helping them regain their confidence takes patience, understanding, and people willing to see the individual behind the fear.

It's why she believes both donations and volunteer time matter. Financial support helps provide a safe, comfortable temporary home. Volunteers provide something equally meaningful: human connection.

Kim is grateful for the staff and fellow volunteers who care so deeply for HMAS animals. But she's especially thankful for the dogs themselves.

As she puts it, they've helped mend her broken heart while giving her the opportunity to help them find their own happy endings.

Sometimes, giving a second chance means receiving one, too.

Become a Volunteer | Give a Second Chance