Volunteering is a powerful way to find purpose, bring about positive change, and grow personally. Andrea Tromberg of Tromberg Morris & Partners reviews her journey and experiences to showcase the profound benefits of volunteering, particularly in the context of her work at the Tri-County Humane Society.
Discovering a New Path
When Andrea Tromberg first walked through the doors of the Tri-County Humane Society six years ago, she had a simple goal: to hang out and walk the dogs. Little did she know that this hobby would transform into a profound journey of learning, growth, and connection. Working with the dogs at the shelter has taught her more than she ever imagined and has become a central part of her life, shaping her into a more patient, compassionate, and understanding person.
The Reality of Shelter Dogs
Initially, Andrea Tromberg of Tromberg Morris & Partners thought her time at the shelter would be filled with joyful moments with dogs happily wagging their tails, eager for a walk or a game of fetch. However, she quickly realized that many shelter dogs do not behave like the pets we know at home. These dogs often come from the streets or neglected environments and lack the basic socialization and trust that house pets enjoy. They might not respond to affection, walk easily on a leash, or know how to play with a ball. Instead, they can often be aggressive, displaying their teeth or growling when approached, flailing and pulling on a leash, and showing no signs of emotion.
These dogs also often display signs of past traumas, such as missing fur, visible scars, or untreated injuries. Many do not look "cute" in the conventional sense, which can be off-putting for potential adopters. This reality can be disheartening and is a significant barrier to these dogs finding forever homes. Despite their tough exteriors and challenging behaviors, these dogs have a deep capacity for love and companionship once they learn to trust again.
Overcoming Fear and Building Trust
There were times when Tromberg felt intimidated, especially with larger, more fearful dogs. Entering a kennel with an 80-pound dog who growls or barks can be scary. She learned that hiding her fear and sitting quietly, avoiding direct eye contact, often helped disarm their anxiety. Each dog has its own story, and many have touched her heart deeply.
Take Juno, for instance, a large pittie dog who initially made Tromberg's heart race with fear whenever she approached her kennel. Skittish to enter her run, it took several weeks of working with her, sitting together, short walks with her pulling on her leash, and even a few growls, to see any change. The moment Juno placed her paw on Tromberg's lap, it was an emotional, heartwarming experience – she had overcome her fear, just as Tromberg had overcome her own, and together they had forged a bond of trust and understanding.
Then there is Kiara, who has been at the shelter for over a year; she often hides and shakes whenever someone approaches. Slowly, she has begun to recognize Tromberg and even run up for a hug during her visits. Bingo, always excited to see her, remains a mystery as to why he hasn’t been adopted. Tromberg works with him routinely playing catch and showing him how to sit, hoping that someone will see the wonderful companion he could be. Dogs like Penelope, Kimi, Benito, and Roxy have spent months in the shelter, waiting for someone to notice them. And then there’s Preston, like others, who found a home only to be returned because the new owner lacked the patience and understanding needed to take care of a rescued dog. These stories break Tromberg's heart, but they also fuel her commitment to these animals.
Transforming Lives and Personal Growth
Despite these challenges, or perhaps because of them, Tromberg found working with these dogs incredibly rewarding. It became a personal mission to help them learn how to “dog” – to trust, to play, and to interact positively with humans. Patience and a soothing voice became her tools. When a dog that initially cowered in the corner starts to relax and eventually snuggle, the sense of accomplishment is unparalleled. These moments make all the effort worthwhile.
Volunteering at the shelter has become more than just a hobby; it’s a purpose. Tromberg learned that giving these dogs a chance to experience love and companionship is incredibly fulfilling. The hope that her efforts might help a dog find a loving home keeps her coming back. This work has not only enriched her life but has also provided these animals with the opportunity to be loved and to love in return. A dog’s love is pure and innocent, and helping these animals has given her back far more than she could have ever anticipated.
The process of working with these dogs requires Tromberg to be present and mindful, putting aside the stresses of the outside world. She’s learned to put her cell phone down and fully engage in the moment, even if it means getting smelly and dirty. The joy and satisfaction she gets from these interactions are profound. Through this experience, she’s grown in ways she didn’t expect. She’s become more patient and understanding. Tromberg is truly thankful for the opportunity to volunteer at the Tri-County Humane Society and recommends it to anyone looking for a rewarding hobby or a meaningful way to spend their time.
Finding Purpose Through Volunteering
People often ask how Tromberg finds the time for it, but she believes that when something is important and rewarding, you make the time. These dogs need her, and she wants to be there for them. The impact of her volunteer work extends beyond the shelter, influencing her outlook on life and her interactions with others. It’s a reminder that patience, kindness, and a little bit of time can make a world of difference.
What started as a simple desire to walk dogs has evolved into a deeply fulfilling endeavor that has enriched her life and the lives of countless dogs at the shelter.. For those looking to make a meaningful difference, Tromberg’s story serves as an inspiring testament to the profound benefits of giving back.
