I have been an animal lover since a very young age! There has always been a dog in my home since I was a baby. As soon as I was old enough, I started looking for ways to help animals in need. I was too young to handle dogs or work in the shelters, but I volunteered at local adoption events back home in Baltimore and loved spending time with the animals. When I went to college, I found another organization that invited local university students to come let the dogs out of their kennels and take them for walks. This was one of my favorite weekend activities and definitely filled the dog-shaped hole in my life.

While I was in college, my parents were told about Lucky Dog animal rescue and they adopted a sweet pup named Penny (formerly known as Penelope). This dog was such an angel and I couldn't believe how lucky they were to find her! She was such a great fit for our family and we were so impressed with the process. After college, I moved to Arlington and knew the first thing I wanted to do was get a Lucky Dog of my own! I went through the pre-approval process and went to a couple of adoption events before meeting (and falling in love with) my dog Poppy. She is truly my soulmate!

One dog was plenty for my fiancé and I to handle, but I found myself wanting to get more involved. I started as an adoption screener for Lucky Dog 2 years ago and very quickly made the transition to Adoption Coordinator. These dogs and cats haven't had the easiest start to life, but I've found that they often have the most love to give. I especially love to advocate for the shy or "second dog required" dogs. They take a little longer to warm up, but it's so rewarding to watch their personalities start to shine.

When the pandemic hit, I was furloughed from my museum job and found myself with a lot more time on my hands. I started fostering and took on more volunteer responsibilities, which kept me busy. I also met a great group of fellow volunteers during one of our virtual happy hours and now these are some of my closest friends! I also officially adopted my second dog, Rosie (a 2nd dog required pup!), and now am very excited to say that I work full time for Lucky Dog! As the Program Manager of Adoptions and Events, I get to keep helping animals find their perfect homes. I'm so thankful to Lucky Dog for my two dogs and the great connections I've made!