Cat-Loving Volunteers Have Become Dogs’ Best Friends

By Ara Stamm - 

Patt Seleen and Jeff Johnson (no, not Executive Director Jeff Johnson) began their volunteering journey with Can Do Canines in 2022. A couple for over thirty years, they’d always had cats as pets. However, when their last cat sadly passed away, they began to consider the possibility of owning dogs. Sparked by their friend, board member, and fellow volunteer Connie Roerich’s experiences, they decided to give hosting dogs a try. “Volunteering with Can Do Canines offered the perfect opportunity to test the waters while contributing to a meaningful cause,” Jeff explained. 

They started with a dog named Lester and have gone on to host over thirty dogs, some on multiple occasions. Known to be both flexible and reliable, they’ve been described as “go-to hosts.” They’ve taken dogs on short notice and those who have special requirements. Dogs in their final stages of training also enjoy a nice break from the kennel at their home when needed. “The dogs are obviously the best part,” they said of the volunteering experience. “They are all so smart, lovable, and a pleasure to have around.” 

Of the couple, Puppy Program Coordinator Lindsey Kromann is full of gratitude. “They are always flexible and willing to change their schedule according to the dogs' needs,” she says. “They will even keep a dog for an open-ended amount of time, always willing to host a dog longer if needed.” She added, “They also help with dogs that we need specific feedback on.  They are great communicators and update us on how the dog is doing.” 

That communication is incredibly vital throughout the entire fun and challenging hosting experience. “While most of the dogs are so well trained, there are some occasions when a dog is reluctant to do something or doesn’t understand what is being asked,” they explained. They especially enjoy getting to help these pups overcome their own individual hang-ups. One dog they hosted, Victory, struggled to jump into the car. Creatively, they decided to hang a moving blanket over the rear bumper. This change in perspective gave Victory the confidence to jump right in. They enthuse, “It is fun to try and figure out a way to teach them or work through their hesitancy.” 

There’s no hesitancy, however, from these two to take in any dog. While their journey began with an ending, the cycles of hellos and goodbyes come naturally to Jeff and Patt. “Yes, we miss each one when they leave,” they admit, “but we know another wonderful dog will arrive soon.” They say the process is “bittersweet but underscores the purpose of our volunteer efforts: preparing dogs to change lives.” 

We couldn’t be more grateful for their ready assistance whenever a Can Do Canines dog needs a loving place to go. Their creativity, flexibility, and communication skills make them the cat’s meow.