A Q&A with Amazing Angela
Angela Swan is just one of the fantastic team of Vet Team Volunteers here at Ten Lives. When not helping care for the kitties at the shelter, she is also caring for our kitties in her home as a foster carer and has been part of the Richmond Project.
How long have you been volunteering with Ten Lives and what role do you volunteer in?
Approximately 2 and a half years as a Vet room assistant.
Why did you decide to volunteer with Ten Lives?
I wanted another aspect to my life. Something a little different from my usual work and family routine. I like to be busy and have a great love for animals, so Ten Lives became my new interest.
When I’m not at Ten Lives I’m normally…
I own and operate a cafe, a B&B and have 4 children, so I am working and running around all over the place.
What do you do in a typical day of volunteering here?
I volunteer in the vet surgery, assisting with pre and post surgical care of cats and kittens as well as helping to ensure that instruments and drapes are sterilised and the surgery is clean and well stocked.
What surprised you most about volunteering with Ten Lives?
The variety of roles that are available for volunteers and the vision and future plan that Ten Lives has as an organisation.
Favourite fictional cat?
I only like real ones!
What would you tell someone who was thinking about adopting a cat?
There is a cat to suit every human. They are all different and great comfort when you find the special one to suit you.
Finally, what advice would you give to volunteers just starting out at Ten Lives?
Don’t over commit yourself at the start. Start off with the amount of shifts that are achievable for you longer term. Volunteers work hard. It is rewarding and interesting work that can give you the opportunity to learn new skills and meet some fantastic new people. If you love animal welfare, then there are many ways to help in this organisation.
With nearly 500 people offering their valuable time to us, Ten Lives really is a volunteer-driven organisation. It’s a diverse group and range of talents – including artists, musicians, nurses, engineers, retirees and students – who come from all corners of the world. They volunteer right across the organisation in many roles either directly at the Centre, at one of our Op Shops, or in a foster care role. We are so fortunate to enjoy this support from such an outstanding group of people. They really are the life-blood of Ten Lives!
Do you want to be a part of something truly amazing?
Visit our website for the full range of available positions here.
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Ten Lives cares for thousands of cats every year. We rely on support from people just like you continue to provide care to cats in need.
What you can do to help…
Open your heart and home to become a foster carer.
Bring your skills to Ten Lives and become a volunteer.
Check out our current cats and kittens awaiting adoption.
Support us by making a donation to the centre.