Dogwood Animal Rescue bringing comfort one paw at a time
As part of our Volunteer Appreciation Month series, George Mark Children’s House is honored to recognize Shirley Zindler, co-founder and president of Dogwood Animal Rescue, who has been bringing puppies and kittens to visit our patients, families, and staff for more than two years.
Shirley has spent a lifetime serving others—from animal shelters and horse rescue to feeding the homeless, elder care, and pet therapy. She has a special heart for helping people through life’s most tender transitions.
“I’ve always had a heart for transitions, from birth to hospice, and for offering any comfort I can during those times,” Shirley says. “I cared for my grandmother as she was dying of cancer, and later cared for my husband’s mother, who had dementia, in our home during the last years of her life.”
At George Mark, Shirley has found a place where that compassion can make a difference in the lives of children and families facing serious illness.
What do you find rewarding about volunteering at GMCH?
“Volunteering at George Mark has been one of the most powerful experiences of my life,” Shirley says. “The children are so sweet and appreciative, from the tiniest babies and toddlers to the teenagers who do their best to accept their condition with grace and humor.
“Being able to bring some simple joy in the form of puppies and kittens—and watching the children, their families, and even the staff live fully in the moment with the animals—is priceless.”
Shirley says she is continually inspired by the way George Mark surrounds families with love and support.
“I don’t think I have enough words to say how amazing this program is for patients and their families,” she says. “I’ve watched families wrapped in the care and compassion of the staff as they face what is often the most heartbreaking time in their lives. Whether it is providing end-of-life support or critical respite care, George Mark gives families comfort, dignity, and moments of peace.
“I also love seeing how the staff and volunteers work together to create joy, fulfill last wishes, and make every child and family feel cherished.”
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at GMCH?
“There are so many beautiful memories from my time at George Mark,” Shirley says. “The children we’ve lost are etched in my heart forever.”
One of her most touching memories was spending time with a little girl who passed away only hours after Shirley’s visit.
“She was very weak, and I held her hand in mine to help her stroke the tiny puppy resting on her lap,” Shirley recalls. “I can still feel her warm, soft little hand in mine.”
Another memory, this one filled with joy, took place more recently on a sunny afternoon outside.
“I watched the two-year-old sister of one of our patients running across the lawn, laughing as a litter of puppies chased after her,” Shirley says. “She was carefree and full of energy, and they played together in the sunshine for what felt like hours.
“Nearby, her six-year-old brother sat quietly in his mother’s lap, gently petting a sleeping puppy. He was receiving end-of-life care, and his family’s hearts were heavy. But in that moment, surrounded by sunshine and happy little puppies, his sister found pure joy.
“Her brother has since passed away. That day may one day fade from her memory, but it will live in mine forever.”
At George Mark Children’s House, volunteers like Shirley remind us that sometimes the smallest acts of kindness—a warm hand, a wagging tail, a moment of laughter—can mean everything.
