WAUKESHA, Wis. — The Humane Animal Welfare Society in Waukesha relies on volunteers to help take care of animals. For one volunteer, it’s a passion that’s grown over two decades.
With a heart for animals, HAWS volunteer Dottie Hrenak has been snuggling up with cats for nearly 30 years, hoping to make an impact before they find a new home.
“I love it. Volunteering has been my life,” Hrenak said.
As a cat cuddler, she comes each week to socialize with the cats waiting to be adopted. She is able to pet them, snuggle them, and let their personalities shine outside of their cages.
“I just feel that I gave the cats that are here all I have for two hours. I just leave with a good feeling,” Hrenak said.
She said that feeling that has kept her coming back all these years.
For HAWS volunteer coordinator, Devon Kirkpatrick having someone with dedication like Hrenak is extremely special for their organization.
“Dottie has made a wonderful, a huge impact not only on the animals, but staff members and fellow volunteers. When they hear Dottie on Wednesday morning, they have a smile on their face,” Kirkpatrick said.
Hrenak started volunteering at a young age and still continues to volunteer at nursing homes and hospice locations as well as with HAWS.
She’s now in her 80s and said she has no plans to slow down.
“You could have all the money in the world, but money doesn’t buy you happiness. I believe everyone should volunteer,” Hrenak said.
She has been able to continue to show up each week for nearly 30 years, which makes her one of the longest standing volunteers at HAWS.
She said it means a lot to her and to those she’s leaving an impact on.