For Kyle Tremberth, substation operator out of DTE’s Waterford Service Center, volunteering with animals became a way to heal after losing his own beloved dog. Searching for a way to help dogs in need, he found Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control and has already volunteered more than 50 hours of his time.
On a typical visit, Kyle takes dogs to the play yards for fetch, pool time, treats and belly rubs. Those one-on-one moments matter because the kennel room can be loud, hectic and stressful for the dogs.
“It’s really great to get them outside and watch them open up and show their true personalities,” Kyle said.
The experience meant just as much to Kyle as it has to the dogs. He hopes sharing his story helps others see shelter animals differently and consider giving their time, too.
“I think there is an unfair stigma around dogs who have come from abusive environments or that have been picked up as strays,” Kyle said. “They are not damaged. They still have the same capacity for love as any other dog and are often very sweet and affectionate. They all deserve a second chance at love and companionship.”
August is DTE’s annual Month of Caring, a time when employees can give back through volunteer projects that support nonprofits across Michigan. Animal-focused volunteer opportunities can be especially rewarding. Shelters and rescue organizations need help socializing animals, cleaning, sorting donations, supporting events and giving animals the extra attention they need while they wait for their new homes.
Animal volunteer opportunities across Michigan
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Friends of Detroit Animal Care and Control, Detroit: Walk dogs, socialize cats, help with laundry and dishes, create enrichment activities, support on-site and off-site adoption events.
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Michigan Humane, Detroit, Westland and Sterling Heights: Support animal care, shelter operations, pet food distribution, home deliveries, community events and one-time opportunities like Dog Day Getaway.
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Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center, Pontiac: Help keep animals social, exercised and cared for while supporting staff.
- Friends for Animals of Metro Detroit, Dearborn/Melvindale: Dog walking, cat care, fostering, special programs, events and group volunteer opportunities.
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Humane Society of Huron Valley, Ann Arbor: Dog walking, fostering, group volunteer days, family volunteering and community cat support.
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Genesee County Animal Care, Flint: Walk dogs, socialize cats, take photos, help with basic grooming and support housekeeping needs.
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Cascades Humane Society, Jackson: Animal care, dog walking, housekeeping, foster care, special events, maintenance, administrative work, gardening and greeting visitors.
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Capital Area Humane Society, Lansing: Help with dog and cat socialization, dog walking, housekeeping, laundry, foster care, special events, education programs and administrative support.
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All About Animals Rescue, Auburn Hills, Detroit, Flint and Warren: Cleaning, grounds work, fostering, special events and trap-neuter-return education for community cats.
Kyle’s experience shows how a few hours of volunteer time can mean something different for everyone involved. For the dogs, it’s fresh air, exercise, comfort and a chance to show who they really are outside the stress of a shelter kennel. For the person holding the leash, it’s a way to heal, connect and make a visible difference.
“I hope my story helps inspire others, as it’s truly been a healing journey and therapeutic experience for me to be a part of this organization,” Kyle said. “I honestly just wish I had more time so I could help even more. It’s been the most rewarding and fulfilling thing I’ve ever done.”