Story #14 of 60: A Journey That Started With a Walk
As told by Stephanie Santiago, Adopter, Foster, and Volunteer
In 2017, a few coworkers and I decided to use our volunteer day to help at Anderson Humane. We spent the day cleaning, walking dogs, and assisting wherever possible. At the end of the day, we were invited to spend some time playing with puppies. That is when I met a puppy named Sebastian. He immediately stole my heart, and I just knew he was meant to be part of my life.
Because I had to return to work, I placed a hold on him and came back the very next day with my family. They all fell in love with Sebastian, too, and he came home with us. He has been by my side ever since. Adopting Sebastian marked the beginning of something much bigger than I ever expected. He was my first dog as an adult, and he taught me responsibility, commitment, and how deeply a dog can change your life.
After adopting Sebastian, I became more involved with Anderson Humane as a volunteer. I helped with cleaning kennels, feeding, walking dogs, and supporting daily care. My husband, David, and I then found another way to give back through transport. We love driving, and it felt like a perfect fit. Together, we took several trips to meet rescue partners in Oklahoma and even participated in a Beagle Rescue Transport that took us to Virginia. Along the way, we built friendships and helped make a meaningful difference for Anderson.
Our involvement continued to grow. We volunteered at Mega Adoption events and eventually opened our home to fostering. Over the years, we welcomed several foster dogs. In 2024, I brought home a small foster dog I met at a Mega Adoption event. She bonded instantly with Sebastian, and our family loved having her with us. When it came time to take her to an adoption event, we debated keeping her, but decided to give someone else the opportunity to adopt her.
When I told David that someone was interested in adopting her, he immediately said, “I do not want her with anyone else. She is ours.” That was the moment she became part of our family forever.
Anderson Humane has had a lasting impact on our lives. Today, we continue to volunteer whenever possible, and I also help with Spanish translation and adoption support when asked. This journey has spanned many years, and our role has evolved along the way, but the impact has remained constant.
My story is not unique, but it is important. One day of volunteering can change a dog’s life, support staff and fellow volunteers, and leave a lasting mark on your own heart. Showing up matters more than you may ever realize.
Ready to start your own rescue story?
Meet adoptable animals at Anderson Humane by visiting ahconnects.org/adopt, or help make the next 60 stories possible by donating in honor of our 60th Anniversary.
Interested in becoming a Volunteer?
Visit ahconnects.org/volunteer/ for more information on how you can get involved.
Interested in starting your own Foster Journey?
Visit us at ahconnects.org/foster-2/ for more information or email fosters@ahconnects.org
