Mandy Wieting has always been an animal lover.   Her childhood home was what she describes as a “stray cat magnet” and she always had a furry friend to keep her company.   Mandy described herself as a “cat person” until she got her first dog, Sasha Marie, in her twenties. Sasha Marie was a rambunctious little puppy, who kept Mandy laughing even when she ate a hole in the kitchen wall!  Sasha also helped show Mandy the joy and unconditional love that both cats and dogs can bring into your life.  Soon after Mandy joined AWARE, a  group dedicated to helping animals in need.
 
A fund raiser and wine tasting held at a local hair salon introduced Mandy to Our Companions.  She was in awe at the condos that the cats and dogs will be housed in. “It was so great to see them happy and comfortable, instead of in small confining cages while they were waiting for their new parents to find them.”   When she learned of all of the other programs and services that Our Companions offers, she knew she had to be a part of it.  “It is such a wonderful and dedicated group of people that I wanted to tell everyone I knew about Our Companions,” she added.   Mandy, who is a graphic designer with The Reminder News, uses her design skills to support the Poster Program.   She has also helped out in the office when needed, supported the Feral Workshop, and has attended many clean-up days and special events.   Mandy said her reason for helping is the way it makes her feel.  “It gets me excited to get others excited”

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