If losing weight and learning how to train a dog were among the resolutions you made for yourself for the New Year, here’s a way to accomplish both.

Volunteer at a Sonoma County animal shelter or rescue!

Ah, you knew that was coming. But honestly folks, the most wiry, in shape and happiest people I know are the dog walkers and cat cuddlers who show up every day, sometimes twice a day to socialize the cats and get the dogs out for walks and romps.

Sonoma County Animal Care and Control is hosting several volunteer training sessions in the months to come.

Saturday, January 16 9 to 11 am
Wednesday, February 3 6 to 8 pm
Saturday, February 6 9 to 11 am
Wednesday, March 10 6 to 8 pm
Saturday, March 13 9 to 11 am
Wednesday, April 14 6 to 8 pm
Saturday, April 17 9 to 11 am

Nearly 200 people volunteer at the Sonoma Humane Society and without that extra help, many of the programs it runs, simply could not be held.

At the Healdsburg Animal Shelter volunteers are needed for help with fundraisers and dog walking.

The possibilities are endless…so get out there.