Kate Steinberg, a content creator and animal advocate, shares what drew her to shelter volunteering and what she’s learned about adopting and supporting rescue dogs.
What first inspired you to get into animal rescue and adoption?
I’m actually the ultimate cat lady. Although I only grew up with cats, I’ve always wanted a dog, and when I moved to California in 2023, we adopted our first rescue dog, Mike. After adopting Mike, I started to learn about shelters and how overcrowded they are. So many dogs are dumped in deserts and surrendered, so I started volunteering, and that’s truly when I fell in love with learning the ins and outs of the shelter. Now it’s become such a passion and the thing that brings me the most joy.
What surprised you the most when you first started working closely with rescue organizations?
I think I romanticized a lot about what a shelter is, and I didn’t realize how much work goes into it. Each dog comes in with a different background, and it’s truly amazing the dedication the shelter staff has. It takes a lot of patience and time to get these dogs back to the state they need to be in for adoption. I also didn’t realize how much money shelters need to run. Think of all the supplies and space you need for your own pet, and multiply that by hundreds of animals. Shelters do the best they can, but they could always use more help.
What do you think is one of the biggest things that people should consider when adopting a pet?
Everybody’s waiting for the perfect moment to get a dog, but that perfect moment doesn’t exist! Of course, you have to have the time and patience when you adopt a dog, but their personalities can change when they come home, so you have to adapt. A lot of dogs are stressed in the shelter, so you’ll find a completely different dog by the time they get to their new home and acclimate. I always compare dogs to people: If you need help, you can get therapy or go to the doctor’s office. Dogs need a bit of extra help when they arrive at their new home, but it’s totally worth it to help them get back on track.
What are some tips that you have for pet owners who are considering adding another rescue into the mix?
Make sure you have the space. I have two cats and two dogs, and as much as I would love to add more, I have to be realistic. You don’t know how everyone’s going to get along, so make sure you have the proper space and that you have the time to facilitate that. Having a trainer, vet, and dog sitter in your area is also a great way to make sure a backup plan is in place. Finally, it’s sad but important to mention: Just in case it doesn’t work out, make sure you bring your pet back to a shelter. It’s really surprising to see how many people either dump their dogs on the street or give them to a friend who’s not able to take care of them.
What’s one of the biggest misconceptions that you’ve encountered about rescuing?
Shelter dogs have so much love to give, and a lot of comments I get online say, “Well, those dogs have behavioral issues; they deserve to be in a shelter!” You don’t know their background, and from what I’ve seen, when a dog gets out of their cage, their personality really comes out. I think if people were able to just give those dogs a chance, they’d see that all they want to do is be loved. Sure, it’s easy to go to a breeder and get the dog you’ve always dreamed of, but the dog of your dreams can also be at a shelter; you just have to take a look.
What are some of the biggest benefits you’ve received from adopting?
As someone who’s on social media all day, volunteering is such an escape from my phone that allows me to be present and give my time to animals in need. I have a lot of mental health struggles, and animals can feel your emotions and help with emotional support in times of need. They’re the thing I most look forward to when I have a bad day, whether they’re my loved pets at home or at the shelter. Overall, helping animals feels so much greater than me; it feels like it’s become my purpose in life.
