Retiree earns round of ‘appaws’ from Dogs Trust Shrewsbury during Volunteers’ Week

A Shrewsbury retiree who turned her love of dogs into a rewarding volunteering role is being celebrated by Dogs Trust as part of this year’s Volunteers’ Week.

Julie Kydd, who took early retirement in February 2025, is receiving a special round of “appaws” from staff and fellow volunteers for her dedication to helping homeless dogs at the rehoming centre.

Volunteers’ Week, which runs from June 1 to 7, is an annual UK-wide campaign recognising the contribution made by millions of volunteers across the country.

Since joining Dogs Trust Shrewsbury earlier this year, Julie has become a familiar face at the centre, taking on a wide range of responsibilities including kennel care, dog walking, administration, adoption application calls and reception duties.

However, it is the time she spends with the dogs that she enjoys most.

Julie said: “I spend time with them on an individual basis with walks, games, cuddles and belly rubs. I love being a part of a team where we all work towards the same goal to make every dog’s stay as positive as possible.

“Some of the dogs that arrive at the centre come carrying fear, anxiety or nervousness from their past. Watching the centre team and fellow volunteers gently work with those dogs, helping them settle, build confidence and learn to trust again is so rewarding and special.”

Dogs Trust relies on more than 3,600 volunteers nationwide, helping the charity care for over 11,000 dogs every year.

Helen Downing, volunteer coordinator at Dogs Trust Shrewsbury, said: “We’re so lucky to have Julie with us at Shrewsbury. Her enthusiasm is infectious, her way with the dogs is instinctive, and she never shies away from a task.

“Julie is always the first to step in whenever she knows a team is short-staffed. She happily changes her plans and jumps from role to role wherever she is needed most.”

Helen added that the charity is always keen to hear from people interested in joining its volunteer team, offering opportunities to gain new skills, meet new people and make a difference to the lives of dogs awaiting new homes.

Dogs Trust is the UK’s largest dog welfare charity and operates 22 rehoming centres across the UK, including its centre in Shrewsbury.