Nina loved animals more than anything. Every time she passed the animal shelter near her house, she stopped to look at the dogs through the window. One day, she asked her mom, “Can I help take care of them?” Her mom smiled. “That’s a wonderful idea. Let’s sign you up to volunteer.”
On Saturday morning, Nina put on her old sneakers and an apron. She and her mom drove to the Maple Street Animal Shelter. A worker named Carlos met them at the door. “Welcome, Nina! We’re so glad you’re here. There’s a lot to do today,” he said.
First, Carlos showed Nina how to fill the water bowls. She carried a small pitcher and poured fresh water into each one. The puppies wagged their tails and lapped it up. “They were thirsty!” Nina laughed.
Next, Nina helped feed the cats. Carlos showed her how to measure one scoop of food into each bowl. The cats rubbed against her legs and purred. Nina was careful to give every cat the same amount.
After lunch, Nina got to do her favorite job: walking the dogs. Carlos clipped a leash onto a friendly brown dog named Biscuit. “Hold the leash tightly and walk slowly,” he said.
Nina led Biscuit out to the yard. Biscuit ran in happy circles and pulled Nina along the grass. She laughed the whole time and made sure to keep a good grip on the leash.
By the end of the day, Nina was tired but proud. “You did a great job today,” Carlos said. “Will you come back next week?” Nina nodded right away. “I’ll be here every Saturday!” On the way home, she already couldn’t wait to see Biscuit again.