Story #30: A Pause in the Middle of the Day
As told by Kelly Rakunas, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator at Anderson Humane
The Best Part of My Day
For the last couple of years, my lunch break has been sacred. Every day, without fail, I grab a leash, choose a shelter dog, and head out for a Doggie Day Out. It is the part of my day I look forward to most. No meetings. No emails. Just a dog and an hour outside.
It started as a simple way to give dogs a break from the shelter. Somewhere along the way, it became a grounding ritual that brings balance and clarity to my day.
We usually head to the forest preserve.
On warm days, dogs splash into the river like they have waited their whole lives for that moment. On snowy days, we walk through quiet trails, leaving the first footprints behind us. Everything slows down. The world feels softer.
In those moments, nothing else matters. Not my to-do list. Not the weight of the day. Just the sound of paws on the path and the feeling of being fully present with another living being.
These outings are about more than a walk.
They give dogs space to relax, explore, and experience the world beyond kennel walls. We work on loose leash walking, confidence in new surroundings, and calm reactions to unexpected sights and sounds.
Watching a dog settle in, trust the moment, and open up is powerful. You can almost see the stress melt away. Knowing these experiences help them put their best paw forward for adoption makes every step worth it.
As much as these outings support the dogs, they give something back to me, too.
When my mind feels crowded or my heart feels heavy, an hour in nature with a dog brings me back to myself. I always return to work a little dirty, a little tired, and incredibly grateful.
It reminds me why this work matters so deeply.
Anderson Humane connects people and animals in ways that enrich both lives beyond measure.
I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of an organization whose mission aligns so closely with my heart.
Every day, one dog at a time, one hour at a time, I get to witness how connection changes everything.
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
Want to learn more about our Doggie Day Out Program?
Visit us at ahconnects.org/doggie-day-out/
