M Hello everyone!  My name is Avery Magill and I am currently a senior at Lakeside High School.  As the end of the year approaches I will soon be graduating. For my senior project I was fortunate enough to be able to volunteer alongside Dr. Kat Ellis, the President of Hands to Paws.  Hands to Paws is an incredible non-profit organization focused on rescuing, fostering and rehoming dogs.  My overall goal was to gain a better understanding of what it entails to work in this specific field, and I was left shocked.  I had absolutely no idea how much work was put into saving these little guys' lives, but I definitely have a greater appreciation now for any and everyone who is involved with these efforts.  I was able to tag along with Dr. Ellis for a few days and I met many precious furry friends! A lot of these dogs were shy (which is to be expected,) however many of them were very playful!  They all had one thing in common though.  They just wanted/needed some love and playtime.  Hearing about some of their stories shattered my heart.  I truly do not understand how some people are able to treat animals so poorly.   However, it is thanks to many amazing people like Dr. Ellis that they get a second chance at a happy healthy life.  I absolutely loved seeing people come together in order to help them.  It is that type of kindness that really changes lives.  If you or anyone you know has the time, please check out Hands to Paws.  The organization is so friendly and welcoming and will stop at nothing to get you matched with a fur baby you will fall in love with.  My overall experience went extremely well and I was able to learn and participate so much.  Thank you for taking the time to read my story.