Why Heartland? My dad was a veterinarian, and he shared his passion of caring for people
through their animals. I am a social worker, not a vet, but volunteering at Heartland is a
little bit of both.

What do you love the most about volunteering? Walking in and being among these incredible creatures. It takes you out of your world and life for a minute (or a three-hour shift) and changes your perspective. Each animal has such a distinct personality, story and journey of how they came to us. (Sarah also appreciates the vegan resources we share each week via email.)

Favorite Heartland Animal? That isn’t a fair question — they are all so unique in their own way. From the newest adorable Breakfast Club, cuddly Murphy and Truffle, amazing-sounding emus, sibs Justice and Libby…but as a lifelong swimmer, I have always been drawn to the ducks. I always take a minute to watch them jump into the pool for the first time in the morning, as they dunk their heads and splash in the water.

When pushed a little, Sarah acknowledged Hank as her favorite. While I love everyone there to my core, Hank has a special place in my heart. When I found out about his story and how he was neglected and abandoned twice, I made him a promise that I was going to be his friend. It took some time for him to fully trust me. I knew that we reached the point of mutual trust when I sat down with him outside in the pasture and he leaned up against me and laid down.

Outside of Heartland: I love cycling, walking my dogs, cooking, traveling, hiking, yoga and swimming.