Six Questions: Deanna Nickels
What is your occupation?
I recently left my occupation of 20 years as a Safety Consultant to pursue a career in dog training. I am currently enrolled in the Animal Behavior College Certification program. My volunteer work at O.C. helped me to find my passion. Along with the certification program I am continuing hands on learning through my O.C. volunteer work and providing enrichment and training to shelter dogs. I also have two young boys that keep me very busy.
How long have you been volunteering, and in what volunteer positions?
I have been volunteering at O.C. for three years as a dog trainer, assisting with dog evaluations and occasionally a dog handler at adoption events.
How did you first learn about Our Companions?
Listening to the Damon Scott show.
What did you find the most surprising about Our Companions?
The team work and dedication that the volunteers use to help create a successful bond between the families and animals. From the first call to the help line, evaluations to help determine the best home environment, case workers placement, training and follow up provides all the elements to successfully welcome a new furry family member into a home.
Do you have pets? What breeds?
The Nickels family shares their home with Mandy a 20 year old calico cat; Dallas, a four-year-old springer beagle mix; Moe, a one-year-old cocker spaniel (rescued from O.C,) and five tropical fish.
What is your favorite thing about Our Companions?
The empowerment and knowledge they provide to their volunteers. The dedication that O.C. staff provides to their volunteers makes it very easy to reciprocate.
Previous Volunteer Spotlight
December 2011 - Anne Llewellyn
November 2011 - Lynda Thornton
October 2011 - Annie Chittenden
September 2011 - Deb Couture
June 2011 - Kathi Peterson
May 2011 - The Natchaug River Young Marines
April 2011 - Caroline Gaetano
March 2011- Carol Noyes
January 2011- Cathy Ferreira
November 2010- Gina Hoag
October 2010 - Helene Kapelewski
August 2010 - Lisa Ireland
May 2010 - Regina Radzicki
April 2010 - Veteran Volunteers
February 2010- Mandy Wieting
December 2009 - Pat McGuiness
October 2009 - Risa Davidson
August 2009 - Deb Soricelli
June 2009 - Henry Petrofsky
March 2009 - Jacquie Roy
Dec 2008 - Gretchen Labau
Sept 2008 Todd Johnston
July 2008 Lyn Garson
May 2008 Daryl Carbone
March 2008 Sue King
Jan 2008 Jon Phillips
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