April 4th Program

Kathleen Olson: Animal Welfare In Action

Kathleen Olson has been in animal welfare since 1998, starting with the Point Defiance Zoological Society in Tacoma for 8 years, then as Director of the Humane Society for Tacoma and Pierce County for 10 years. She moved to Arlington in December 2017 when she joined Purrfect Pals as Executive Director. She has been a Rotarian since July 1994 and served as Tacoma #8 Club President 2004-2005. She has been a certified Animal Rescue Volunteer with the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) for five years, deploying eight times to date to care for rescued dogs and cats at the HSUS Rehabilitation Center in Maryland. She is a member of the Rotary Club of Arlington. Her classification is Animal Welfare.
 
Our special guest and weekly program speaker was our very own, Kathleen Olson, Assistant District Governor Area J and District Governor Nominee Designate, who shared insights on "Animal Welfare In Action."

During her presentation, Kathleen discussed her role as a volunteer on the Animal Rescue Team of The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS). She emphasized the critical work of the HSUS in ending suffering for all animals, particularly those facing cruelty, neglect, or impacted by natural disasters. Kathleen highlighted the collaboration with the HSUS Animal Rescue team, which focuses on saving animals in distress and providing ongoing care, including safe handling, feeding, and enrichment.

One of the key aspects of their approach is using "Fear Free" methods to help animals relax and build trust with humans, ensuring they are better prepared for adoption. These animals stay at the center for as long as necessary to make progress towards adoption readiness.

Volunteering with organizations like the HSUS requires individuals to be at least 18 years old, meet essential capabilities requirements for working with dogs and cats, pass a criminal background check, and complete training programs such as Fear Free Sheltering Training and FEMA Disaster Training. Kathleen highlighted the importance of volunteerism in animal welfare and encouraged those interested to seek out opportunities for involvement.

Additionally, Kathleen underscored the vital role played by various animal rescue organizations in Snohomish and Skagit Counties, including the Everett Animal Services Municipal Shelter, NOAH Animal Adoption Center and Spay & Neuter Clinic, Pasado's Safe Haven, Progressive Animal Welfare Society (PAWS), Sarvey Wildlife Center, Humane Society of Skagit Valley, and Purrfect Pals Cat Adoption Centers.

Kathleen's dedication to animal welfare and her extensive experience in the field was on display, inspiring our members to consider their role in advocating for and supporting animals in need within their communities.