Deborah Barnes has been a volunteer at the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter for 19 years.
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"I've always had a passion for companion animals," Deborah said.
Deborah became a member of the Friends of Wingecarribee Animal Shelter in 2015.
She has been president of the organisation for the past two years.
"Volunteering has been a great joy in my life," Deborah said.
"I love volunteering my time."
The dedicated animal lover said visiting the animals and seeing them find a home makes all the effort worthwhile.
Deborah dedicates upwards of four hours a day to help fur-babies in the region find forever homes.
"There is a lot of paperwork to be done behind the scenes," Deborah said.
"FOWAS wouldn't run without the volunteers.
"They are all animal enthusiasts."
Seven volunteers make up the group which includes two accountants, one lawyer, one dog trainer and a retiree.
All members have a different part to play.
"It is difficult to find time to help the community with the pressures of work and family," Deborah said.
"A lot of people in the area don't have time to volunteer but they make donations of food, blankets and other items instead."
Every morning volunteers at FOWAS and the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter get up early and dedicate their time to four-legged friends in need.
"There is no shortage of volunteers," Deborah said.
The first to arrive are the dog walkers.
At 8:30am rain, hail or shine, dedicated animal lovers take the dogs at the shelter for a walk.
The cat-cuddlers then come in at 10:30am.
With arms ready to hold and hands ready to pat, the volunteers come in daily to cuddle and feed the kitties.
"The best thing is being able to see the animals enjoy the time they have with us," Deborah said.
"And then to see them find a home.
"That's why we do what we do,"
A morning tea is held every year to celebrate the volunteers at FOWAS.
The organisation is always looking for more help.
Visit www.fowas.org.au for more information.
Call 4868 1520 to contact the Wingecarribee Animal Shelter or visit 177 Berrima Road, Moss Vale.
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